Transformed by Truth: Reigning in Life Through Jesus Christ Romans 5:17
Introduction:
Today, we will explore a powerful and transformative passage from the book of Romans. Let’s turn to Romans 5:17 in the New Living Translation:
"For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ."
This passage beautifully encapsulates the gospel's power. Today, we will delve into three key points: The Reign of Death through Adam, The Gift of Grace through Jesus, and Living in Triumph.
1. The Reign of Death through Adam
Paul sets up a contrast between Adam and Christ. Through Adam’s disobedience, sin entered the world, and death followed (Romans 5:12). The Greek word for “death” here is thanatos (???at??), which signifies not just physical death but spiritual separation from God.
Genesis 2:17 (NLT): "Except the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. If you eat its fruit, you are sure to die."
God’s warning to Adam about the consequences of disobedience highlights the gravity of sin.
Romans 3:23 (NLT): "For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard."
Paul reiterates that all humanity is under sin's curse due to Adam’s transgression.
Understanding the depth of sin and its consequences helps us appreciate the magnitude of God’s grace. Recognising our spiritual death apart from Christ is the first step toward embracing His life.
Imagine being lost in a vast desert with no water. Just as the absence of water leads to physical death, the absence of God leads to spiritual death. But there is hope, as we will see in our next point.
2. The Gift of Grace through Jesus
Paul contrasts the reign of death with the surpassing greatness of God’s grace. The Greek word for “grace” is charis (?????), meaning unmerited favour. Through Jesus’ obedience, the gift of righteousness is available to all.
Ephesians 2:8-9 (NLT): "God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can’t take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it."
This passage emphasises that salvation is a gift, not something we can earn.
John 1:16-17 (NLT): "From his abundance we have all received one gracious blessing after another. For the law was given through Moses, but God’s unfailing love and faithfulness came through Jesus Christ."
John highlights the fullness of grace we receive through Christ.
Receiving God’s grace transforms our lives. It’s not just a one-time event but an ongoing relationship with Jesus that empowers us to live righteously.
Think of a prisoner who has been pardoned and set free. The grace extended to him changes his entire life. Similarly, God’s grace not only frees us from sin but empowers us to live victoriously.
3. Living in Triumph
Paul speaks of living in triumph over sin and death through Jesus. The phrase “live in triumph” translates from the Greek basileuo (ßas??e??), meaning to reign or rule as a king. This signifies authority and victory in life through Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:57 (NLT): "But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ."
Paul celebrates the victory believers have through Christ.
2 Corinthians 2:14 (NLT): "But thank God! He has made us his captives and continues to lead us along in Christ’s triumphal procession. Now he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume."
This verse illustrates the victorious life we lead as part of Christ’s triumphal procession.
Living in triumph means embracing our identity in Christ and walking in the authority He gives us. It’s a daily journey of faith, empowered by the Holy Spirit.
Consider a team that has won a championship. They don’t just celebrate the victory once; they live in the joy and reality of that victory every day. Likewise, we are called to live in the ongoing reality of Christ’s victory.
Conclusion and Call to Action:
Through one man, Adam, sin and death entered the world. But through one man, Jesus Christ, grace and righteousness reign. Let us embrace this grace, live in triumph, and reflect His glory in our lives.
Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your grace through Jesus Christ. Help us to live in the triumph and authority You have given us. Empower us by Your Holy Spirit to walk in victory each day. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
As you go forth today, remember that you are more than conquerors through Christ. Embrace His grace, live in His victory, and let your life be a testament to His transformative power. Amen.
