week 13 day 3

read Romans 5

http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=romans%205&version=NIV

5:1–11 The “therefore” of 5:1 indicates that a logical inference is being drawn from the preceding discussion (3:21–4:25). The text of 5:1 may be paraphrased, “Let us keep and enjoy peace with God.” Justification brings peace, not wrath, and is mediated by the Lord (5:1–2). It brings a future hope of glory (5:2). The Greek word translated “rejoice” in 5:2–3, 11 is translated “brag” in Romans 2:17, 23, where the element of self-centered boasting is present. In 5:2–3, 11 the element of self-confidence is removed. The substitute is accepting the mediation achieved “because of” God’s sacrifice.

Even difficulties and hardships exhibit the love of God (5:3–11). Paul made it clear that there was great benefit in trials (5:3–4). Note the relationship of weakness in tribulation and God’s manifested glory through earthen vessels. This removes the validity of any boasting in law-keeping. Another proof of security is the presence of the love and Spirit of God (5:5).

The term “reconciled” means “to change” (5:10–11). Restoration of a relationship with God by the death of Christ means that man’s state of alienation from God is changed so that he is now able to be saved (2 Cor. 5:19).

Adam and Christ

Death in Adam Life in Christ
Sin Righteousness
Condemnation Justification
Death Life

5:12–21 Paul concluded his consideration of justification by faith with an analogy demonstrating that while all men are in fact sinners (in Adam), all are potential beneficiaries of Christ’s death and justification. The links are drawn between Adam and Christ. Paul’s point was that security in Christ is even more secure than damnation in Adam.

Paul showed that even before the law, people died because of Adam’s sin. Adam infected humanity with death. In a greater way Christ injected humanity with life. The human race is directly related to Adam and his sin. The theology of this verse is based on the concept of the corporate solidarity of the human race (cf. Heb. 7:9–10). With or without the law people sinned and died (Rom. 5:12; cf. 3:23). Because of Adam’s disobedience, humanity “became sinners” (5:19; cf. 1 Cor. 15:21). Sin could not be charged as a violation of a specific command where there was no law. But sin existed, nevertheless, before the law was given at Sinai, as was evidenced by universal death from Adam to Moses.

Paul used Adam as a contrast (5:14) between him and Christ, indicating that while he had a place and purpose historically, he was also divinely intended to teach by means of analogy something about Christ. Paul took Genesis 3 and the curse of God on Adam’s sin very seriously. Humanity’s death was rooted in Adam’s sin. Paul used that certain root to compare and contrast with the certain rooting of life in Christ. See the above chart.

The key to seeing everyone sinned (5:12) as meaning “in Adam” is the “before the law” of 5:13. What is it explaining? All are reckoned as sinners by Adam’s one sin. Again, Romans 5:20–21 continues to establish the law (3:31) in its proper perspective.


Discussion question

How should a Christian look upon suffering in the world?

Reflection question

Reflect on verses 3-5 and what examine what enters your heart and mind as you read them?