Daily Devotions
Romans
"The free gift... resulted in justification."
Text: Romans 5:16
A STIRRING CONTRAST
Paul was absolutely caught up with the contrast between Adam and Christ. Three powerful points of contrast may be noted:-
1. Adam
a) Sin
Through him sin entered into the world (Romans 5:12)
b) Death
Through sin, death came to all men (Romans 5:12)
c) Wrath and Alienation (enemies) (Romans 5:10)
2. Jesus
a) Answer to Sin
Through Him the answer to the problem of sin was offered (Romans 5:1, 9)
b) Life
Through Christ grace was given, and with that life instead of death (Romans 5:10)
c) Full reconciliation Romans 5:10-11
ANOTHER GLORIOUS POINT OF CONTRAST
Let’s take a look at another wonderful statement of appreciation about the free gift that we have in Christ.
“And the gift is not like that which came through
the one who sinned. For the judgment which came
from one offence resulted in condemnation,
but the free gift which came from many offenses
resulted in justification.”Romans 5:16
Judgment of Condemnation
This was the logical legal result of Adam’s sin! There can be only one conclusion of sin- the judgment of condemnation!
The free gift of Justification
The emphasis of Justification is found in the phrase “free gift”. This word is taken from the Greek “charismata”. The essence of the word “charismata” is found in the root “charis” (“grace”). To Paul, the underpinning theme of the “free gift” is the wonderfully rich concept of God’s grace!