Romans chapter 6
Introduction
In chapter 5, Paul explained that where Sin abounded, Grace abounded even more, highlighting Christ’s victory over Sin and death. However, this raises an important question: if Grace exceeds sin, should we continue sinning so that grace may abound even more ? Chapter 6 answers this question by unveiling the radical transformation that comes with Faith in Christ, specifically our union with Him in His death and resurrection.
Summary of the Text
1. Dead to Sin, Alive in Christ (Romans 6:1-14)
Paul begins by firmly rejecting the idea that believers could continue to sin so that grace may abound. He explains that through baptism, we have been united with Christ in His death, and just as He was raised from the dead, we are called to walk in newness of life. Being dead to sin means it no longer has dominion over us. In Christ, we are freed from its power.
2. Slaves to Sin or Slaves to Righteousness ? (6:15-23)
Paul elaborates on the concept of slavery: we are slaves to whatever we obey : either sin, leading to death, or righteousness, leading to eternal life. Through God’s grace, those freed from sin become slaves to righteousness. Paul concludes by reminding us that the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus.
Doctrinal Development
Death to Sin, Life in Christ
The baptism mentioned here symbolizes our identification with Christ’s death and resurrection (v. 4). This transformation, described by Jesus as being « born again » (John 3:3), marks a complete break from our old sinful nature. Paul affirms that believers are no longer under the law but under grace, reflecting the fulfillment of the law through Christ (Matthew 5:17).
Spiritual Slavery
Paul uses the imagery of slavery to describe spiritual commitment. Before Christ, we were slaves to sin (John 8:34). Becoming slaves to righteousness means true freedom, as we submit ourselves to God. This theme is echoed in other epistles: in Galatians 5:1, Paul speaks of freedom in Christ, and in Ephesians 2:10, he highlights that we are created for good works.
Wages of Sin and God’s Gift
The contrast between death and eternal life reflects the constant message of the Gospel. Jesus affirms that those who do not believe will perish (John 3:16), but through Him, we receive eternal life. This free gift, offered by grace, is central to the message of salvation.
Key Verse
Romans 6:23: « For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. »
This verse summarizes the ultimate contrast between the consequences of sin and God’s grace. It highlights both God’s justice and His redemptive love.
Difficult Words Explained
- Baptism (v. 4): A symbolic act of immersion in water representing death to the old life of sin and resurrection to new life in Christ. The image of this act is used to express the work of the Holy Spirit at the moment of the christian conversion : Spirit Baptism.
- Slave (v. 16-18): In this context, it means being fully submitted to an authority. Paul shows that our hearts belong either to sin or to God.
- Righteousness (v. 18): Refers to a life aligned with God’s will, made possible through Faith in Christ.
Reflection Points for Sanctification
- How can I « consider myself dead to sin » (v. 11) in my daily struggles ?
- Am I aware that my daily obedience reveals who I am a « slave » to ?
- What choices can I make to reflect my « newness of life » (v. 4) in Christ ?