GRACE TEACHES US NOT TO SIN
READ Romans 6:1-13
As we begin chapter six it is important to note that we are entering into a new section in the book of Romans. Thus far we have focused upon the universal guilt of mankind (for all have sinned), and we also learned that justification is realized by a trusting faith as portrayed in Abraham. Now we enter into a section concerning sanctification. The major truths in Romans 6 are that we now therefore ought not to live in sin. All other thoughts are subordinate to that basic conclusion. Through God’s grace, we have been made righteous before God. Now we need to live that way.
Another key in understanding this chapter is to understand the distinction between our position in Christ (declared righteous) and our practice in Christ (living righteously).
We are going to focus on the first two verses of Romans six this morning.
Romans 6:1-2 "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? 2 God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?"
The preceding chapter concluded with the great truth that though our sin has abounded, God’s grace has abounded even more. Paul, therefore, continues to address the convoluted logic of antagonistic Jewish minds, “Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?” The thought is similar to the modern thought that if we are saved by grace through faith, then we can go out and sin all we want. Or, if our salvation is secure, then we can continue in sin. The reply is, “God forbid” or literally, ‘let it not be’. The phrase, “How shall we that are dead to sin, live any longer therein.” Later in this chapter, we read, "Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. 7 For he that is dead is freed from sin." (Romans 6:6-7) The simple idea being advanced is that dead people don’t sin anymore.
How are you living your life? Are you not concerned about sin because you have been saved? Are you resting in your eternal security? It is a sad day when believers aren't concerned about living in obedience to the Lord who saved them by His grace. I hope you are doing your very best to walk in the victory of the indwelling Holy Spirit. He will guide you both into obedience and into all truth.
Your Friend and HIS,
Pastor Abbott
MEDITATIONS
1. There are those who believe grace allows the believer to live without regard to the teachings of Scripture in relation to behavior. How would you answer this erroneous belief?
2. How would you explain what it means to be “dead to sin” in the context of Romans 6:2?
3. What part does the Holy Spirit have in enabling the believer to overcome the power of sin?
4. How are you currently living? Is there any sin that needs to be dealt with in your life?