Law vs. Grace

The law was brought in so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 5:20-21 NIV

We need laws. They help us know right from wrong. Without traffic laws, there would be chaos on the roads. Everyone could drive the way they wanted. Different countries have determined which side of the road one should drive on. If we didn’t follow the designated side of the road, there would be huge traffic jams.

We also need God’s laws to show us how to live. The first four show us how to love God. The last six show us how to love each other. There are consequences of disobeying the laws of the road. If you drive too fast, you are subject to getting a fine. There is a penalty for breaking God’s laws as well.

The one who sins is the one who will die. The child will not share the guilt of the parent, nor will the parent share the guilt of the child. The righteousness of the righteous will be credited to them, and the wickedness of the wicked will be charged against them. Ezekiel 18:20 NIV

Romans 5:20-21 is a profound passage that highlights the abundance of God’s grace in contrast to the magnitude of human sin:

“But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Romans 5:20-21, NIV)

This passage emphasizes the superabundance of God’s grace in response to human sin. It suggests that no matter how great our sins may be, God’s grace is infinitely greater. This doesn’t mean that we should continue sinning, but rather that God’s grace is more than sufficient to cover all our sins when we genuinely repent and turn to Him.

Furthermore, the passage contrasts the reign of sin, which leads to death, with the reign of grace through righteousness, which leads to eternal life. Through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, God’s grace has triumphed over sin and death, offering forgiveness and the gift of eternal life to all who believe in Him.

Overall, Romans 5:20-21 highlights the overwhelming power of God’s grace to overcome sin and bring salvation to humanity through Jesus Christ. It serves as a reminder of God’s boundless love and mercy toward His creation.

–Diane (blog.peacebewithu.org)