Have you ever given worthy attention to the question the apostle asks in Romans 6:1? What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace might increase?
Believers have a double sin problem. That's how drastic this issue is. First, we compare ourselves into looking better by noting the sinfulness of those around us. We tell ourselves that at least we aren't THAT bad.
Second, the double condemnity comes through the back door with perpetual whispers of, Hey, no one on earth knows how really crummy and sinful you are. No one.
Thus, the double condemned problem; excusing ourselves that we aren't that bad and, yet knowing we are far worse.
Have you ever wondered, though, why Paul would need to raise the above question?
Could it be because it is nearly breath-takingly unbelievable....because it is true? Of course we are not to continue in sin in order to motivate grace to do its grand work. But the message before and after that verse is that where sin increases, grace ramps up its effectiveness...and always wins.
The grace of God is for sinners. It outraces sin. Grace excels when sin seems to have the lead. Grace drapes us with the victory flag!
And the Law came in that the transgression might increase; but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more.
The double condemnity that you and I battle day in and day out has been whipped on the cross...that, as sin reigned in death, even so grace might reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord (Rom. 5:20-21).
No comments:
Post a Comment