Romans - Sin’s Power is Broken

Sin’s Power is Broken

Romans 6

 

“We know that our old sinful selves were crucified with Christ so that sin might lose its power in our lives. We are no longer slaves to sin. For when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin. And since we died with Christ, we know we will also live with him.” (Romans 6:6-8)

 

                  In chapter 6 we find Paul bringing home the truth that thru Christ’s death the power of sin is shattered. Once we are become one with Christ we are no longer subject to the power of sin. “...do not give the devil a foothold. Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.” (Ephesians 4:27-28)

                  When you receive God’s incredible gift of forgiveness we are different.  “...if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. God made him who had no sin to be sin[b] for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” (Ephesians 5:17-21)

                  Paul cautions the Roman believers not to misinterpret God’s patience and love by saying ‘since God forgives, let us continue to sin and then simply ask for forgiveness after’. Paul says that is utter nonsense. To continue to sin after you were forgiven is to trample on God’s grace. The punishment will be worse for any who justifies their continued sinning due to God’s forgiving nature. They have missed the point. You are a new creation for a reason, to live life as a free man, woman, and child with the goal of soaking in all that Christ is so that we might imitate His behavior.

                  Paul concludes chapter 6 with a final point.... the cost of sinning is death, for evil cannot exist within the realm of God; however, the gift that comes as a result of ones acceptance is eternal life. Don’t figuratively spit in the Lord’s face by being willing to enjoy the fruits of salvation only to continue sinning. Those who do this will ultimately be dealt with at the proper time. God is serious regarding ones serving him for this is a blessing and not a hardship. Being no longer slaves of sin, we begin to regret those things we’ve done in the past. We must now do those things that lead to holiness and eternal life. It may seem unattainable, but nothing is out of reach when God is in charge of your life and the Holy Spirit is there to lead and guide you. Next time we’ll look at how we’re no longer bound by the OT Law. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His name & for His glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.