Romans 7:4

Therefore, my brothers, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you might belong to another, to Him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit to God.

Study Bible

Therefore, my brothers
The word "Therefore" connects this verse to the preceding discussion, indicating a conclusion or result. The Greek word "ἀδελφοί" (adelphoi), translated as "brothers," is often used in the New Testament to refer to fellow believers, emphasizing the familial bond among Christians. This term underscores the unity and shared identity in Christ, transcending ethnic and social boundaries, and invites the reader to consider the implications of the preceding arguments personally and communally.

you also died to the law
The phrase "died to the law" is pivotal in understanding the believer's relationship with the Mosaic Law. The Greek verb "ἀπεθάνετε" (apethanete) signifies a definitive break or separation. In the context of Romans, Paul argues that through Christ's death, believers are released from the law's jurisdiction, which once held them captive. This death is not physical but spiritual, signifying liberation from the law's condemnation and the old covenant's demands.

through the body of Christ
This phrase highlights the means by which believers are freed from the law. The "body of Christ" refers to His physical death on the cross. Theologically, this underscores the doctrine of substitutionary atonement, where Christ's sacrificial death fulfills the law's requirements and penalties on behalf of humanity. The Greek term "σώματος" (sōmatos) emphasizes the tangible, historical reality of Christ's incarnation and crucifixion, which is central to Christian faith.

that you might belong to another
The purpose of dying to the law is to "belong to another," indicating a transfer of allegiance and identity. The Greek word "γένησθε" (genēsthe) suggests becoming or being made into something new. This transformation is relational, moving from the law's dominion to a personal relationship with Christ. It reflects the covenantal language of marriage, where believers are now united with Christ, the bridegroom, in a new covenant.

to Him who was raised from the dead
This phrase affirms the resurrection of Christ, a cornerstone of Christian doctrine. The Greek "ἐκ νεκρῶν" (ek nekrōn) emphasizes the victory over death and the new life that Christ inaugurates. The resurrection is not only a historical event but also a present reality that empowers believers to live in the newness of life. It assures believers of their future resurrection and eternal life with Christ.

in order that we might bear fruit to God
The ultimate purpose of this new relationship is to "bear fruit to God." The Greek "καρποφορήσωμεν" (karpophorēsōmen) conveys the idea of producing or yielding fruit, symbolizing the visible evidence of a transformed life. This fruitfulness is not self-generated but results from abiding in Christ, as depicted in John 15. It encompasses both character (the fruit of the Spirit) and actions (good works), reflecting God's glory and advancing His kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the Book of Romans, addressing the believers in Rome, explaining the transition from the law to grace.

2. The Law
Refers to the Mosaic Law, which governed the lives of the Israelites and highlighted the need for a savior.

3. The Body of Christ
Represents Jesus Christ's physical body, through which believers are united in His death and resurrection.

4. Christ's Resurrection
The event of Jesus rising from the dead, signifying victory over sin and death, and enabling believers to live a new life.

5. Believers in Rome
The original audience of the letter, who were grappling with the implications of the law and grace.

Teaching Points

Dying to the Law
Believers are no longer bound by the law's demands because they have died to it through Christ. This death is symbolic of a complete break from the old way of living under the law's condemnation.

Belonging to Christ
Our identity is now in Christ, who was raised from the dead. This new relationship is characterized by grace and freedom, not by adherence to the law.

Bearing Fruit to God
The ultimate purpose of this new life in Christ is to bear fruit that glorifies God. This fruit is manifested in our character, actions, and witness to others.

Living in Resurrection Power
Just as Christ was raised from the dead, believers are empowered to live a victorious life over sin, enabled by the Holy Spirit.

Transformation through Union with Christ
Our union with Christ transforms us from the inside out, enabling us to live a life that reflects His love and righteousness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding that we have "died to the law" change the way we view our relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we practically "belong to another," specifically to Christ, in our daily lives?

3. What are some examples of "fruit" that we can bear to God, and how can we cultivate this fruit in our lives?

4. How does the resurrection of Christ empower us to live differently than before we knew Him?

5. How can we encourage one another in our faith communities to live out the transformation that comes from being united with Christ?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 6:3-4
Discusses being baptized into Christ's death and raised to walk in newness of life, paralleling the idea of dying to the law and living for God.

Galatians 2:19-20
Paul speaks about being crucified with Christ and living by faith, reinforcing the concept of dying to the law.

John 15:5
Jesus talks about bearing fruit by abiding in Him, which connects to the purpose of belonging to Christ and bearing fruit to God.

Colossians 1:10
Encourages believers to live a life worthy of the Lord and bear fruit in every good work, aligning with the purpose stated in Romans 7:4.

2 Corinthians 5:17
Describes believers as new creations in Christ, emphasizing the transformation that occurs through Christ's resurrection.