Romans 5:12

Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so also death was passed on to all men, because all sinned.

Study Bible

Therefore
This word serves as a bridge, connecting the preceding arguments in Romans with the profound theological truths that follow. In the Greek, "διὰ τοῦτο" (dia touto) indicates a conclusion or result. Paul is drawing a logical inference from his previous discussion about justification by faith and the peace believers have with God. It signals a shift to a foundational explanation of sin and death's entrance into the world.

just as
The phrase "καθὼς" (kathōs) introduces a comparison, setting up a parallel between Adam and Christ, which Paul will elaborate on in the subsequent verses. This comparison is crucial for understanding the doctrine of original sin and the redemptive work of Christ. It invites readers to consider the symmetry between the actions of Adam and the redemptive act of Jesus.

sin entered the world
The Greek word for sin, "ἁμαρτία" (hamartia), conveys the idea of missing the mark or falling short of God's standard. The entrance of sin into the world marks a pivotal moment in human history, as described in Genesis 3. This phrase underscores the historical reality of the Fall, which brought about a fundamental change in the human condition and the created order.

through one man
This refers to Adam, the first human, whose disobedience in the Garden of Eden had cosmic consequences. The Greek "δι’ ἑνὸς ἀνθρώπου" (di’ henos anthrōpou) emphasizes the singularity of Adam's act and its far-reaching impact. Adam's role as the federal head of humanity means that his sin affected all his descendants, a concept that is foundational to the doctrine of original sin.

and death through sin
Death, "θάνατος" (thanatos) in Greek, is both physical and spiritual, signifying separation from God. The entrance of death through sin highlights the direct consequence of Adam's transgression. This reflects the Genesis account where God warned Adam that eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil would result in death (Genesis 2:17). Death is portrayed as an intruder in God's good creation, a result of sin's corruption.

so also death was passed on to all men
The phrase "οὕτως εἰς πάντας ἀνθρώπους ὁ θάνατος διῆλθεν" (houtōs eis pantas anthrōpous ho thanatos diēlthen) indicates the universality of death's reign. The transmission of death to all humanity underscores the pervasive impact of sin. This concept is central to understanding human mortality and the need for redemption. It reflects the biblical teaching that all are born into a fallen state, necessitating divine intervention.

because all sinned
The Greek "ἐφ’ ᾧ πάντες ἥμαρτον" (eph’ hō pantes hēmarton) can be understood as "in whom all sinned," suggesting that all humanity participated in Adam's sin. This phrase encapsulates the doctrine of original sin, where Adam's guilt is imputed to his descendants. It highlights the solidarity of the human race in sin and the need for a Savior. This theological truth sets the stage for the redemptive work of Christ, who offers life and righteousness to all who believe.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Adam
The first man created by God, whose disobedience led to the entrance of sin into the world.

2. Sin
The act of disobedience against God, which entered the world through Adam.

3. Death
The consequence of sin, both physical and spiritual, that affects all humanity.

4. World
The created order that was affected by the entrance of sin.

5. All Men
Refers to all of humanity, who inherit the sinful nature and its consequences.

Teaching Points

The Universality of Sin
Sin affects every person, as all are descendants of Adam. Understanding this helps us recognize our need for a Savior.

The Consequence of Sin
Death, both physical and spiritual, is the direct result of sin. This underscores the seriousness of sin in God's eyes.

The Need for Redemption
Since all have sinned, redemption through Jesus Christ is essential for reconciliation with God.

The Role of Adam and Christ
Adam's disobedience brought sin and death, while Christ's obedience brings righteousness and life.

Living in Awareness
Recognizing our sinful nature should lead us to live in humility and dependence on God's grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the role of Adam in the entrance of sin into the world affect your view of human nature?

2. In what ways does the concept of original sin influence your understanding of personal responsibility and accountability before God?

3. How can the parallel between Adam and Christ in 1 Corinthians 15:21-22 deepen your appreciation for the work of Christ?

4. What practical steps can you take to live in the awareness of the consequences of sin and the need for redemption?

5. How does recognizing the universality of sin and death impact your approach to sharing the gospel with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 3
Describes the original sin of Adam and Eve, which brought sin and death into the world.

1 Corinthians 15:21-22
Discusses the parallel between Adam and Christ, highlighting the contrast between death through Adam and life through Christ.

Psalm 51:5
David acknowledges the inherent sinfulness of humanity from birth, aligning with the concept of original sin.

Romans 3:23
States that all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, reinforcing the universality of sin.

Hebrews 9:27
Affirms that death is a consequence of sin and is appointed for all men.