Romans 5:21

so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Study Bible

so that
This phrase indicates purpose or result, connecting the preceding discussion about sin and grace to the outcome described in this verse. In the Greek, "ἵνα" (hina) is often used to express purpose, showing that the following statement is the intended result of what has been previously discussed. This highlights the divine intention behind the narrative of sin and grace, emphasizing God's sovereign plan in salvation history.

just as sin reigned
The imagery of sin "reigning" suggests a dominion or authority, akin to a king ruling over his subjects. The Greek word "ἐβασίλευσεν" (ebasileusen) is derived from "βασιλεύω" (basileuō), meaning to rule as a king. Historically, this reflects the pervasive influence of sin in the world, as seen from the fall of Adam. Sin's reign is characterized by its power to corrupt and lead humanity away from God, resulting in spiritual and physical death.

in death
Death here is both physical and spiritual, a consequence of sin's dominion. The Greek "ἐν τῷ θανάτῳ" (en tō thanatō) underscores the sphere in which sin's reign is most evident. Biblically, death entered the world through Adam's transgression (Genesis 2:17, Romans 5:12), and it serves as the ultimate penalty for sin. This phrase reminds believers of the stark reality of life without God's intervention.

so also grace might reign
In contrast to sin, grace is depicted as a reigning power. The Greek "ἡ χάρις βασιλεύσῃ" (hē charis basileusē) uses the same verb for reigning, indicating a parallel but opposite dominion. Grace, unmerited favor from God, overcomes the reign of sin, offering redemption and life. This reflects the transformative power of God's grace, which not only forgives but also empowers believers to live righteously.

through righteousness
Righteousness is the means by which grace reigns. The Greek "διὰ δικαιοσύνης" (dia dikaiosynēs) suggests that righteousness is the channel or instrument of grace's dominion. This righteousness is not of human origin but is imputed through faith in Christ (Romans 3:22). It signifies a restored relationship with God, where believers are justified and made right before Him.

to bring eternal life
The ultimate purpose of grace reigning through righteousness is to grant eternal life. The Greek "εἰς ζωὴν αἰώνιον" (eis zōēn aiōnion) indicates a movement towards or result in eternal life. This life is not merely unending existence but a quality of life in communion with God, beginning now and continuing forever. It is the fulfillment of God's promise and the hope of every believer.

through Jesus Christ our Lord
Jesus Christ is the agent through whom eternal life is made possible. The Greek "διὰ Ἰησοῦ Χριστοῦ τοῦ Κυρίου ἡμῶν" (dia Iēsou Christou tou Kyriou hēmōn) emphasizes His central role in salvation. As Lord, He has authority over all, and through His death and resurrection, He conquered sin and death. This phrase affirms the exclusivity of Christ as the mediator of God's grace and the source of eternal life, underscoring the Christian confession of faith in Jesus as Lord.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the Book of Romans, Paul was a key figure in the early Christian church, known for his missionary journeys and theological teachings.

2. Jesus Christ
Central to this verse, Jesus is the means through which grace reigns, bringing eternal life.

3. Sin and Death
Personified in this passage, sin and death are depicted as reigning forces before the intervention of grace.

4. Grace and Righteousness
These are the divine attributes that counteract sin and death, leading to eternal life.

5. Eternal Life
The ultimate promise and gift through Jesus Christ, contrasting the reign of sin and death.

Teaching Points

The Reign of Sin and Death
Understand the pervasive nature of sin and its consequence, death, which affects all humanity.

The Power of Grace
Recognize that grace is more powerful than sin, offering a new reign through righteousness.

Righteousness Through Christ
Emphasize that righteousness is not achieved by human effort but is a gift through Jesus Christ.

Eternal Life as a Present Reality
Eternal life begins now for believers, as they live under the reign of grace.

Living Under Grace
Encourage believers to live in the freedom and power of grace, rejecting the dominion of sin.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the reign of sin and death help us appreciate the gift of grace?

2. In what ways can we see the evidence of grace reigning in our lives today?

3. How does the concept of righteousness through Jesus Christ challenge our views on self-righteousness or works-based salvation?

4. What practical steps can we take to live more fully under the reign of grace in our daily lives?

5. How do other scriptures, such as Ephesians 2:8-9, deepen our understanding of grace and its role in salvation?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 6:23
This verse further explains the wages of sin as death, but the gift of God as eternal life through Jesus Christ, reinforcing the contrast between sin and grace.

1 Corinthians 15:22
This passage discusses how in Adam all die, but in Christ, all will be made alive, paralleling the themes of death through sin and life through grace.

Ephesians 2:8-9
These verses emphasize salvation by grace through faith, not by works, highlighting the unmerited favor of God.

Titus 3:5-7
This passage speaks of the washing of regeneration and renewal by the Holy Spirit, which aligns with the concept of grace reigning through righteousness.