Romans 5:15-18 NLT
There is a great difference between Adam’s sin and God’s gracious gift. For the sin of this one man, Adam, brought death to many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of forgiveness to many through this other man, Jesus Christ. And the result of God’s gracious gift is very different from the result of that one man’s sin. For Adam’s sin led to condemnation, but God’s free gift leads to our being made right with God, even though we are guilty of many sins. For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and His gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ. Yes, Adam’s one sin brings condemnation for everyone, but Christ’s one act of righteousness brings a right relationship with God and new life for everyone.
Through Adam’s choice to disobey God, he brought death. Through Christ’s obedience to God, He brought grace and forgiveness. Through Adam’s choice to disobey God, he brought condemnation. Through Christ’s obedience to God, He brought righteousness, along with the opportunity for a right relationship with God and new life for … who? Everyone who believes.
Whose image do you feel like you live in day in and day out? Adam’s or Jesus’s? Through Jesus we are offered ‘new life’ - how does it feel for you to experience that all condemnation is lifted from you right now?
Listen again, but this time, we will focus only on what Christ provides for you: There is a great difference between Adam’s sin and God’s gracious gift. … But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of forgiveness to many through this other man, Jesus Christ. And the result of God’s gracious gift is very different … God’s free gift leads to our being made right with God, even though we are guilty of many sins. … But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ. Yes, … Christ’s one act of righteousness brings a right relationship with God and new life for everyone. (Romans 5:15-18 NLT)
The word “gift” is used five times in this passage. God’s wonderful free gift of forgiveness and His righteousness. Today, His gift is yours. Receive it. Open it. Live it. Share it.
Let’s pray: “Father, thank You for Your gift. Thank You that You offer this gift to me every day. Help me to receive what You give and be grateful that I can walk in true, real freedom and forgiveness. As above, so below.”