Useful Bible Studies > Romans Commentary > chapter 5

The two most important events that have ever happened

Romans 5:15-17

The most important event in Adam’s life was when he chose not to obey God (Genesis 3:1-6). That was how evil deeds and death entered our world.

The most important event in Christ’s life was when he died for us (5:8), He had chosen to obey God (Mark 14:36) so that many people can receive a right relationship with God. That is how people can receive life without end (John 3:16; John 11:25-26),

Those two events are the most important events that have yet happened in our world. Adam was the first man, so we all naturally belong to his family. Like him, we are all guilty of wrong and evil thoughts, words and actions (3:23). Like him, we all must die (6:23).

However, God is creating a new world (Revelation 21:1), and because of Christ, we can belong to it (2 Corinthians 5:17; Revelation 21:3). All who receive Christ into their lives become members of his family (John 1:12-13; Romans 8:14-21). That is God’s free gift to them: because of Christ, they receive a right relationship with him (5:10), By means of Christ, they receive life that never ends (1 Corinthians 15:22).

Paul contrasts the results of what Adam and Christ did. Adam brought God’s judgement against the world. He (Adam) allowed death to have power against everyone born after him. However, Christ made it possible for God to forgive people. By means of Christ, people can receive a right relationship with God, as God’s free gift to them. That relationship is not just for their lives in this world - it will never end.

Next part: Adam’s family and Christ’s family (Romans 5:18-19)

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