ROMANS 5:17

For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ.

TO PONDER:

I enjoy reading Romans, I usually have to read a chapter several times to understand what Paul is saying to the Roman converts and consequently to me. (I was once told that the Romans were better educated people, so Paul adapted this way of writing, I am not sure if that was a dig at me for being a bit slow to get the message).

It seems that Paul is reflecting on the problem of sin and its answer in God’s grace. Today’s text  looks at the similarity and contrast between Adam and Christ. God created a perfect world and created humanity in his own image, and humanity was to look after all of God’s creation.  There was only one condition – do not eat the fruit from the tree in the centre of the garden[Genesis 2:15-18]. Adam and Eve fell to temptation and were banished from the Garden. What Adam gave us was a broken relationship with God himself, a broken relationship between each other and a broken relationship with nature. People continued to sin, they faced death as God had said, evil and sin ruled the world

God had a plan to negate that condemnation – Jesus.  Obedient Jesus, who lived on this earth showing us how to live a life that pleases God. Teaching people how, with the Holy Spirit’s help, to know God and learn to trust him and have faith in him. He died on the cross bearing our sins and despite our unworthiness we are, by the grace of God, forgiven and eternal life is ours.                 

Adam’s sin brought condemnation into the world but Jesus’ obedience brought righteousness and life to all caught up in sin; what a beautiful gift, may we never loose sight of that righteous gift and its cost.

Prayer: Lord God, you alone have the power and authority to negate the evil one’s plan to lead people into sin and so death. Thank you for your obedient son, Jesus, who defeated death by dying on the cross and rising to life on the third day. May I never forget your gift of righteousness and eternal life with you, and what the cost was. Strengthen me to withstand the wiles and ways of the evil one.  May I, with the help of your Holy Spirit, remain strong and unwavering in my faith in you. Amen

Today's devotion written by Maureen Macpherson, LifeWay Newcastle