The Contrast of Adam and Jesus in Romans 5.
Thinking back over Romans 5 so far.
Paul has been showing the vast contrast between Adam and Jesus Christ. It might be good for us to review what Paul has been teaching so far in Romans 5.
It’s important for us to keep the big picture in mind - because doing that will help us in our understanding of what’s happening from verse to verse.
Reviewing Romans 5 so far.
Here’s where we’ve been so far in Romans 5.
Romans 5:1-11 emphasized the amazing blessings for the justified in Jesus Christ.
Paul discussed when sin entered the world in Romans 5:12 and how sin existed before the Law of Moses (Romans 5:13).
He then examined the connection between Adam and Jesus starting in Romans 5:14.
The grace of God through Jesus Christ is superior to sin - which entered the world through Adam, as Paul shows in Romans 5:15. The grace of God is so far superior to sin, even “many-sin-people” can be saved through Him (Romans 5:16). Ultimately, what comes through Jesus Christ is life rather than death (Romans 5:17).
So, Romans 5 has been one giant contrast.
“Look at how wonderful the blessings are in Jesus Christ. Look at what God has done for us sinners through Him!”
“Look at how hopeless and terrible a situation we find ourselves in outside of Jesus Christ. Because of our choice to follow Adam into sin, we need what God offers in His Son.”
The more I study the book of Romans with you, the more I’m reminded of our need - of my need - for God’s Son.
What He has done for us is truly “Amazing Grace.”
How hopeless and full of despair our lives would be without Him. Thank God for Jesus Christ - our risen Lord and Savior!