Our scripture this morning is Romans 5:15-17.
But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man, how much more did God’s grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many! Nor can the gift of God be compared with the result of one man’s sin: The judgment followed one sin and brought condemnation, but the gift followed many trespasses and brought justification. 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!
Even in modern English translations, Paul is sometimes difficult to follow. Today’s passage was taken from the New International Version (NIV). In these verses he compares the curse brought about by Adam’s disobedience with the blessing we have received through Christ’s obedience.
Paul explains that while humanity chose our own way, Jesus chose to obey God, remaining sinless even in the face of all human temptation and wickedness. More than this, His sacrifice at the hands of those frightened of losing control stood as our sacrifice for all time, God’s forgiveness poured out for His people. God planned our redemption and Jesus lived it out for all to see.
This gift of salvation is offered to all who confess Jesus as Lord and earnestly repent of their sins. There are no strings, no memory of past wrongs, only the joy of being restored. God waits for us with the open arms of love, wanting only for us to be in relationship with Him.
Loving Lord, we are amazed at what You have done to save Your sinful children. Thank You for sending Jesus to show us the way back to You. Amen.