Pastor’s Pen Pulpit

November 4, 2001

Series: Romans Chapter 5

“CONDEMNATION VS. JUSTIFICATION”

Romans 5:18-19

Today we continue the thoughts of Romans 5. Verses 18 and 19 sum up, in a concise form, the Apostle Paul’s teaching beginning in verse 12. In verse 17 we learn that the reign of death came upon all men through the transgression of the one (Adam.) Then Paul reminds us that for those in Christ, because of His work on the cross, there comes the abundance of grace and the free gift of righteousness.

In verse 18 the “so then” encapsulates verses 12-17:

So then as through the one transgression there resulted condemnation to all men, even so through one act of righteousness there resulted justification of life to all men.

We should be ready to remind men that they are already under God’s righteous condemnation because of our relationship to Adam. It doesn’t matter what we have done. Our condemnation comes from who we are related to, which results in our actions.

In the same way justification of life comes to all believers through one act of righteousness – Jesus dying on the cross.

Then comes the issue of disobedience versus obedience:

For as through the one man’s disobedience the many were made sinners, even so through the obedience of the One the many will be made righteous (v. 19).

Adam disobeyed God, thus making the many (the human race) sinners. In the same way through the obedience of one man, Jesus, the many will be made righteous (cf. Philippians 2:5-8.)

We are to follow the way of the Righteous One in obedience. God never said this would be easy. But He did say it would be possible! What a contrast:

disobedience = unrighteous = condemnation (to eternal separation from God)

obedience = righteous = justification (declared righteous by God)!

Reflect on these precious doctrines as this is where the believer’s strength comes from. God bless.

Once again Eva and I were overwhelmed with the outpouring of love of our beloved church family. Thank you so much for the cards and gifts, but most of all – those hugs! What an encouragement and blessing you all are to us!

Love to you all,