The Gift Is Not Like The Trespass—Romans 5:15

"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!" (Romans 5:15)

What Adam did to make us sinners cannot compare to what Jesus did in making us righteous!

Over the next six verses, the apostle Paul reiterates this point at least five times. It is important, so listen up! Adam introduced the destructive, powerful force of sin into the universe but it in no way compares to how Jesus dealt with sin and death. The world inherited sin and death from Adam, but followers of Jesus inherit righteousness and life.

The gift is not like the trespass.

It is easy to downplay glorious victories by focusing on the negative. We naturally focus on the consequences of Adam’s disobedience, because we experience them every day. However, Paul reminds us that what Christ accomplished on the cross far surpasses this in every way imaginable. Here’s the comparison:


Vs. 15
Vs. 16
Vs. 17
Vs. 18
Vs. 19
Vs. 20
Vs. 21
Adam
Death
Judgement/Condemnation
Death
Condemnation
Made Sinners
Sin Increased
Sin Reigned
Jesus
Grace
Justification
Righteousness
Life
Made Righteous
Grace Increased
Grace Reigned

Jesus’ sacrifice was so extravagant that it completely overshadowed Adam’s transgression. The gift has no basis of comparison to the trespass. The gift of Jesus overshadowed, outweighed, overcame and outshines it!

Although we don’t deserve it, this grace benefits all of us. Jesus has completely undone what Adam did. I am so thankful for Jesus’ extravagant gift, and to know that what He did far surpassed Adam’s sin. This gift is free for everyone who believes in Jesus.

Reflect

Have you ever stopped to consider the extravagant nature of the gift of Jesus? What one thing especially resonates with you today?

When you compare the chart of Adam and Jesus above, what stands out to you? What are you thankful for?

Previous: Romans 5:14  Next: Romans 5:16-19

Original article published October 10, 2009.

Juli Camarin

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