Romans 6:1–2 – “Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?”
? Historical Context
Paul had just finished declaring in Romans 5 that “where sin increased, grace abounded all the more.” But he anticipates the critic who might say, “Well then, let’s sin even more so grace can shine brighter!” Romans 6 is his Spirit-breathed answer.
? The Zombie Gospel
A pastor once joked, “We have too many spiritual zombies in the church—people who claim to be dead to sin but still walk around doing its bidding!” Paul would agree—dead people don’t go back to their graves to party.
? Theme: Grace Doesn’t Give Permission—It Gives Power
Paul is not merely defending grace—he’s defining it. Grace doesn’t let you wallow in sin; it lifts you out of it.
“The normal Christian life must begin with a very definite ‘knowing’—knowing that our old man was crucified with Christ.” — Watchman Nee
? Cross-References
- Galatians 2:20 – “I have been crucified with Christ…”
- Titus 2:11–12 – “The grace of God… trains us to renounce ungodliness…”
? Personal Application
You are not who you once were. That old sinful self died at Calvary. So why keep feeding a corpse?
- What sin still “feels alive” in you?
- Are you using grace as a license, or a launchpad for holiness?
? Prayer
Lord, remind me that I’ve died with Christ. Kill in me any love of sin. Let me live today like someone risen from the grave. Amen.