Contrast Between The Law And Grace: Romans 5:20-21
“20) The Law came in so that the transgression would increase; but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, 21) that, as sin reigned in death, even so grace would reign through righteousness to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 5:20-21
Paul closes Romans chapter five with one more contrast. This time it is between the Law and grace. He stresses again that the Law came in that transgression might increase. The Law was not intended to save people, but rather to prove the guilt of sin beyond all doubt and to show that they are worthy of death.
By contrast, grace abounded all the more and paved the way for righteousness unto eternal life through Jesus Christ. Just as the Law reigned bringing death, much more grace reigns unto eternal life.
These two verses put the final nail in the coffin of works based religion. Any effort to be accepted by God on the basis keeping the Law or self-righteousness is futile. It only amplifies how bad we have missed the mark. When measured by the Law there is no guest question of my sin and guilt.
I join with Paul in celebrate amazing grace. I put all my faith and hope in Jesus Christ and His work on the cross as the payment for my sin and the basis for my salvation.
Daily Bible Commentary By Terry Baxter: Cofounder of GoServ Global
