Romans: Justification, sanctification, and Salvation

  • Christian Chat is a moderated online Christian community allowing Christians around the world to fellowship with each other in real time chat via webcam, voice, and text, with the Christian Chat app. You can also start or participate in a Bible-based discussion here in the Christian Chat Forums, where members can also share with each other their own videos, pictures, or favorite Christian music.

    If you are a Christian and need encouragement and fellowship, we're here for you! If you are not a Christian but interested in knowing more about Jesus our Lord, you're also welcome! Want to know what the Bible says, and how you can apply it to your life? Join us!

    To make new Christian friends now around the world, click here to join Christian Chat.

tylerbones1313

Active member
May 1, 2022
565
156
43
#1
The Book of Romans, an epistle in the New Testament of the Bible, is one of the most influential texts in Christian theology, written by the Apostle Paul to the believers in Rome. It systematically outlines the Christian faith, explaining the Gospel of Jesus Christ and its implications for both Jews and Gentiles. Here’s a synopsis of its key themes and structure:

Introduction (Romans 1:1-17)
Paul introduces himself and expresses his desire to visit the Roman church. He states the letter’s theme in Romans 1:16-17, emphasizing the righteousness of God revealed through faith in Jesus Christ.

Condemnation (Romans 1:18-3:20)
Paul begins by demonstrating humanity's universal sinfulness. He argues that Gentiles, despite not having the Law, have sinned against their innate knowledge of God (1:18-32), and that Jews, despite having the Law, have also failed to live up to it (2:1-3:20), concluding that all humanity stands guilty before God.

Justification (Romans 3:21-5:21)
This section presents the core of the Gospel: righteousness from God is available through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe (3:21-26). Paul explains justification by faith, contrasting it with the works of the Law, and discusses Abraham as an example of faith (4:1-25). He expounds on the benefits of being justified, such as peace with God and the hope of glory (5:1-21).

Sanctification (Romans 6:1-8:39)
Paul addresses the implications of justification for the believer’s life, focusing on sanctification—the process of being made holy. He discusses dying to sin and living to God (6:1-23), the believer’s relationship to the Law (7:1-25), and life in the Spirit, which empowers believers to live righteously (8:1-39).

Sovereignty of God in Salvation (Romans 9:1-11:36)
Paul delves into the sovereignty of God over salvation, particularly in relation to Israel. He defends God's right to choose and His faithfulness to His promises, explaining that not all ethnic Israelites are true spiritual descendants of Abraham. He concludes with a doxology, marveling at the depth of the riches of God's wisdom and knowledge (11:33-36).

Practical Application (Romans 12:1-15:13)
This section applies the theological truths discussed earlier to practical living, urging believers to offer their lives as living sacrifices, to use their gifts for the benefit of the church, to love their neighbors, and to live in harmony with others. Paul gives specific guidance on how to live out the Christian faith in various aspects of life.

Conclusion (Romans 15:14-16:27)
Paul concludes by expressing his plans to visit Rome and his desire for the Roman Christians to support his mission to Spain. He sends greetings to various individuals in the Roman church and ends with a doxology praising God.

The Book of Romans systematically explains the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ and its implications for both individual believers and the church as a whole. It addresses profound theological truths and provides practical guidance for living out the Christian faith, making it foundational to Christian belief and practice.
 

tylerbones1313

Active member
May 1, 2022
565
156
43
#2
Book of Romans
1 Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,

Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ:
This identifies Paul as a follower and devoted worker of Jesus Christ. "Servant" signifies his dedication and obedience to Christ.
Called to be an apostle: This emphasizes Paul's calling as a special messenger or ambassador for Christ. Apostles were entrusted with spreading the gospel message.
Separated unto the gospel of God: This highlights Paul's dedication to the gospel, the good news about Jesus Christ. He is set apart for this specific purpose.

2 (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,)
3 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh;


Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures:
This verse emphasizes the idea of fulfillment. Paul is stating that the good news of Jesus Christ (the gospel) was not a new invention. It was something God had promised long ago through his prophets in the Old Testament (referred to here as the "holy scriptures").

Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord: This clarifies the focus of the promised good news – it centers on Jesus Christ, identified as both Son (referring to his divine nature) and Lord (referring to his authority and power).
Which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh: This describes Jesus' human lineage. He was a descendant of King David, fulfilling another aspect of God's promises to establish a lasting kingdom through David's line (see 2 Samuel 7:12-16).

4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:

Declared to be the Son of God with power:
This emphasizes Jesus' divine sonship. His status as the Son of God isn't just a title, but a declaration confirmed with power.
According to the spirit of holiness: This phrase can be interpreted in a few ways:
  • It could refer to the Holy Spirit as the agent who empowers and validates Jesus' identity as the Son of God.
  • It could also signify that Jesus' sonship is demonstrated through his holy life and actions.
By the resurrection from the dead: This is the key event that serves as the proof of Jesus' divine sonship and power. His resurrection from the dead is seen as a victory over death and a demonstration of God's power working through him.

5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name:

By whom we have received grace and apostleship: This refers to how God accomplishes his plan (spreading the gospel) through people like Paul (the apostle mentioned in verse 1).
  • Grace: Signifies God's undeserved favor and enabling power. We don't earn the privilege of being apostles or sharing the gospel; it's a gift from God.
  • Apostleship: Refers to the specific calling and mission entrusted to Paul and other apostles to spread the gospel message.
For obedience to the faith among all nations: This clarifies the goal. The purpose of receiving grace and apostleship is to bring about obedience to the faith (the Christian faith) among all nations. This highlights the universal nature of the gospel message, intended for all people.
For his name: This explains the ultimate motivation. Everything – the promises, the coming of Jesus, the apostles' mission – is ultimately done "for his name". This signifies bringing glory and honor to God.


6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ: 7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ: Here, Paul is acknowledging the Roman Christians as part of the wider group of people who have been called by Jesus Christ. The term "called" is significant in Christian theology; it implies that God has invited or summoned these individuals into a relationship with Him through Jesus Christ. This calling is not just an invitation to believe but also to participate in the life and mission of Jesus.

To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: This phrase highlights that the letter is intended for all the Christians in Rome. Paul emphasizes that they are loved by God and called to be "saints." In the New Testament context, the term "saints" refers to all believers, not just a special class of holy people. It denotes those set apart by God for His purposes.
Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. This is a common Pauline greeting, expressing his wish for the recipients of his letter. "Grace" refers to the unmerited favor and love that God shows to humans, a key theme in Paul's theology. "Peace" is the result of experiencing God's grace—both an inner peace that comes from a reconciled relationship with God and the peace that should exist within the community of believers.
 

p_rehbein

Senior Member
Sep 4, 2013
30,229
6,557
113
#3
tylerbones 1313:

Did you write the OP yourself? Or, is it a copy/paste of an Article you read somewhere? If it is, who wrote it, and do you have a link to it?

Thanks

(BTW: Sanctification is achieved after salvation when one receives the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. FYI)
 

Inquisitor

Well-known member
Mar 17, 2022
2,333
714
113
#4
The Book of Romans, an epistle in the New Testament of the Bible, is one of the most influential texts in Christian theology, written by the Apostle Paul to the believers in Rome. It systematically outlines the Christian faith, explaining the Gospel of Jesus Christ and its implications for both Jews and Gentiles. Here’s a synopsis of its key themes and structure:

Introduction (Romans 1:1-17)
Paul introduces himself and expresses his desire to visit the Roman church. He states the letter’s theme in Romans 1:16-17, emphasizing the righteousness of God revealed through faith in Jesus Christ.

Condemnation (Romans 1:18-3:20)
Paul begins by demonstrating humanity's universal sinfulness. He argues that Gentiles, despite not having the Law, have sinned against their innate knowledge of God (1:18-32), and that Jews, despite having the Law, have also failed to live up to it (2:1-3:20), concluding that all humanity stands guilty before God.

Justification (Romans 3:21-5:21)
This section presents the core of the Gospel: righteousness from God is available through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe (3:21-26). Paul explains justification by faith, contrasting it with the works of the Law, and discusses Abraham as an example of faith (4:1-25). He expounds on the benefits of being justified, such as peace with God and the hope of glory (5:1-21).

Sanctification (Romans 6:1-8:39)
Paul addresses the implications of justification for the believer’s life, focusing on sanctification—the process of being made holy. He discusses dying to sin and living to God (6:1-23), the believer’s relationship to the Law (7:1-25), and life in the Spirit, which empowers believers to live righteously (8:1-39).

Sovereignty of God in Salvation (Romans 9:1-11:36)
Paul delves into the sovereignty of God over salvation, particularly in relation to Israel. He defends God's right to choose and His faithfulness to His promises, explaining that not all ethnic Israelites are true spiritual descendants of Abraham. He concludes with a doxology, marveling at the depth of the riches of God's wisdom and knowledge (11:33-36).

Practical Application (Romans 12:1-15:13)
This section applies the theological truths discussed earlier to practical living, urging believers to offer their lives as living sacrifices, to use their gifts for the benefit of the church, to love their neighbors, and to live in harmony with others. Paul gives specific guidance on how to live out the Christian faith in various aspects of life.

Conclusion (Romans 15:14-16:27)
Paul concludes by expressing his plans to visit Rome and his desire for the Roman Christians to support his mission to Spain. He sends greetings to various individuals in the Roman church and ends with a doxology praising God.

The Book of Romans systematically explains the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ and its implications for both individual believers and the church as a whole. It addresses profound theological truths and provides practical guidance for living out the Christian faith, making it foundational to Christian belief and practice.
I would place Romans at the top of the pile as far as doctrine is concerned. Not one of the most influential but the most influential letter in the N.T theology.
 

JaumeJ

Senior Member
Jul 2, 2011
21,240
6,531
113
#5
Where does all of this lead to the teaching of Jesus Yeshua? I love to rely on His teaching according to the Apostles.
 

tylerbones1313

Active member
May 1, 2022
565
156
43
#6
tylerbones 1313:

Did you write the OP yourself? Or, is it a copy/paste of an Article you read somewhere? If it is, who wrote it, and do you have a link to it?

Thanks

(BTW: Sanctification is achieved after salvation when one receives the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. FYI)
The synopsis of Romans I got from my Bible. The rest is years of studying and reading and knowledge I have gained over the years.
 

p_rehbein

Senior Member
Sep 4, 2013
30,229
6,557
113
#7
Book of Romans
1 Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated unto the gospel of God,

Paul, a servant of Jesus Christ: This identifies Paul as a follower and devoted worker of Jesus Christ. "Servant" signifies his dedication and obedience to Christ.
Called to be an apostle: This emphasizes Paul's calling as a special messenger or ambassador for Christ. Apostles were entrusted with spreading the gospel message.
Separated unto the gospel of God: This highlights Paul's dedication to the gospel, the good news about Jesus Christ. He is set apart for this specific purpose.

2 (Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures,)
3 Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh;


Which he had promised afore by his prophets in the holy scriptures: This verse emphasizes the idea of fulfillment. Paul is stating that the good news of Jesus Christ (the gospel) was not a new invention. It was something God had promised long ago through his prophets in the Old Testament (referred to here as the "holy scriptures").

Concerning his Son Jesus Christ our Lord: This clarifies the focus of the promised good news – it centers on Jesus Christ, identified as both Son (referring to his divine nature) and Lord (referring to his authority and power).
Which was made of the seed of David according to the flesh: This describes Jesus' human lineage. He was a descendant of King David, fulfilling another aspect of God's promises to establish a lasting kingdom through David's line (see 2 Samuel 7:12-16).

4 And declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead:

Declared to be the Son of God with power: This emphasizes Jesus' divine sonship. His status as the Son of God isn't just a title, but a declaration confirmed with power.
According to the spirit of holiness: This phrase can be interpreted in a few ways:
  • It could refer to the Holy Spirit as the agent who empowers and validates Jesus' identity as the Son of God.
  • It could also signify that Jesus' sonship is demonstrated through his holy life and actions.
By the resurrection from the dead: This is the key event that serves as the proof of Jesus' divine sonship and power. His resurrection from the dead is seen as a victory over death and a demonstration of God's power working through him.

5 By whom we have received grace and apostleship, for obedience to the faith among all nations, for his name:

By whom we have received grace and apostleship: This refers to how God accomplishes his plan (spreading the gospel) through people like Paul (the apostle mentioned in verse 1).
  • Grace: Signifies God's undeserved favor and enabling power. We don't earn the privilege of being apostles or sharing the gospel; it's a gift from God.
  • Apostleship: Refers to the specific calling and mission entrusted to Paul and other apostles to spread the gospel message.
For obedience to the faith among all nations: This clarifies the goal. The purpose of receiving grace and apostleship is to bring about obedience to the faith (the Christian faith) among all nations. This highlights the universal nature of the gospel message, intended for all people.
For his name: This explains the ultimate motivation. Everything – the promises, the coming of Jesus, the apostles' mission – is ultimately done "for his name". This signifies bringing glory and honor to God.


6 Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ: 7 To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ: Here, Paul is acknowledging the Roman Christians as part of the wider group of people who have been called by Jesus Christ. The term "called" is significant in Christian theology; it implies that God has invited or summoned these individuals into a relationship with Him through Jesus Christ. This calling is not just an invitation to believe but also to participate in the life and mission of Jesus.

To all that be in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: This phrase highlights that the letter is intended for all the Christians in Rome. Paul emphasizes that they are loved by God and called to be "saints." In the New Testament context, the term "saints" refers to all believers, not just a special class of holy people. It denotes those set apart by God for His purposes.
Grace to you and peace from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ. This is a common Pauline greeting, expressing his wish for the recipients of his letter. "Grace" refers to the unmerited favor and love that God shows to humans, a key theme in Paul's theology. "Peace" is the result of experiencing God's grace—both an inner peace that comes from a reconciled relationship with God and the peace that should exist within the community of believers.
This is copy and paste material. From where? Curious.
 
Dec 24, 2023
50
20
8
#8
Where does all of this lead to the teaching of Jesus Yeshua? I love to rely on His teaching according to the Apostles.
Paul wrote "I want you to know, brothers and sisters, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man, for I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but through a revelation of Jesus Christ." This is in Galatians 1.11-12. He goes on to elaborate. So I think to discuss Romans is to learn the teaching of Yeshua the Lord Messiah.

Now regarding the main stream of this thread. I am familiar with Romans and the rest of the Bible and I still find I can't say clearly what the crucifixion of Jesus does to save us, or what it saves us from. I can repeat the words in the form they are given, but I can't connect it up to saying "this is the problem, and this is how it's fixed" in a way that seems to make real sense and sounds like good news. So that's just my statement of what I might hope to gain from this thread. Thank you all for it.
 

Nehemiah6

Senior Member
Jul 18, 2017
24,503
12,955
113
#9
...I still find I can't say clearly what the crucifixion of Jesus does to save us, or what it saves us from.
The crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth -- the Son of God, who is God Himself -- paid the FULL PENALTY for the sins of the whole world. He also destroyed the power of the sin nature, and the power of the devil on the cross. So the crucifixion of Christ saves us from the penalty and the power of sin (and Satan), and will eventually save us from the presence of sin (the sin nature).

All sin is a violation of the Law of God, and every sin has a penalty. The penalty for sin is death -- both physical and eternal. Which is eternal Hell. So when Christ took away the sin of the world by the sacrifice of Himself, He made it possible for God to not only forgive our sins, but to free us from the penalty for sins (Hell).

But that was not all. God was also reconciled to us through Christ, and could give us the gift of eternal life. In addition to that He gave us the gift of the Holy Spirit, so that sin would not have dominion over us.

We are freed from the penalty and the power of sin through the crucifixion of Christ. But His resurrection is equally important. He was raised again for our justification. Therefore justification is by grace through faith in Christ and His finished work of redemption. We must believe wholeheartedly that Christ died for our sins, and was raised again for our justification.
 

Soyeong

Active member
Oct 11, 2023
771
93
28
#10
The Book of Romans, an epistle in the New Testament of the Bible, is one of the most influential texts in Christian theology, written by the Apostle Paul to the believers in Rome. It systematically outlines the Christian faith, explaining the Gospel of Jesus Christ and its implications for both Jews and Gentiles. Here’s a synopsis of its key themes and structure:

Introduction (Romans 1:1-17)
Paul introduces himself and expresses his desire to visit the Roman church. He states the letter’s theme in Romans 1:16-17, emphasizing the righteousness of God revealed through faith in Jesus Christ.

Condemnation (Romans 1:18-3:20)
Paul begins by demonstrating humanity's universal sinfulness. He argues that Gentiles, despite not having the Law, have sinned against their innate knowledge of God (1:18-32), and that Jews, despite having the Law, have also failed to live up to it (2:1-3:20), concluding that all humanity stands guilty before God.

Justification (Romans 3:21-5:21)
This section presents the core of the Gospel: righteousness from God is available through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe (3:21-26). Paul explains justification by faith, contrasting it with the works of the Law, and discusses Abraham as an example of faith (4:1-25). He expounds on the benefits of being justified, such as peace with God and the hope of glory (5:1-21).

Sanctification (Romans 6:1-8:39)
Paul addresses the implications of justification for the believer’s life, focusing on sanctification—the process of being made holy. He discusses dying to sin and living to God (6:1-23), the believer’s relationship to the Law (7:1-25), and life in the Spirit, which empowers believers to live righteously (8:1-39).

Sovereignty of God in Salvation (Romans 9:1-11:36)
Paul delves into the sovereignty of God over salvation, particularly in relation to Israel. He defends God's right to choose and His faithfulness to His promises, explaining that not all ethnic Israelites are true spiritual descendants of Abraham. He concludes with a doxology, marveling at the depth of the riches of God's wisdom and knowledge (11:33-36).

Practical Application (Romans 12:1-15:13)
This section applies the theological truths discussed earlier to practical living, urging believers to offer their lives as living sacrifices, to use their gifts for the benefit of the church, to love their neighbors, and to live in harmony with others. Paul gives specific guidance on how to live out the Christian faith in various aspects of life.

Conclusion (Romans 15:14-16:27)
Paul concludes by expressing his plans to visit Rome and his desire for the Roman Christians to support his mission to Spain. He sends greetings to various individuals in the Roman church and ends with a doxology praising God.

The Book of Romans systematically explains the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ and its implications for both individual believers and the church as a whole. It addresses profound theological truths and provides practical guidance for living out the Christian faith, making it foundational to Christian belief and practice.
The way to become righteous is different from what it means for us to become righteous. The only way to attain a character trait is through faith that we ought to be doers of that character trait while becoming someone who has a character trait means to become a doer of that trait. So we become righteous by faith apart from being required to have first done a certain amount of righteous works in order to earn it as the result, but it is contradictory to become righteous apart from becoming a doer of righteous works, which is why the faith by which we are declared righteous does not abolish our need to be a doer of righteous works, but rather our faith upholds it (Romans 3:28-31). This is also why Paul could deny in Romans 4:1-5 that we can earn our righteousness as a wage as the result of works while also saying in Romans 2:13 that only doers of the law will be declared righteous. Likewise, to say that God is righteous means that He is a doer of righteous works and it would be contradictory to say that He is righteous if he were not a doer of righteous works.

In Romans 7, Paul said that God's law is good, that he wanted to do good, that he delighted in obeying it, and that he served it with his mind, but contrasted that with the law of sin that was working within his members to cause him not to do the good that he wanted to do, that was holding him captive, that was waging war against the law of his mind, and that he served with his flesh. So it is important to avoid misinterpreting verses that refer to the law of sin as referring to the Law of God, for example, in Romans 7:22, Paul delighted in obeying the Law of God, so it would be absurd to interpret Romans 7:5 as referring to the Law of God as if Paul delighted in stirring up sinful passions in order to bear fruit unto death, but rather that is the role of the law of sin. The Law of God is not sinful, but is how we know what sin is (Romans 7:7), and when our sin is revealed, then that leads us to repent and causes sin to decrease, but the law of sin is sinful and causes sin to increase, so verses that refer to a law that is sinful, that causes sin to increase, or that hinders us from obeying the Law of God should be interpreted as referring to the law of sin, such as Romans 5:20, Romans 6:14, Romans 7:5, Galatians 2:19, Galatians 5:16-18, and 1 Corinthians 15:56.

In Psalms 119:29-30, he wanted to put false ways far from him, for God to be gracious to him by teaching him to obey His law, and he chose the way of faith by setting it before him, so this has always been the one and only way of salvation by grace through faith.
 

Pilgrimshope

Well-known member
Sep 2, 2020
12,323
4,978
113
#11
The Book of Romans, an epistle in the New Testament of the Bible, is one of the most influential texts in Christian theology, written by the Apostle Paul to the believers in Rome. It systematically outlines the Christian faith, explaining the Gospel of Jesus Christ and its implications for both Jews and Gentiles. Here’s a synopsis of its key themes and structure:

Introduction (Romans 1:1-17)
Paul introduces himself and expresses his desire to visit the Roman church. He states the letter’s theme in Romans 1:16-17, emphasizing the righteousness of God revealed through faith in Jesus Christ.

Condemnation (Romans 1:18-3:20)
Paul begins by demonstrating humanity's universal sinfulness. He argues that Gentiles, despite not having the Law, have sinned against their innate knowledge of God (1:18-32), and that Jews, despite having the Law, have also failed to live up to it (2:1-3:20), concluding that all humanity stands guilty before God.

Justification (Romans 3:21-5:21)
This section presents the core of the Gospel: righteousness from God is available through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe (3:21-26). Paul explains justification by faith, contrasting it with the works of the Law, and discusses Abraham as an example of faith (4:1-25). He expounds on the benefits of being justified, such as peace with God and the hope of glory (5:1-21).

Sanctification (Romans 6:1-8:39)
Paul addresses the implications of justification for the believer’s life, focusing on sanctification—the process of being made holy. He discusses dying to sin and living to God (6:1-23), the believer’s relationship to the Law (7:1-25), and life in the Spirit, which empowers believers to live righteously (8:1-39).

Sovereignty of God in Salvation (Romans 9:1-11:36)
Paul delves into the sovereignty of God over salvation, particularly in relation to Israel. He defends God's right to choose and His faithfulness to His promises, explaining that not all ethnic Israelites are true spiritual descendants of Abraham. He concludes with a doxology, marveling at the depth of the riches of God's wisdom and knowledge (11:33-36).

Practical Application (Romans 12:1-15:13)
This section applies the theological truths discussed earlier to practical living, urging believers to offer their lives as living sacrifices, to use their gifts for the benefit of the church, to love their neighbors, and to live in harmony with others. Paul gives specific guidance on how to live out the Christian faith in various aspects of life.

Conclusion (Romans 15:14-16:27)
Paul concludes by expressing his plans to visit Rome and his desire for the Roman Christians to support his mission to Spain. He sends greetings to various individuals in the Roman church and ends with a doxology praising God.

The Book of Romans systematically explains the doctrine of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ and its implications for both individual believers and the church as a whole. It addresses profound theological truths and provides practical guidance for living out the Christian faith, making it foundational to Christian belief and practice.
I remember in the old days people refered to this as “Roman’s road “
 

Pilgrimshope

Well-known member
Sep 2, 2020
12,323
4,978
113
#12
The crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth -- the Son of God, who is God Himself -- paid the FULL PENALTY for the sins of the whole world. He also destroyed the power of the sin nature, and the power of the devil on the cross. So the crucifixion of Christ saves us from the penalty and the power of sin (and Satan), and will eventually save us from the presence of sin (the sin nature).

All sin is a violation of the Law of God, and every sin has a penalty. The penalty for sin is death -- both physical and eternal. Which is eternal Hell. So when Christ took away the sin of the world by the sacrifice of Himself, He made it possible for God to not only forgive our sins, but to free us from the penalty for sins (Hell).

But that was not all. God was also reconciled to us through Christ, and could give us the gift of eternal life. In addition to that He gave us the gift of the Holy Spirit, so that sin would not have dominion over us.

We are freed from the penalty and the power of sin through the crucifixion of Christ. But His resurrection is equally important. He was raised again for our justification. Therefore justification is by grace through faith in Christ and His finished work of redemption. We must believe wholeheartedly that Christ died for our sins, and was raised again for our justification.
“We are freed from the penalty and the power of sin through the crucifixion of Christ.”

good post but what if we keep sinning and don’t repent ? Are we still excused from the penalty and power of sin ?

“What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.

Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey;

whether of sin unto death,

or of obedience unto righteousness?

But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin,

ye became the servants of righteousness.

I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity;

even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness.

But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.

For the wages of sin is death; ( if we keep sinning we’ll die )

but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”( if we repent and accept the gospel we’ll have what he promises in the gospel )
‭‭Romans‬ ‭6:15-19, 22-23‬ ‭KJV‬‬
 

Nehemiah6

Senior Member
Jul 18, 2017
24,503
12,955
113
#13
good post but what if we keep sinning and don’t repent ? Are we still excused from the penalty and power of sin ?
Salvation is irreversible. But God has ways and means of dealing with sin in His children. However a genuine Christian does not "keep sinning".
 

Pilgrimshope

Well-known member
Sep 2, 2020
12,323
4,978
113
#14
Salvation is irreversible. But God has ways and means of dealing with sin in His children. However a genuine Christian does not "keep sinning".
So if we keep sinning we won’t be judged ?

“For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries.

He that despised Moses' law died without mercy under two or three witnesses: of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden under foot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?

For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.”
‭‭Hebrews‬ ‭10:26-31‬ ‭

what do you make of things like that ?
 

Nehemiah6

Senior Member
Jul 18, 2017
24,503
12,955
113
#17
I see so a circle around what it’s saying there ?
What is saying what? You keep talking about Christians "keep sinning" when that is not even true. Christians can fall into sin and error, but that is not the same thing.
 
Dec 24, 2023
50
20
8
#18
The crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth ... paid the FULL PENALTY for the sins of the whole world. ...
All sin is a violation of the Law of God, and every sin has a penalty. The penalty for sin is death -- both physical and eternal. Which is eternal Hell. So when Christ took away the sin of the world by the sacrifice of Himself, He made it possible for God to not only forgive our sins, but to free us from the penalty for sins (Hell).
How could this make sense?

If the penalty for sin is the sinner's death, how could anyone else's death pay the penalty?

So it sounds like the penalty for sin is "someone's death". Why is that a fitting penalty? If it was the sinner's death, that would make more sense.

Perhaps it is not reasoned but an arbitrary policy of God's. Then I wonder, how is it good?
 
May 1, 2022
565
156
43
#19
How could this make sense?

If the penalty for sin is the sinner's death, how could anyone else's death pay the penalty?

So it sounds like the penalty for sin is "someone's death". Why is that a fitting penalty? If it was the sinner's death, that would make more sense.

Perhaps it is not reasoned but an arbitrary policy of God's. Then I wonder, how is it good?

Substitutionary Atonement
: The idea that Jesus' death paid the penalty for humanity's sins is rooted in the concept of substitutionary atonement. This is most directly articulated in the New Testament. For instance, 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, "God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God." This suggests a substitution where Jesus, sinless, takes on the sin of humanity, thereby offering a pathway to reconciliation with God.
The Nature of the Penalty for Sin: The biblical assertion that the penalty for sin is death comes from passages like Romans 6:23, "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." The death referenced here encompasses both physical death and a spiritual death, understood as eternal separation from God.
The Justice of Substitution: The question of how someone else's death could suffice for the penalty meant for others involves deep theological considerations. One perspective is that only a perfect, sinless sacrifice could suffice for the entirety of humanity's sins. As no human could fulfill this requirement due to inherent sinfulness (Romans 3:23), Jesus, being both fully divine and fully human, uniquely qualifies to be this substitute.
The Notion of Divine Justice and Goodness: The concept of substitutionary atonement operates within the framework of divine justice and mercy. It's posited that God's justice demands a penalty for sin, but His love and mercy provide a means of salvation through Jesus' sacrifice. This is seen in John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."
 
May 1, 2022
565
156
43
#20
How could this make sense?

If the penalty for sin is the sinner's death, how could anyone else's death pay the penalty?

So it sounds like the penalty for sin is "someone's death". Why is that a fitting penalty? If it was the sinner's death, that would make more sense.

Perhaps it is not reasoned but an arbitrary policy of God's. Then I wonder, how is it good?

Reason vs. Arbitrary Policy:
While the concept might seem outside the realm of human logic, it doesn't imply arbitrariness. It reflects God's nature as both just and merciful, offering a path to reconciliation. Many theological explanations attempt to explain this concept using metaphors or analogies, but ultimately, it's a matter of faith and trusting in God's plan.
Goodness of the Sacrifice: The sacrifice is seen as "good" because it offers hope of redemption and eternal life with God. It demonstrates God's immense love for humanity, willing to offer his son for our salvation. It's not about punishment, but about restoring the broken relationship.