Justification: A Study in RomansSample

What does it say?

Believers have been crucified and resurrected with Christ. They are now both dead to sin and alive in the Savior.

What does it mean?

Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection replaced the power of sin with the power to live for God’s purposes. Jesus not only died for sin, but He also died to sin – breaking its power. That means that sin and death have no power over anyone united with Him. Those outside of Christ are controlled by their sinful nature, like slaves in chains. Believers are dead to sin and free to live completely for God. Followers of Christ can choose obedience by offering their bodies to God rather than to sin. Jesus replaces sin as the believer’s Master. The old master paid wages of death, but Jesus offers freedom, holiness, and eternal life. God’s grace is a reason to obey, not an excuse to sin.

How should I respond?

Being dead to sin doesn’t mean you are sinless, but it does mean you should sin less. Choosing to obey the Lord is an act of your will. Willful sin takes advantage of God’s grace. What area of your life is still alive to sin rather than alive to Christ? Is there a situation you need to avoid because it sets you up to sin? Realize that as a follower of Christ, you are just as dead to that sin as Jesus is. Whatever you submit becomes your master. Who will be your master today?