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The Path to Repentance “In part three of our series, we examine the consequences of sine and the essential steps of repentance, and turning back to God as we move forward on our ‘Journey to Redemption.'”
Bible Verse: Romans 6:23
“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
The Consequence of Sin
Continuing our journey through salvation truths, we come to Romans 6:23. It contrasts sin’s consequences with hope through Christ. “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” This verse shows the gravity of sin and the promise of eternal life.
Paul’s letter to the Romans highlights sin’s seriousness and its result: death. The term “wages” means something earned, showing death is the rightful result of sin. This death is not only physical but also spiritual, signifying eternal separation from God. James 1:15 says, “Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.” This shows sin’s deadly nature, progressing from temptation to sin to death.
The Gift of Eternal Life
Albert Barnes’ Notes on the Bible clarifies that “wages” implies what is earned or deserved, while “gift” highlights God’s grace in offering salvation freely, not based on our merit but on Christ’s sacrifice. This contrast between what we deserve and what God offers is a powerful reminder of His mercy and love.
Matthew Henry’s Commentary elaborates on the significance of eternal life as God’s gift. It is a gift that cannot be earned but is given freely through faith in Jesus Christ. This gift of eternal life stands in stark contrast to the death earned by sin, emphasizing the generosity and grace of God.
The Path to Eternal Life
The New Testament consistently reinforces this theme. John 3:16, one of the most well-known verses, states, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” This verse underscores God’s love and the provision of eternal life through faith in Jesus.
The hope of salvation is available to all who seek it in the Biblical manner. Ephesians 2:8-9 assures us, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” This passage highlights that salvation is a gift, received by faith, and not something we can earn through our efforts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Romans 6:23 presents a stark contrast between the consequences of sin and the hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ. The wages of sin is death. God offers the gift of eternal life to all who believe in His Son. This profound truth calls us to recognize the seriousness of sin and the incredible grace of God. Let us embrace this gift of eternal life, offered freely through faith in Jesus Christ, and walk in the assurance of His salvation.
For further reading:
What is “sin that leads to death” in 1 John 5:16? (Link)
