Let’s examine a profound verse from Scripture:
Romans 5:20 (NKJV) – “
Moreover the law entered that the offense might abound. But where sin abounded, grace abounded much more.”
This verse speaks to the heart of God’s redemptive plan. To fully grasp its meaning, we need to explore the nature of sin, the purpose of the law, and the overwhelming generosity of God’s grace through Jesus Christ.
Understanding the Context
The Apostle Paul, in Romans 5, explains how sin entered the world through one man—Adam—and how death followed as a result. But Paul also reveals that through another man—Jesus Christ—life and righteousness became available to all who believe.
Romans 5:12 (NKJV) – “
Therefore, just as through one man sin entered the world, and death through sin, and thus death spread to all men, because all sinned…”
When Paul says, “where sin abounded, grace abounded much more,” he is emphasizing that no matter how great the sin, God’s grace is greater still. It’s not a license to sin, but a powerful assurance that God’s forgiveness surpasses human failure.
The Role of the Law
The law of Moses was introduced not to solve the problem of sin but to expose it—to make people aware of how deeply embedded sin is in human nature.
Galatians 3:24 (NKJV) – “
Therefore the law was our tutor to bring us to Christ, that we might be justified by faith.”
By increasing awareness of sin, the law prepared the way for people to recognize their need for a Savior. As sin became more apparent, the need for divine intervention became more urgent.
Real-Life Examples to Understand Grace
1. Public vs. Private Transportation
Imagine the cost of traveling from one city to another. If you take a public bus, it’s relatively cheap because the cost is shared among many passengers. But if you drive alone, you pay for fuel, maintenance, and other costs—likely ten times more.
In the same way, salvation is extremely costly—paid in full by the blood of Jesus (1 Corinthians 6:20). But because many need it, God has made it freely available through His grace.
2. Free Medication for Widespread Illnesses
Diseases like tuberculosis or COVID-19 prompted governments to distribute expensive medicine for free. Why? Because they affected many people, and preventing a larger crisis was worth the cost.
Likewise, when sin spread to all of humanity, God responded—not by condemning the world—but by offering salvation freely through Christ.
John 3:17 (NKJV) –
“For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.”
Why Didn’t Jesus Come Immediately After Adam Sinned?
Some may wonder why Jesus didn’t come right after Adam’s fall. Theologically, this is significant: the fullness of time had not yet come.
Galatians 4:4-5 (NKJV) – “
But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son… to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons.”
God’s grace was revealed when the human condition had worsened—so the depth of His mercy could be fully seen and appreciated.
Grace Does Not Excuse Sin—It Transforms the Sinner
While grace is greater than sin, it does not mean sin is to be taken lightly. On the contrary, those who receive grace are called to repent and live righteously.
Romans 6:1-2 (NKJV) – “
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? Certainly not! How shall we who died to sin live any longer in it?”
Salvation is received by:
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Believing in the Lord Jesus Christ (John 3:16)
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Repenting of sins (Acts 2:38)
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Being baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins (Acts 2:38)
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Receiving the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38; Romans 8:9)
This is the biblical path to entering into the grace of God.
Responding to Grace Today
If the Holy Spirit is convicting your heart today—whether it’s about your lifestyle, appearance, habits, or attitudes—don’t harden your heart.
Hebrews 10:29 (NKJV) – “
Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot… and insulted the Spirit of grace?”
God’s grace is available now, but the door won’t remain open forever. The day of judgment is coming.
Hebrews 3:15 (NKJV) – “
Today, if you will hear His voice, do not harden your hearts…”
Need Help?
If you’ve not yet received Jesus Christ as your Savior or would like to be baptized according to Scripture, reach out to us. We are here to guide you to a local church or pastor who can assist you wherever you are.
Maranatha – the Lord is coming soon!
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