The notion of absolute freedom is a myth because, at some level, we are all under the authority and control of others—parents, teachers, bosses, and government officials. In the spiritual realm, Scripture locates all under one of two masters: sin or righteousness. The master one serves determines how one lives in the world and where […]

The glorious gospel of salvation by grace can be misunderstood. One may erroneously infer that grace gives license to sin. But Paul dismisses such an idea as outrageous, arguing that believers died to sin and are alive to God. Holiness necessarily flows from justification.

Adam and Christ stand as the two representative leaders of humanity. But there the comparison ends. Adam’s disobedience resulted in death and condemnation for all his descendants, but Christ’s obedience resulted in justification and eternal life for His own. Those who are in Christ have every reason then to hope in future salvation.

It is inexplicable that Christians should ever tire of hearing the good news of the Gospel, concerning God’s saving love in Jesus Christ for sinners. Romans 5:6–11 reiterates this point: God demonstrates His love for us in the cross of Christ and this leads to assurance and joy.