“For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:17).
Trivia time: What do these songs have in common?
- “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
- “All Along the Watchtower” by Jimi Hendrix
- “Respect” by Aretha Franklin
- “With a Little Help from My Friends” by The Beatles
Answer: The covers of these songs are considered better than the originals.
Throughout history, we encounter this very phenomenon where something is created and then something bigger and better overtakes it. This is part of the human story. This is also part of the story of the Bible.
In our reading for today, we encounter Paul talking about this very thing. Paul reaches all the way back to the beginning in Genesis 3, where sin entered the world and Adam “caused death to rule over many.” Sin brings death, but God does not just leave it there; God desires to overcome this sin and death. And how does God do it? Through Jesus Christ.
Jesus’ role in this feels like the world’s best cover song. He takes sin and death and turns them into forgiveness and life. Jesus takes this stain on the world and creates something beautiful. Just like Jesus taught his disciples to pray, he had the goal of bringing heaven to earth. Jesus did this through his ministry to those in need and through his death on the cross. Adam wrote the song of sin and death, but Jesus took this song and rewrote it into something glorifying to God. We are all offered righteousness through Christ. We can “triumph over sin and death” because of Jesus and his sacrifice.
And now we are called to live this out to the world around us. We are to love and care for others, showing them God’s “wonderful grace” that now rules this world. Now is your turn to sing this song of love and redemption. Your sins have been forgiven through Christ. Go and sing this from the mountaintops!
Reflection:
- How does understanding the contrast between Adam’s sin and Christ’s gift of grace deepen your appreciation of God’s forgiveness?
- In what ways can you extend the same grace and forgiveness that God has given you to those who have wronged you?
- Romans 5:21 speaks of God’s grace reigning. How can you let grace reign in your daily life and interactions?