Lutheran Lens Commentary: Romans 5:12-21

Lutheran Lens Reading of Romans 5:12-21

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Romans 5:12-21 through the lens of Law and Gospel, seeing the stark contrast between death through Adam and life through Christ. The passage powerfully illustrates our theology of original sin and the bondage of the will, as all humanity is implicated in Adam's sin. Yet, the Gospel shines brilliantly here — through Christ's obedience, the many are made righteous. Justification by faith alone is central, as Christ’s righteousness is imputed to us, not through our works but through His gracious gift. This passage underscores our identity as simultaneously saint and sinner (simul justus et peccator).

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek, the use of 'eph' hōi' (ἐφ' ᾧ) in verse 12 is crucial, traditionally translated as 'because' or 'on account of.' This supports our reading of original sin — sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin. The contrast between 'paraptōma' (παράπτωμα, trespass) and 'dikaiōma' (δικαίωμα, act of righteousness) highlights the Law/Gospel distinction, showing how Christ’s act overturns Adam's. We emphasize the received text's focus on Christ's gracious act as the means of our justification.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike Reformed traditions, which may emphasize federal headship in a covenantal framework, we focus on the forensic nature of justification and the imputation of Christ’s righteousness. Roman Catholic interpretations may stress grace as infused rather than imputed; we maintain the declarative nature of justification as central. These differences matter because they affect how we understand human ability and the nature of grace — ours is wholly passive, emphasizing God’s unilateral action in Christ.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this text, we should emphasize the totality of Christ's work for us — it is Christ's obedience, not ours, that justifies. Congregants should hear of their baptismal identity, where they are reborn into Christ’s righteousness despite the old Adam's sin. This passage comforts the conscience burdened by sin, assuring believers that their righteousness is secure in Christ alone. A Lutheran congregation expects to hear the pure Gospel, untainted by demands for human action, and the assurance that they live daily as both saint and sinner, held firmly in God's grace.

Cross-References: Genesis 3:17-19; 1 Corinthians 15:21-22; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Galatians 3:13-14; Philippians 3:9

Doctrinal Connections: original sin; justification by faith alone; simul justus et peccator; the bondage of the will; imputed righteousness