Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Romans 5:12-21

Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Reading of Romans 5:12-21

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

In Romans 5:12-21, we read this passage as a profound exposition of the federal headship of Adam and Christ, central to our covenant theology. Adam, through the covenant of works, brought sin and death to all humanity; Christ, the second Adam, through the covenant of grace, brings righteousness and life to his elect. This text underscores the imputation of Adam's sin to all his descendants and the imputation of Christ's righteousness to all in him. The Reformed tradition sees this passage as a pivotal articulation of the doctrines of original sin and justification by faith, grounded in the sovereign grace of God.

Key Language Decisions

The Greek word 'παράπτωμα' (paraptoma, 'trespass') in verse 15 emphasizes the deliberate deviation of humanity from God's command through Adam. The tradition emphasizes 'δικαίωμα' (dikaioma, 'act of righteousness') in verse 18, highlighting the singular, definitive act of Christ's obedience. These terms are crucial because they affirm the imputation principle central to our understanding of federal headship and covenant theology, where Christ's obedience is reckoned to believers.

Where Traditions Diverge

This Reformed reading diverges from Arminian traditions which may not emphasize the federal headship of Adam and Christ in the same manner, often focusing more on individual choice and prevenient grace. Unlike Catholicism, which emphasizes inherent righteousness infused through sacraments, we assert imputed righteousness through faith alone, aligning with the doctrine of justification by faith as articulated in the Westminster Confession.

Pastoral Application

Preaching this passage, we emphasize the assurance that our standing before God rests not on personal merit but on the righteousness of Christ imputed to us. In pastoral care, we remind our congregation of the unshakeable nature of God’s sovereign grace, offering comfort that our salvation is secured in Christ's definitive act. Encouraging a life of gratitude and obedience, we call our people to live as those who have been transferred from the realm of death to the realm of life. Our congregations expect to hear the hope and assurance found in the doctrine of perseverance: God will complete the good work he has begun in us.

Cross-References: 1 Corinthians 15:21-22; Genesis 3:6-7; Romans 3:23-24; Hebrews 9:15; Isaiah 53:11

Doctrinal Connections: Original Sin; Imputation; Federal Headship; Justification by Faith; Covenant of Grace