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Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Commentary: Romans 6:1-11

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Reformed (Presbyterian) Lens Reading of Romans 6:1-11

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Romans 6:1-11 as a profound exposition of our union with Christ in both his death and resurrection. This passage, within the redemptive-historical context, highlights the transformative power of sovereign grace. It declares that through God's decree, those who are in Christ have died to sin and are now alive to God in Christ Jesus. This is not a mere moral exhortation but the outworking of the covenant of grace, where we are assured of our new identity in Christ, sealed by the Spirit.

Key Language Decisions

In the Greek text, the term 'baptism' (βάπτισμα) in verse 3 is crucial, as it signifies our union with Christ's death and resurrection. This supports our understanding of baptism as a means of grace, not just a symbolic act. The verb 'consider' (λογίζεσθε) in verse 11 emphasizes a reckoning or accounting, aligning with our doctrine that we are to live out the reality of being 'dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.' This is a positional truth grounded in God's sovereign work.

Where Traditions Diverge

Unlike Arminian traditions, which might emphasize human cooperation in sanctification, we assert that Romans 6 speaks to the monergistic nature of sanctification rooted in our union with Christ. Lutheran interpretations may focus on the simul justus et peccator (simultaneously saint and sinner), whereas we emphasize the definitive break with sin's dominion due to our covenantal union with Christ, ensuring our perseverance by sovereign grace.

Pastoral Application

As pastors, we are called to remind our congregation of their identity in Christ — dead to sin and alive to God. This passage assures us that our sanctification is secure in the covenant of grace. We should encourage believers to live out this reality, not through human effort, but by relying on the means of grace. We must emphasize the assurance and hope that come from knowing that our salvation and sanctification rest in God's sovereign decree, encouraging our flock to walk in newness of life with confidence and joy.

Cross-References: Galatians 2:20; Colossians 2:12-13; 1 Corinthians 15:22; 2 Timothy 2:11; Ephesians 2:5-6

Doctrinal Connections: Union with Christ; The Covenant of Grace; Sovereign Grace; Effectual Calling; Perseverance of the Saints

Topics & Themes

Union with ChristThe Covenant of GraceSovereign GraceEffectual CallingPerseverance of the Saints

Scripture References

Romans 6:1-11

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