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Traditional Lens Commentary: Romans 5:12-21

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Traditional Lens Reading of Romans 5:12-21

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read this passage as a foundational explanation of original sin and the grace of God through Jesus Christ. Paul contrasts Adam's sin, which brought death into the world, with the righteousness of Christ, which brings life and justification. We see this as a clear depiction of federal headship — where Adam's sin is imputed to all humanity, and Christ's righteousness is imputed to believers — emphasizing the need for the substitutionary atonement of Christ on the cross.

Key Language Decisions

In Romans 5:12, the Greek word 'hamartia' (sin) and 'thanatos' (death) are crucial, as they highlight the universality of sin and its consequence. The phrase 'eph' hō pantes hēmarton' (because all sinned) emphasizes that all humanity shares in Adam's sin. This tradition also highlights the use of 'dikaiosynē' (righteousness) in verse 17, underscoring justification by faith as a gift through Jesus Christ.

Where Traditions Diverge

Our tradition diverges from Eastern Orthodoxy, which tends to emphasize theosis over penal substitutionary atonement, and from liberal theology, which often views original sin metaphorically rather than as a historical and theological reality. These differences matter because they affect our understanding of human nature, the necessity of Christ's atoning work, and the way salvation is appropriated.

Pastoral Application

A pastor in our tradition should apply this text by emphasizing the hope and assurance found in Christ's redemptive work. Congregants should be reminded of their need for salvation due to original sin and the sufficiency of Christ's sacrifice on the cross. We must urge believers to find their identity not in Adam, but in Christ, highlighting the transformative power of being born again. This passage calls us to evangelize, as it underscores the urgency of sharing the gospel with those still under the curse of sin.

Cross-References: Genesis 3:17-19; 1 Corinthians 15:21-22; 2 Corinthians 5:21; Ephesians 2:1-5; Hebrews 9:28

Doctrinal Connections: original sin; substitutionary atonement; justification by faith; federal headship; imputed righteousness

Topics & Themes

original sinsubstitutionary atonementjustification by faithfederal headshipimputed righteousness

Scripture References

Romans 5:12-21

Best Used In

introductionexpositionapplication

Audience

pastor

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