Romans 5:19: For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous.
Here Paul sums up his argument on federal headship: Adam’s one act of disobedience made all sinners—not just possessors of a sin nature, but guilty of the act of sin. Christ’s obedience—His death and resurrection—makes it possible for God to declare righteous the sinner who believes in Him. 1
They are not simply declared righteous, but they will be made righteous in the process of sanctification, culminating in glorification in God’s presence. The word “made” means “stand constituted as,” the same verb used in the first half of verse 19 in the words “were made sinners.” 2
Application
- What seems to be your greatest act of disobedience?
- What seems to be your greatest act of obedience?
Prayer
Lord, help me to become known for my obedience and not my disobedience.
1. McGee, J. V. (1991). Thru the Bible commentary: The Epistles (Romans 1-8) (electronic ed., Vol. 42). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.
2. Walvoord, John F., & Zuck, R. B., Dallas Theological Seminary. (1985). The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.