What does Romans 5:20 mean?

Explanation

Romans 5:20 is a verse from the New Testament of the Christian Bible, written by the Apostle Paul to the believers in Rome.

The verse literally states that the Law was given so that people would become more aware of their transgressions, as the Law defines sin. The "offense" refers to sin, and "abound" suggests it increased or became more apparent.

However, Paul emphasizes that as sin increased, God's grace (undeserved favor and love) increased even more.

The deeper meaning behind this verse suggests a profound truth about the nature of God's grace: it is more powerful than sin.

It implies that as human beings became increasingly aware of their sinfulness through the Law, God's grace was more than sufficient to cover, forgive, and overcome all sin.

Historical Context

Romans was written by Paul likely around A.D. 57, while he was in Corinth.

The historical context for the letter to the Romans is within the Roman Empire's setting, where varied religious and philosophical beliefs abounded, and Paul's audience was both Jewish and Gentile Christians.

The Jews had the Law of Moses and might have relied on it for their righteousness.

In contrast, the Gentiles were considered lawless. Through this verse, Paul attempts to unify understanding among believers that both groups are under sin and in need of God's grace.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints see Romans 5:20 in various lights:

• Traditional Reformation Theology would emphasize the doctrine of sola gratia (grace alone), indicating that salvation comes solely through God's grace, not human merit.
• Catholic Theology might view this verse as supportive of the crucial role of grace in salvation while also underlining the importance of cooperation with that grace through faith and works.
• Arminian Theology tends to emphasize human free will and would likely see this verse as highlighting the availability of grace to all who choose to accept it.
• Calvinist Theology would concentrate on the sovereignty of God and might interpret this verse as illustrating the idea of irresistible grace, that God's grace effectively draws those He has chosen to salvation.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse can be applied in several ways:

1. Awareness of Sin: Recognizing that the Law and moral guidelines help us become aware of our shortcomings and our need for divine assistance.
2. Dependence on Grace: Encouraging believers to rely not on their own efforts to attain righteousness but on the grace offered through faith in Jesus Christ.
3. Hope and Comfort: Offering assurance that no matter how great one's sins are, God's grace is greater and capable of forgiveness.
4. Love and Forgiveness: As God's grace abounds over sin, individuals are inspired to show grace, love, and forgiveness to others.

Cross-References

• Ephesians 2:8-9: "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast."
• Romans 3:20: "Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin."
• Romans 6:14: "For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, key words gain deeper significance:

• "Law" (νόμος, nomos): Often used to refer to the Law of Moses, encompassing the first five books of the Old Testament (Torah).
• "Offence" (παράπτωμα, paraptōma): Means a fall or a false step, signifying sin or transgression.
• "Abounded" (ἐπλεόνασεν, epleonasen): To increase or multiply, giving a sense that transgression became more extensive.
• "Grace" (χάρις, charis): Here, it is the unmerited favor and loving-kindness of God towards humanity.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing this Christian concept to other religious traditions:

• In Judaism, there is an emphasis on following the Law (Torah), but also on God's merciful character as seen through His forgiveness when people repent.
• In Islam, the law (Shariah) and God's mercy are also key components, with an understanding that Allah is merciful and forgiving.
• Ancient mythologies often depicted a transactional form of justice with less of an emphasis on grace; divine favor often had to be earned through acts or sacrifices.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychology might relate to Romans 5:20 through the concept of acknowledging one's imperfections and the therapeutic notion that acceptance can lead to personal growth.

However, science does not typically speak to the metaphysical concept of sin or the theological idea of grace.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and theologians offer insights on Romans 5:20:

• John Stott notes that the Law reveals sin and provokes it, necessitating grace that not only forgives but also reigns through righteousness.
• Douglas Moo argues that the Law increases sin not by being evil but by exposing it, entrenching humans more deeply in it due to their rebellious nature.
• N.T.

Wright suggests that the verse demonstrates the victory of grace: just as sin took hold through the law, so grace superabounds through the righteous act of Jesus.