What does Romans 6:14 mean?

Explanation

Romans 6:14 is a verse from the Apostle Paul's letter to the Romans in which he addresses the nature of sin and the transformative power of God's grace.

In essence, this verse provides a reassurance to believers that sin does not control their lives because they are not under the strictures of Old Testament Law, but rather under the grace provided through Jesus Christ.

The literal meaning implies that the Law has less power to dictate behavior than the grace of God, which offers forgiveness and the ability to overcome sin.

The deeper, theological meaning suggests a shift from legalism to a relationship-based salvation where grace empowers believers to live righteous lives.

Historical Context

Romans is an epistle written by the Apostle Paul around AD 57 to the church in Rome.

The early Christian community comprised both Jewish and Gentile converts, a mix that often led to disputes over the relevance of Jewish Law for Christian life.

Against this backdrop, Paul crafted a narrative that underscored the universality of sin and the availability of grace to all believers, irrespective of their adherence to the Law.

This verse comes just after Paul has explained that believers are baptized into the death and resurrection of Jesus, symbolizing a break from the bondage of sin.

Theological Insights

From a theological viewpoint, Romans 6:14 speaks to the doctrine of sanctification, the process by which believers grow to become more like Christ.

It conveys the idea that grace is not only about salvation but also about living a life that resists sin.

Reformed and Protestant theologians tend to emphasize the role of grace as freeing believers from the legalism of the Law.

Catholic theology also acknowledges the role of grace but incorporates it within a broader framework of sacramental life and ongoing cooperation with God's will.

Liberation theologians might view this as a mandate for social justice, asserting that grace empowers the marginalized to overcome systemic sin.

Practical Applications

Practically speaking, this verse encourages individuals to lean on their faith in Christ and the grace given to them to confront and overcome personal sin.

It's a call to not get discouraged by failure or bound by guilt, but rather to seek spiritual growth and renewal.

This can impact daily decision-making, habits, and interactions with others by fostering a mindset rooted in grace rather than a fear of condemnation.

Cross-References

• Romans 6:1-2: "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid.

How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?"

• Romans 8:1: "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit."
• Galatians 5:1: "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage."
• 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."

Language Study

In the original Greek text, the phrase "shall not have dominion over" is translated from "κυριεύσει" (kyrieusei), which conveys the meaning of lordship or reigning power.

The term "under the law" translates from "ὑπὸ νόμον" (hypo nomon), referring to being beneath or subject to the Jewish Law.

The word "grace" is translated from "χάρις" (charis), implying a favor, goodwill, or kindness that is undeserved. This word reflects the unconditional acceptance offered by God to humanity.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing Romans 6:14 with other ancient myths and religious texts, one might note contrasts in how sin and morality are treated.

Many ancient mythologies, such as those in Greek and Roman cultures, did not offer a clear path of redemption from wrongdoing that was comparable to the Christian concept of grace.

In other religious interpretations, such as in Judaism and Islam, adherence to the law and prescribed actions are typically emphasized as central to righteousness and divine favor.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse does not directly intersect with scientific understandings, the principles of psychology might provide insights into how beliefs in grace versus judgment can affect human behavior.

Cognitive science studies suggest that belief systems play a significant role in emotional well-being, moral decision-making, and behavior regulation, underscoring the potential for theological concepts such as grace to positively impact individual psychology.

Commentaries

Commentators on Romans 6:14 offer a range of insights.

For instance, John Stott, a prominent evangelical theologian, discusses the idea that Christian freedom is not freedom to sin but freedom from sin, emphasizing the transformative nature of grace.

N.T.

Wright, a New Testament scholar, calls attention to the fact that grace redefines how believers should view themselves and their ability to pursue holiness.

Meanwhile, the Catholic tradition, represented by commentators such as Scott Hahn, suggests that Paul is articulating the new life Christians are called to live, which is supported by God's sacramental grace.

These varying commentaries underscore the richness of interpretation available for this verse.