What does Romans 6:7 mean?

Explanation

"For he that is dead is freed from sin." (Romans 6:7, KJV) involves both a literal and metaphorical understanding within the Christian context. Literally, it can be interpreted that those who have died are no longer subject to sin because they are no longer living.

However, the deeper, metaphorical meaning revolves around the concept of spiritual death and resurrection that is a pivotal theme in Christianity.

In this light, a person who has died in a spiritual sense, meaning they have died to their old life of sin through faith in Jesus Christ, has been freed from the power and penalty of sin.

Paul, the author, is not advocating physical death as an escape from sin, but rather he is highlighting the transformation that occurs when a believer is baptized into Christ. The act of baptism symbolizes dying and rising with Christ, an internal death to sin and a new life lived for God.

Historical Context

Romans was written by the Apostle Paul around 57 AD to the Christians in Rome.

During this time, the early church was grappling with many theological questions about the nature of salvation, the role of the Law (of Moses), and the relationship between Jews and Gentiles in the church.

The historical context of Romans 6:7 is part of a larger discussion in which Paul seeks to explain the implications of a believer’s union with Christ, particularly how this union affects their relationship to sin and the law.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse is significant in understanding the Christian concept of salvation and sanctification. Different theological perspectives interpret this verse in several ways:

• Calvinist/Reformed View: It holds that this verse emphasizes the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints, meaning that those who are truly saved will inevitably be sanctified and freed from the bondage of sin.
• Arminian View: It may interpret this verse as emphasizing the believer's freedom from sin's dominance but acknowledges the Christian's ability to choose to sin or not.
• Catholic View: This verse might be seen in light of the sacraments, particularly baptism, which they believe washes away original sin, thereby freeing the faithful from the power of sin.

Overall, there is a consensus among Christian viewpoints that this verse deals with breaking the hold that sin has on an individual.

Practical Applications

In a practical sense, Romans 6:7 can be applied by encouraging believers to remember their new identity in Christ.

It suggests that one does not have to be enslaved to past mistakes or habitual sins. The understanding that in Christ one is spiritually dead to sin can empower individuals to live holy and upright lives.

Cross-References

• Romans 6:4 - "Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life."
• Galatians 2:20 - "I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me."
• 1 Peter 2:24 - "Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed."

Language Study

The Greek word translated as "freed" in the King James Version is "dikaioō," which more generally means to be justified, acquitted, or declared righteous. It carries a legal connotation, suggesting that the person is no longer liable to the judgment that sin brings.

"Dead" is from the Greek "apothnēskō", which means to die off, typically in a physical sense but often used metaphorically in the New Testament to describe a spiritual death to sin.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparing Romans 6:7 with other ancient religious texts and myths, one may find parallels in themes of self-denial and transformation. In many religious traditions, rites of passage often symbolize a form of death and rebirth, akin to the Christian baptism metaphor used by Paul.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, the concept of death as the cessation of biological function is clear, but the idea of spiritual death and rebirth does not have a scientific basis.

However, psychological and sociological studies may show that changing one’s belief system can significantly alter behavior and lead to what might be termed a 'transformation' of the individual.

Commentaries

Commentators generally agree on the theological significance of this verse in highlighting the believer's break with sin.

For instance:

• John Stott (Anglican cleric) sees this verse as affirming the definitive break with sin that comes with being united with Christ in his death and resurrection.
• Douglas Moo (evangelical scholar) suggests that the emphasis is on the believer's changed status before God, through which they are no longer under sin's dominion.
• **N.T.

Wright (New Testament scholar)** highlights the concept of new creation in Christ, which means that sin has no more power over someone in Christ.

These commentaries stress the transformative aspect of faith in Christ as it pertains to the believer's relationship with sin.