Introduction:

1. Paul anticipated a likely objection to the doctrine of salvation by grace.

2. In his arguments, he highlighted another remarkable blessing in Christ.

Discussion:

I. Shall We Continue in Sin…?

A. Paul knew some might twist his teachings in Romans 5:12-21.

B. Many have distorted God’s grace to excuse sin (cf. Jude 4).

C. Grace ought to deter sin, not prompt it (cf. Romans 2:4; 1 John 17-2:2).

II. Dead To Sin

A. Conversion to Christ renders us dead to sin (vv. 2, 11; Galatians 2:20; 5:24; 6:14; Colossians 3:5; 1 Peter 2:24).

B. Paul showed the absurdity of being dead to sin while living in it.

C. Baptism into Christ unites us in the likeness of His death to sin thereby freeing us from slavery to it (vv. 3-7).

III. Alive To God in Christ

A. Jesus’ story did not end with His death, so neither does ours.

B. As we are united in His death through baptism, so we are united in the likeness of His resurrection (vv. 4-5, 8-11).

C. In Christ, we begin a new life (vs. 4; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Galatians 2:20).

IV. Sin’s Lost Dominion

A. As death no longer has dominion over Him, so sin no longer has dominion over us (vv. 9-14; cf. Romans 7:21-8:4).

B. Because God has lifted the curse of the law, we are now free from sin’s dominion (cf. Galatians 3:10-14; Romans 5:20; 7:7-12).

1. The Law of Moses highlighted the need for Christ’s atoning sacrifice.

2. His death enabled us to die to sin, so that we might live to God.

3. God’s goodness fuels us to victory (Romans 2:4; 2 Corinthians 5:14-15).

4. This freedom from sin and death is only on those who were baptized into Christ and His death (vv. 3-7; Galatians 3:26-27).