Romans 5:19
Verse
Context
Death in Adam, Life in Christ
18So then, just as one trespass brought condemnation for all men, so also one act of righteousness brought justification and life for all men.19For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For, as by one man's disobedience, etc. - The explanation of this verse has been anticipated in the foregoing.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For, &c.--better, "For as by the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, even so by the obedience of the One shall the many be made righteous." On this great verse observe: First, By the "obedience" of Christ here is plainly not meant more than what divines call His active obedience, as distinguished from His sufferings and death; it is the entire work of Christ in its obediential character. Our Lord Himself represents even His death as His great act of obedience to the Father: "This commandment (that is, to lay down and resume His life) have I received of My Father" (Joh 10:8). Second, The significant word twice rendered made, does not signify to work a change upon a person or thing, but to constitute or ordain, as will be seen from all the places where it is used. Here, accordingly, it is intended to express that judicial act which holds men, in virtue of their connection with Adam, as sinners; and, in connection with Christ, as righteous. Third, The change of tense from the past to the future--"as through Adam we were made sinners, so through Christ we shall be made righteous"--delightfully expresses the enduring character of the act, and of the economy to which such acts belong, in contrast with the for-ever-past ruin of believers in Adam. (See on Rom 6:5). Fourth, The "all men" of Rom 5:18 and the "many" of Rom 5:19 are the same party, though under a slightly different aspect. In the latter case, the contrast is between the one representative (Adam--Christ) and the many whom he represented; in the former case, it is between the one head (Adam--Christ) and the human race, affected for death and life respectively by the actings of that one. Only in this latter case it is the redeemed family of man that is alone in view; it is humanity as actually lost, but also as actually saved, as ruined and recovered. Such as refuse to fall in with the high purpose of God to constitute His Son a "second Adam," the Head of a new race, and as impenitent and unbelieving finally perish, have no place in this section of the Epistle, whose sole object is to show how God repairs in the second Adam the evil done by the first. (Thus the doctrine of universal restoration has no place here. Thus too the forced interpretation by which the "justification of all" is made to mean a justification merely in possibility and offer to all, and the "justification of the many" to mean the actual justification of as many as believe [ALFORD, &c.], is completely avoided. And thus the harshness of comparing a whole fallen family with a recovered part is got rid of. However true it be in fact that part of mankind is not saved, this is not the aspect in which the subject is here presented. It is totals that are compared and contrasted; and it is the same total in two successive conditions--namely, the human race as ruined in Adam and recovered in Christ).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners,.... Agreeably to this the Jews say (g), that "for the sin of the first man, all that are born of him, , "become wicked".'' This is the sum of what is said in the foregoing verses, that as by Adam's sin all his posterity are made sinners, and so are brought under a sentence of condemnation; in like manner by the obedience of Christ, all his seed are made righteous, and come under a sentence of justification of life: the persons made sinners are said to be "many", in opposition to the "one man", by whose disobedience they became so, and because there is an exception of one, even Jesus Christ; and mean all the natural descendants of Adam, who are many, and are so called, to answer to the subjects of justification in the next clause: what they are made sinners by, is "the disobedience of one man, Adam"; and by the first and single disobedience of his, in eating the fruit of the forbidden tree, by which they "were made sinners": the meaning of which is not, that they became sufferers for it, or subject to death on the account of it; the word used will not bear such a sense, but signifies men guilty of sin, and sometimes the worst and chief of sinners; besides, the apostle had expressed that before; add to this, that the sons of Adam could not be sufferers for his sin, or subject to death on account of it, if they were not made sinners by it, or involved in the guilt or it: and though the posterity of Adam are habitually sinners, that is, derive corrupt nature from Adam, yet this is not meant here; but that they are become guilty, through the imputation of his sin to them; for it is by the disobedience of another they are made sinners, which must be by the imputation of that disobedience to them; he sinned, and they sinned in him, when they had as yet no actual existence; which could be no other way, than by imputation, as he was reckoned and accounted their head and representative, and they reckoned and accounted in him, and so have sinned in him. This is also evident, from the sentence of condemnation and death passing upon all men for it; and even upon those, who had not actually sinned; to which may be added, that Adam's posterity are made sinners through his disobedience, in the same way as Christ's seed are made righteous by his obedience, which is by the imputation of it to them; so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous; not by their own obedience; nor by their own obedience and Christ's together; but by his sole and single obedience to the law of God: and the persons made righteous by it are not all the posterity of Adam, and yet not a few of them; but "many", even all the elect of God, and seed of Christ; these are all made righteous in the sight of God, are justified from all their sins, and entitled to eternal life and happiness. (g) Tzeror Hammor, fol. 97. 1.
Romans 5:19
Death in Adam, Life in Christ
18So then, just as one trespass brought condemnation for all men, so also one act of righteousness brought justification and life for all men.19For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Obedience, the Condition of Blessing
By Alan Redpath3.6K55:13ObedienceDEU 11:27ROM 5:19PHP 2:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's will. He highlights how Jesus' obedience to God's will led to his fullness and power. The preacher also emphasizes that obedience to God leads to further revelation of His will, while disobedience hinders spiritual growth. He uses the verse Romans 5:19 to explain how through one man's disobedience (Adam), many were made sinners, but through the obedience of Jesus, many can be made righteous. The preacher encourages Christians to work out their salvation with fear and trembling, knowing that it is God who works in them to will and do His good pleasure.
Word of Reconciliation
By Leonard Ravenhill2.2K1:04:05ReconciliationMAT 4:19ROM 5:191CO 2:92CO 5:102CO 5:18EPH 4:8In this sermon, the preacher reflects on the challenges and uncertainties that Christians face in life. He emphasizes that despite the difficulties, the best is yet to come for believers. He uses the example of the apostle Paul, who went from being a prisoner to a pilot, to illustrate how Christians can remain steadfast in the face of adversity. The preacher also highlights the importance of esteeming the reproach of Christ and being focused on eternal matters rather than worldly distractions. He urges Christians to be aware of the lost state of many people and to take responsibility for sharing the gospel with them.
Justification by Faith Alone - Part 2
By C.H. Spurgeon2.1K46:33GEN 15:6MAT 6:33ROM 5:19ROM 8:18GAL 3:7EPH 1:62TI 3:15In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of understanding that entering into a relationship with God does not mean an end to troubles and challenges. He uses the example of Abraham to illustrate this point. Despite being justified and blessed by God, Abraham was informed that his descendants would face oppression and affliction for four hundred years. The preacher emphasizes the need for believers to have faith in God's covenant, even in the midst of trials. He also highlights the significance of focusing on Jesus and growing in grace and knowledge of Him.
The Place and Meaning of Jesus Christ in Human History - Part 1
By T. Austin-Sparks2.0K1:07:39Human HistoryMAT 6:33ROM 5:191CO 15:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of preaching the word of God and highlights the central theme of Christ in Paul's preaching. The speaker also discusses the significance of understanding history and the forces that shape the world. They suggest that God allows humanity to make choices, which ultimately lead to the consequences of sin. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the New Testament's purpose of explaining Jesus Christ and encourages readers to consider what each passage says about him.
Definition and Nature of Original Sin
By John Murray2.0K51:05Original SinROM 3:24ROM 5:12ROM 5:19ROM 5:21ROM 6:23ROM 8:1ROM 8:3In this sermon, the preacher discusses the three-fold nature of what is pleasing to God: love to God, the will of God, and the glory of God. He emphasizes that without these three elements, our actions are displeasing to God. The preacher then moves on to discuss the infutation of Adam's sin, explaining that it is the total absence of what is well pleasing to God. He urges the audience to keep the five main subdivisions of the doctrine of sin distinct in their minds and to understand the importance of each one.
Adamic Administration - Biblical Data, Nature, and Condition
By John Murray1.8K50:23Original SinGEN 2:17MAT 6:33JHN 8:12ROM 5:12ROM 5:191CO 15:221CO 15:45In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the principle of solidarity in God's government. The corporate relationship and the principle of solidarity are integral to the constitution of the nation and humanity. The preacher highlights that the consequences of our actions, both good and evil, have an impact on the corporate relationship we have with others. The sermon also discusses the correlation between Adam and Christ, stating that they have unique and incomparable relations to the human race. The preacher emphasizes the need for obedience and fulfillment of conditions in order to maintain a successful relationship with God.
Handling Criticism
By Neil T. Anderson1.6K1:01:44CriticismPSA 119:51PRO 9:10ROM 5:192PE 3:9In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of avoiding isolation in our spiritual journey. He warns that getting isolated and not being accountable to others can lead to trouble. He then introduces four key words: authority, accountability, affirmation, and acceptance, which he believes should be prioritized in our lives. The speaker encourages the audience to be true to themselves and not let others determine their identity. He concludes by highlighting the significance of love as the ultimate goal of Christian education.
Tokens of His Compassion - Part 7
By Leonard Ravenhill1.5K09:48LEV 16:27PSA 22:16ISA 53:3MAT 9:13MRK 14:32JHN 13:1ROM 5:19HEB 13:12This sermon reflects on the deep love of Jesus, contrasting it with the harsh language towards those who misrepresented God. It emphasizes the unique love Jesus had for sinners and the challenge for believers to love everyone. The focus shifts to Jesus' Gethsemane experience, highlighting the intense spiritual struggle and the need for believers to embrace both joy and mourning in their faith journey. The sermon delves into the profound sacrifice and suffering Jesus endured, culminating in his crucifixion outside the city walls, symbolizing his identification with the outcasts and sinners.
Be Obedient and Sin Not
By A.W. Tozer5840:32ObedienceLordship Of ChristPSA 103:20EZK 1:20MAT 11:30JHN 3:4ROM 5:19ROM 10:9EPH 2:21PE 1:21PE 1:141JN 2:3A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of obedience in the Christian life, arguing that true believers are inherently obedient children of God. He explains that salvation cannot exist without obedience, as sin is fundamentally rebellion against divine authority. Tozer critiques the notion that one can accept Christ as Savior without also acknowledging Him as Lord, asserting that such a divided relationship is a misunderstanding of the Gospel. He highlights that both heaven and hell are defined by obedience and disobedience, respectively, urging listeners to fully surrender to God's will. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a return to the understanding that accepting Christ means embracing His lordship and the obligation to obey Him.
The Doctrine of Justification 2. Its Meaning
By A.W. Pink0Legal Status in SalvationJustificationJOB 9:20PSA 51:4PRO 17:15MAT 26:28LUK 18:13ROM 3:30ROM 5:1ROM 5:192CO 5:21EPH 1:7A.W. Pink emphasizes the critical doctrine of justification, explaining it as a legal declaration by God that a sinner is considered righteous based solely on the imputed righteousness of Christ, rather than any inherent goodness. He contrasts the Protestant understanding of justification as a change in legal status with the Roman Catholic view that conflates it with moral transformation. Pink clarifies that justification is distinct from regeneration and sanctification, focusing on the judicial aspect of salvation where believers are acquitted from guilt and accepted into God's favor. He underscores that justification is not merely forgiveness but a declaration that the believer is entitled to eternal life due to Christ's obedience. This understanding is essential for grasping the fullness of salvation and the believer's standing before God.
The First Adam and Last Adam
By T. Austin-Sparks0Spiritual GrowthRedemptionPSA 97:2JHN 3:6ROM 5:19ROM 12:21CO 1:301CO 2:141CO 15:452CO 5:17GAL 4:19PHP 2:13T. Austin-Sparks emphasizes the significance of the contrast between the first Adam and the last Adam, Jesus Christ, in God's redemptive plan. He explains that while the first Adam became a living soul, the last Adam is a life-giving spirit, representing a new creation that begins in heaven. The sermon highlights that through Christ's obedience and perfection, believers are made complete in Him, and the Holy Spirit empowers them to live out this new life. Sparks stresses that spiritual growth involves learning to live in accordance with the Spirit, moving from the natural to the spiritual, and ultimately walking in obedience through the strength of Christ within us.
Postponing Obedience
By A.W. Tozer0ObedienceSalvationMAT 7:21LUK 6:46JHN 14:15ROM 5:19GAL 5:7EPH 2:8HEB 5:9JAS 1:221PE 1:21JN 2:3A.W. Tozer addresses the dangerous heresy within evangelical circles that allows individuals to accept Christ as Savior while postponing their obedience to Him. He emphasizes that true salvation is inseparable from obedience, as highlighted by Peter's description of Christians as 'obedient children.' Tozer argues that the entire Bible supports the notion that genuine obedience is a fundamental requirement of the Christian life, and that the idea of salvation without obedience is fundamentally flawed. He reminds us that disobedience led to humanity's downfall, reinforcing the necessity of immediate and consistent obedience to God.
Obedience; the Victorious Life
By Andrew Murray0ObedienceVictorious Christian LivingJER 7:23JHN 14:15ACT 5:32ROM 5:19ROM 6:18PHP 2:5Andrew Murray emphasizes that obedience is essential for living a victorious Christian life, contrasting it with the common misconception that sin is inevitable for believers. He highlights that true obedience, modeled by Christ, is necessary for receiving the Holy Spirit and experiencing God's power in our lives. Murray urges Christians to recognize their need for a deeper surrender to Christ, which enables them to overcome sin and live in accordance with God's will. He reassures that through faith in Christ's power, believers can achieve a life marked by obedience and victory over sin. Ultimately, he calls for a renewed understanding of sin, surrender, and faith to fully embrace the victorious life promised in Christ.
No Condemnation
By A.W. Pink0GraceAssurance of SalvationISA 53:6ROM 3:25ROM 4:25ROM 5:19ROM 6:14ROM 8:12CO 5:21GAL 2:20EPH 1:6HEB 10:17A.W. Pink emphasizes the profound truth that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, drawing from Romans 8:1. He explains that this declaration is rooted in the believer's union with Christ, which frees them from the guilt and power of sin. Pink contrasts the believer's past state of condemnation under the law with their current position of grace, highlighting the complete removal of guilt through Christ's sacrifice. He reassures that this freedom from condemnation is not based on personal merit but solely on being 'in Christ.' Ultimately, Pink celebrates the assurance that believers are eternally secure from any condemnation, as they are united with Christ in His righteousness.
Hungering
By A.W. Pink0Righteousness in ChristSpiritual HungerPSA 42:1ISA 45:8JER 23:6MAT 5:6ROM 1:16ROM 3:22ROM 5:19ROM 10:4PHP 3:8REV 7:16A.W. Pink emphasizes the profound spiritual hunger and thirst for righteousness that arises from a deep awareness of one's own sinfulness and need for salvation. He explains that this longing is not only a characteristic of the unconverted but also a continual experience for believers who desire to grow closer to God and be conformed to Christ's image. Pink highlights that true righteousness is found in Christ alone, who fulfills the law and provides the perfect righteousness needed for salvation. He reassures that those who hunger and thirst for righteousness will be filled, both in this life and in the life to come, where they will experience complete satisfaction in God's holiness. The sermon calls believers to reflect on their spiritual state and to seek a deeper relationship with God.
Ministers Ambassadors for Christ
By Robert Murray M'Cheyne0Reconciliation with GodAmbassadors for ChristDEU 5:29PRO 1:24ISA 53:6LUK 1:35ROM 3:24ROM 5:192CO 5:20HEB 7:26HEB 9:141PE 2:24Robert Murray M'Cheyne emphasizes the role of ministers as ambassadors for Christ, highlighting their character, the message of reconciliation they bring, and the grounds of their mission rooted in Christ's sacrifice. He explains that ministers do not come in their own name but convey a message of mercy, urging sinners to be reconciled to God. M'Cheyne underscores the significance of Christ's sinlessness and the profound love demonstrated in His willingness to bear our sins, offering righteousness to all who believe. The sermon calls for a heartfelt response to God's invitation for reconciliation, stressing the urgency and tenderness of the message delivered by ministers.
Winning Christ.
By Andrew Bonar0Pursuit of ChristSpiritual GrowthPSA 1:2ISA 40:31MAT 13:44JHN 5:39ROM 5:192CO 5:21GAL 3:13PHP 3:8COL 3:4REV 2:28Andrew Bonar preaches on the profound pursuit of 'Winning Christ,' emphasizing that it is not merely about finding Christ or being found in Him, but about continually seeking to gain the riches and glory that come from a deep relationship with Him. He reflects on the Apostle Paul's journey, illustrating how Paul, after thirty years in Christ, remained focused on winning Christ and discovering His unsearchable riches. Bonar encourages believers to explore the depths of Christ's person, obedience, and suffering, and to engage in daily pursuit to avoid spiritual stagnation. He urges both believers and the unsaved to recognize the urgency of this pursuit, as it leads to true joy, growth, and the fulfillment of God's promises.
Sin: Its Character and Universality
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0ROM 5:19Lewis Sperry Chafer delves into the profound topic of sin, emphasizing its significance as a major theme in the Word of God and the limitations of human speculation in understanding it. He explores various historical and modern theories on sin, highlighting the inadequacy of attributing sin solely to sensuousness, finiteness, or selfishness. Chafer then transitions to the biblical doctrine of sin, defining it as any lack of conformity to God's character and explaining the four classifications of sin as outlined in the Scriptures.
Emblems From the Story of Creation
By A.B. Simpson0New Creation in ChristCreationGEN 1:26SNG 4:12JHN 6:51ROM 5:192CO 5:17EPH 2:10COL 3:10HEB 4:91PE 2:9REV 21:1A.B. Simpson explores the profound spiritual meanings embedded in the story of creation, emphasizing that while the Scriptures recount historical events, they also convey deeper truths about the new creation in Christ. He illustrates how the creation narrative parallels the spiritual transformation of believers, highlighting themes of light, order, and the divine image in humanity. Simpson draws connections between the creation of man and woman, emphasizing their roles and the relationship between Christ and the Church. He concludes with reflections on the Sabbath as a symbol of spiritual rest and the garden as a representation of paradise restored, ultimately pointing to Christ as the source of life and renewal.
Who Told You That You Are Unworthy?
By David Wilkerson0Overcoming AccusationIdentity in ChristPSA 103:12ISA 54:17JHN 1:12ROM 5:192CO 5:21EPH 2:8PHP 4:13HEB 4:161JN 3:1REV 12:10David Wilkerson addresses the lies of the devil that convince believers they are unworthy of God's love and service. He emphasizes that the enemy constantly reminds us of our failures and inadequacies, making us feel unfit to worship or serve in God's house. Wilkerson shares his own struggles with feelings of unworthiness, yet he reassures that it is not our worthiness that qualifies us, but rather Jesus' sacrifice that makes us worthy. He encourages believers to reject the accuser's lies and embrace their identity as children of God, made righteous through Christ.
It Is God That Justifieth
By Thomas Bradbury0PSA 139:23MRK 9:24JHN 14:1ROM 1:7ROM 3:24ROM 4:25ROM 5:9ROM 5:19ROM 8:331CO 6:11JAS 2:24Thomas Bradbury preaches about the comprehensive justification provided by God through Jesus Christ, emphasizing the triumph of redeeming love over sin, death, and hell. He highlights the role of the Kinsman-Redeemer, Jesus Christ, who entered heaven to intercede for His people, sending the Holy Spirit to complete the canon of Scripture and comfort believers. The sermon delves into the universal proclamation of the Gospel to gather all objects of God's everlasting love, showcasing the diverse testimonies of believers from different backgrounds coming to bow before Jesus and receive blessings from the covenant of grace.
The Saviour
By Thomas Bradbury0PSA 68:18PSA 91:11ISA 61:1MAT 1:21MAT 4:1JHN 14:30ACT 10:38ROM 5:19HEB 4:15Thomas Bradbury preaches about the profound connection between Jesus and His people, emphasizing the shared experiences of suffering and temptation. He delves into the mystery of Christ's identity as both fully God and fully man, highlighting His willingness to bear the sins and infirmities of His people. Bradbury marvels at the humility of Jesus, who condescended to become human and face conflict with Satan, showcasing His sensitivity to sin and His ultimate victory over temptation. The sermon explores the deep union between Christ and believers, portraying Jesus as the Savior appointed by the Father, revealed by the Spirit, and embraced by the redeemed.
The Redeemers Humiliation
By J.C. Philpot0PSA 22:6ISA 53:2JHN 16:13ROM 5:192CO 5:21EPH 5:25HEB 10:71JN 2:20J.C. Philpot delves into the sacred humanity of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the importance of understanding this profound mystery under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. He highlights the eternal purposes of God revealed through the covenant of grace, showcasing the divine foresight and provision for the fall of man and the redemption through the Son of God. Philpot explores the voluntary act of Jesus taking on human form, emptying Himself of glory, becoming a servant, and displaying perfect, vicarious, and meritorious obedience to the Father's will, ultimately leading to the salvation and righteousness imputed to believers.
Prejudices Against Imputation of Righteousness of Christ
By John Owen0LUK 24:25JHN 1:12JHN 3:16JHN 3:18JHN 5:24JHN 16:12ACT 1:3ROM 4:6ROM 5:19John Owen addresses common prejudices against the doctrine of the imputation of the righteousness of Christ. He refutes objections that claim this doctrine is not explicitly mentioned in Scripture, highlighting the importance of understanding the essence of the doctrine rather than specific terminology. Owen also discusses differences among Protestants regarding this doctrine, emphasizing the agreement on the core belief that our righteousness before God is based on Christ's righteousness imputed to us. He delves into controversies surrounding the nature of faith, the extent of Christ's righteousness imputed, and the formal cause of justification, while stressing the unity in the substance of the doctrine among Protestant writers despite varying expressions.
The Requirements for Sin and Holiness.
By Steve Grochow0GEN 2:16ISA 7:14ISA 14:12JER 2:13ACT 17:30ROM 5:19ROM 8:1ROM 8:4JAS 1:13Steve Grochow delves into the concept of sin, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and free will in making moral choices. He distinguishes between natural and moral attributes, highlighting that sin is a result of a deliberate choice to rebel against God's authority. The sermon explores the origins of sin, the misconception of a sin nature, and the responsibility individuals hold for their own actions. Grochow challenges the idea of sin as a hereditary trait, emphasizing that sin is a personal choice and rebellion against God's rightful rule.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For, as by one man's disobedience, etc. - The explanation of this verse has been anticipated in the foregoing.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
For, &c.--better, "For as by the one man's disobedience the many were made sinners, even so by the obedience of the One shall the many be made righteous." On this great verse observe: First, By the "obedience" of Christ here is plainly not meant more than what divines call His active obedience, as distinguished from His sufferings and death; it is the entire work of Christ in its obediential character. Our Lord Himself represents even His death as His great act of obedience to the Father: "This commandment (that is, to lay down and resume His life) have I received of My Father" (Joh 10:8). Second, The significant word twice rendered made, does not signify to work a change upon a person or thing, but to constitute or ordain, as will be seen from all the places where it is used. Here, accordingly, it is intended to express that judicial act which holds men, in virtue of their connection with Adam, as sinners; and, in connection with Christ, as righteous. Third, The change of tense from the past to the future--"as through Adam we were made sinners, so through Christ we shall be made righteous"--delightfully expresses the enduring character of the act, and of the economy to which such acts belong, in contrast with the for-ever-past ruin of believers in Adam. (See on Rom 6:5). Fourth, The "all men" of Rom 5:18 and the "many" of Rom 5:19 are the same party, though under a slightly different aspect. In the latter case, the contrast is between the one representative (Adam--Christ) and the many whom he represented; in the former case, it is between the one head (Adam--Christ) and the human race, affected for death and life respectively by the actings of that one. Only in this latter case it is the redeemed family of man that is alone in view; it is humanity as actually lost, but also as actually saved, as ruined and recovered. Such as refuse to fall in with the high purpose of God to constitute His Son a "second Adam," the Head of a new race, and as impenitent and unbelieving finally perish, have no place in this section of the Epistle, whose sole object is to show how God repairs in the second Adam the evil done by the first. (Thus the doctrine of universal restoration has no place here. Thus too the forced interpretation by which the "justification of all" is made to mean a justification merely in possibility and offer to all, and the "justification of the many" to mean the actual justification of as many as believe [ALFORD, &c.], is completely avoided. And thus the harshness of comparing a whole fallen family with a recovered part is got rid of. However true it be in fact that part of mankind is not saved, this is not the aspect in which the subject is here presented. It is totals that are compared and contrasted; and it is the same total in two successive conditions--namely, the human race as ruined in Adam and recovered in Christ).
John Gill Bible Commentary
For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners,.... Agreeably to this the Jews say (g), that "for the sin of the first man, all that are born of him, , "become wicked".'' This is the sum of what is said in the foregoing verses, that as by Adam's sin all his posterity are made sinners, and so are brought under a sentence of condemnation; in like manner by the obedience of Christ, all his seed are made righteous, and come under a sentence of justification of life: the persons made sinners are said to be "many", in opposition to the "one man", by whose disobedience they became so, and because there is an exception of one, even Jesus Christ; and mean all the natural descendants of Adam, who are many, and are so called, to answer to the subjects of justification in the next clause: what they are made sinners by, is "the disobedience of one man, Adam"; and by the first and single disobedience of his, in eating the fruit of the forbidden tree, by which they "were made sinners": the meaning of which is not, that they became sufferers for it, or subject to death on the account of it; the word used will not bear such a sense, but signifies men guilty of sin, and sometimes the worst and chief of sinners; besides, the apostle had expressed that before; add to this, that the sons of Adam could not be sufferers for his sin, or subject to death on account of it, if they were not made sinners by it, or involved in the guilt or it: and though the posterity of Adam are habitually sinners, that is, derive corrupt nature from Adam, yet this is not meant here; but that they are become guilty, through the imputation of his sin to them; for it is by the disobedience of another they are made sinners, which must be by the imputation of that disobedience to them; he sinned, and they sinned in him, when they had as yet no actual existence; which could be no other way, than by imputation, as he was reckoned and accounted their head and representative, and they reckoned and accounted in him, and so have sinned in him. This is also evident, from the sentence of condemnation and death passing upon all men for it; and even upon those, who had not actually sinned; to which may be added, that Adam's posterity are made sinners through his disobedience, in the same way as Christ's seed are made righteous by his obedience, which is by the imputation of it to them; so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous; not by their own obedience; nor by their own obedience and Christ's together; but by his sole and single obedience to the law of God: and the persons made righteous by it are not all the posterity of Adam, and yet not a few of them; but "many", even all the elect of God, and seed of Christ; these are all made righteous in the sight of God, are justified from all their sins, and entitled to eternal life and happiness. (g) Tzeror Hammor, fol. 97. 1.