Romans 5:20
Verse
Context
Death in Adam, Life in Christ
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.20The law came in so that the trespass would increase; but where sin increased, grace increased all the more,21so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Sermons
Jonathan Edwards
A.W. Tozer
B.B. Caldwell
Kenneth Wuest
John Murray
Zac PoonenSummary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The law entered that (ἱνα) the offense might abound - After considering various opinions concerning the true meaning of this verse, (see under Rom 5:12 (note)), I am induced to prefer my own, as being the most simple. By law I understand the Mosaic law. By entering in, παρεισηλθεν, or, rather, coming in privily, see Gal 2:4, (the only place where it occurs besides), I understand the temporary or limited use of that law, which was, as far as its rites and ceremonies are considered, confined to the Jewish people, and to them only till the Messiah should come; but considered as the moral law, or rule of conscience and life, it has in its spirit and power been slipped in - introduced into every conscience, that sin might abound - that the true nature, deformity, and extent of sin might appear; for by the law is the knowledge of sin: for how can the finer deviations from a straight line be ascertained, without the application of a known straight edge? Without this rule of right, sin can only be known in a sort of general way; the innumerable deviations from positive rectitude can only be known by the application of the righteous statutes of which the law is composed. And it was necessary that this law should be given, that the true nature of sin might be seen, and that men might be the better prepared to receive the Gospel; finding that this law worketh only wrath, i.e. denounces punishment, forasmuch as all have sinned. Now, it is wisely ordered of God, that wherever the Gospel goes there the law goes also; entering every where, that sin may be seen to abound, and that men may be led to despair of salvation in any other way or on any terms but those proposed in the Gospel of Christ. Thus the sinner becomes a true penitent, and is glad, seeing the curse of the law hanging over his soul, to flee for refuge to the hope set before him in the Gospel. On the meaning of ἱνα, in various places, see Chrysost. vol. iii. p. 241. See also Hammond on the word in his notes on the New Testament. But where sin abounded - Whether in the world, or in the heart of the individual, being discovered by this most pure and righteous law, grace did much more abound: not only pardon for all that is past is offered by the Gospel, so that all the transgressions for which the soul is condemned to death by the law, are freely and fully forgiven; but also the Holy Spirit, in the abundance of his gifts and graces, is communicated, so as to prepare the receiver for an exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Thus the grace of the Gospel not only redeems from death, and restores to life, but brings the soul into such a relationship with God, and into such a participation of eternal glory, as we have no authority to believe ever would have been the portion even of Adam himself, had he even eternally retained his innocence. Thus, where sin abounded, grace doth much more abound.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Moreover the law--"The law, however." The Jew might say, If the whole purposes of God towards men center in Adam and Christ, where does "the law" come in, and what was the use of it? Answer: It entered--But the word expresses an important idea besides "entering." It signifies, "entered incidentally," or "parenthetically." (In Gal 2:4 the same word is rendered, "came in privily.") The meaning is, that the promulgation of the law at Sinai was no primary or essential feature of the divine plan, but it was "added" (Gal 3:19) for a subordinate purpose--the more fully to reveal the evil occasioned by Adam, and the need and glory of the remedy by Christ. that the offence might abound--or, "be multiplied." But what offense? Throughout all this section "the offense" (four times repeated besides here) has one definite meaning, namely, "the one first offense of Adam"; and this, in our judgment, is its meaning here also: "All our multitudinous breaches of the law are nothing but that one first offense, lodged mysteriously in the bosom of every child of Adam as an offending principal, and multiplying itself into myriads of particular offenses in the life of each." What was one act of disobedience in the head has been converted into a vital and virulent principle of disobedience in all the members of the human family, whose every act of wilful rebellion proclaims itself the child of the original transgression. But where sin abounded--or, "was multiplied." grace did much more abound--rather, "did exceedingly abound," or "superabound." The comparison here is between the multiplication of one offense into countless transgressions, and such an overflow of grace as more than meets that appalling case.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Moreover, the law entered,.... By "the law" is meant, not the law of nature, much less the law of sin; rather the ceremonial law, which came in over and above the moral law; it entered but for a time; by which sin abounded, and appeared very sinful; and through it the grace of God much more abounded, in the sacrifice of Christ prefigured by it: but the moral law, as it came by Moses, is here intended; which entered with great pomp and solemnity on Mount Sinai; and intervened, or came between Adam's sin and Christ's sacrifice; and also came in besides, or over and above the promise of life by Christ; and may moreover be said to enter into the conscience of a sinner, with the power and energy of the Spirit of God: and the end of its entrance is, that the offence might abound; meaning either the sin of Adam, he had been speaking of under that name, that that itself, and the imputation of it to his posterity, and also the pollution of human nature by it, together with all the aggravating circumstances of it, might appear more manifest; or sin in general, any and all actual transgressions, which abound through the law's discovering the evil nature of them, and so taking away all excuse, or pretext of ignorance: by prohibiting them, whereby the corrupt nature of man becomes more eager after them; and by accusing, threatening, terrifying, and condemning, on account of them: one view of the apostle in this, doubtless, is to show, that there can be no justification by the law: but where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: sin has abounded in human nature, in all the individuals of it; and grace has superabounded in the same nature, being assumed by the Son of God, and united to him, who has appeared in it "full of grace and truth", Joh 1:14, sin has abounded in all the powers and faculties of the soul, in the understanding, will, and affections, of an unregenerate man; but in regeneration, the grace of God much more abounds in the same powers and faculties, enlightening the understanding, subduing the will, and influencing the affections with love to divine things: sin abounded in the Gentile world, before the preaching of the Gospel in it; but afterwards grace did superabound in the conversion of multitudes in it from idols, to serve the living God; and where sin has abounded in particular persons to a very great height, grace has exceeded it, as in Manasseh, Mary Magdalene, Saul, and others.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:20 Many Jews believed that the giving of the law to Israel reversed or mitigated the negative effects of Adam’s sin, but Paul says that God’s law magnified and illuminated their sins.
Romans 5:20
Death in Adam, Life in Christ
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.20The law came in so that the trespass would increase; but where sin increased, grace increased all the more,21so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Pardon for the Greatest Sinners
By Jonathan Edwards5.0K28:57Audio BooksPSA 25:11PRO 8:4MAT 9:13MRK 16:15JHN 6:37ROM 5:20COL 1:231TI 1:13In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that pardon and forgiveness are offered to all sinners, regardless of the magnitude of their sins, if they come to God seeking mercy. The invitations of the gospel are universal, calling out to all who thirst and labor. Jesus promises that anyone who comes to Him will not be cast out. The preacher highlights that the purpose of Christ's coming into the world was to remedy the sinfulness of humanity, and therefore, the more sinful a person is, the greater their need for Christ. The sermon emphasizes the glory of God's grace in the redemption of Christ, which is sufficient to pardon even the greatest sinners.
I Press Toward the Mark
By A.W. Tozer3.5K38:55Pressing OnMAT 6:33MAT 22:37ROM 5:201CO 2:2EPH 4:14PHP 3:142TI 4:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking God's presence and experiencing His power. He uses the analogy of a pilot assuring passengers that they will soon be in sunlight despite the current rainy weather. The preacher encourages listeners to trust in God's ability to bring them into His presence and to not be discouraged by obstacles or confusion. He also references the apostle Paul's words in Philippians 3:13-14, where Paul expresses his determination to press on towards the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. The preacher concludes by urging listeners to let go of past failures and focus on moving forward in their relationship with God.
There Were Two Trees in the Garden - Part 2
By Art Katz3.2K34:52Garden Of EdenGEN 2:16EXO 19:6MAT 6:33ROM 2:4ROM 5:20ROM 11:33JAS 1:19In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the significance of examining the creation story in Genesis and how it reveals God's splendor, majesty, and wisdom. The speaker emphasizes the importance of exalting God and living in obedience to His word, as it is His provision that keeps us from sin and death. The sermon also explores the question of why God would plant two trees in the garden, including the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. The speaker suggests that God's purpose in allowing this temptation was to test Adam and Eve's obedience and to cultivate a deep intimacy with Him.
With Nothing but God
By B.B. Caldwell2.5K42:45DependenceEXO 12:13NUM 20:26NUM 27:12JOB 38:4JOB 42:5ROM 3:8ROM 5:20ROM 6:1In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Job and how God stripped him of his wealth and health to deliver him from the pitfalls of Phariseeism. The preacher emphasizes that God sometimes brings us down to a point where we have nothing but Him, in order to teach us surrender and reliance on Him alone. The sermon also mentions the biblical examples of God's judgment against Sodom and Gomorrah and the sons of Korah. The preacher concludes by urging the audience to reflect on their own lives and be prepared for God to strip them down to a point of complete reliance on Him.
Victory Over Indwelling
By Kenneth Wuest2.3K38:05JHN 3:3ROM 5:20ROM 6:1In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of the Christian's relationship with the evil nature. He emphasizes that although God separates the Christian from the evil nature, it is still present within them. However, the speaker emphasizes that the evil nature has no power over the Christian unless they allow it to. The speaker encourages Christians to maintain their separation from the evil nature by being mindful of what they see, hear, and say. They also highlight the importance of dedicating oneself to God and living under His grace rather than under the law. The sermon references Romans 6, 7, and 8 to explain the dynamics of the Christian life and the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers.
Definitive Sanctification Part 1
By John Murray2.3K49:50SanctificationROM 5:20ROM 6:1ROM 7:6In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of living and acting in the world versus being translated into a new world of fear, life, and action after death. The speaker emphasizes that once a person dies, they are no longer bound by sin and are under the reign of grace. The sermon references Romans 6:13 and 1 Peter 4:1-2 to support the idea that believers should no longer live according to the lusts of men but rather with the will of God. The speaker also mentions that the teachings of the apostles Paul and John align with this perspective, although John's perspective may differ slightly.
Accepted by God
By Zac Poonen2.0K1:02:53AcceptedGEN 3:9EXO 20:1PSA 51:6MAT 6:33JHN 1:17ROM 5:20HEB 8:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a passionate and persistent prayer life. He uses two parables from the Bible to illustrate this point. The first parable is about a persistent widow who keeps knocking on the door of a neighbor until she receives what she needs. The preacher encourages believers to have the same level of passion and persistence in their prayers to God. The second parable is about the value of seeking God's face above all else, recognizing that the things of this world are temporary and insignificant compared to the beauty and glory of God. The preacher urges listeners to count everything in this world as rubbish and to prioritize their relationship with God above all else.
Effective Prayer - Part 2
By William MacDonald1.9K32:57Effectual Prayer2CH 7:13PRO 3:5MAT 6:33ACT 9:1ROM 5:20PHP 1:21In this sermon, the speaker shares various stories and examples to emphasize the power and importance of prayer. He highlights the transformative impact prayer can have on individuals and communities. The speaker encourages listeners, particularly women and elders, to turn to God in prayer and seek His intervention in their lives and surroundings. He also mentions a specific instance where people across the country engaged in a day of humiliation, fasting, confession, and prayer, which coincided with the Watergate scandal.
(Genesis) - Part 6
By Zac Poonen1.8K1:00:23GenesisGEN 2:15GEN 3:16GEN 3:21PSA 22:15MAT 10:37ROM 5:202TH 3:10In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of hard work and discipline in the life of a believer. He references the example of Paul, who worked tirelessly and faced hardships to serve the Lord. The speaker warns against being deceived by those who do not work and rely on others for support, stating that they are not serving God but the devil. He highlights the biblical principle that if someone does not work, they should not eat. The sermon also touches on the consequences of not working, such as the increase of sin and evil in society. The speaker concludes by reminding listeners that God's rebukes always come with a promise of provision and hope.
(Through the Bible) Romans 5-6
By Chuck Smith1.8K1:18:41Through The BibleROM 3:24ROM 4:3ROM 5:20ROM 6:1ROM 8:1ROM 8:38In this sermon, the speaker discusses the purpose of the law and its contrast with grace. The law reveals how far humanity has fallen short of God's ideal, highlighting the need for grace. Despite sin reigning and leading to death, grace overflows and reigns through righteousness, offering eternal life through Jesus Christ. The sermon also mentions the upcoming chapters 7 and 8 of the Bible, which explore the depths of despair in trying to achieve the divine ideal in one's own strength, but also offer hope and victory through God's provisions.
Covering Sin
By Ed Mohr1.6K1:18:14Unconfessed SinPSA 32:5PRO 16:18ISA 59:2MAT 6:33JHN 10:27ROM 5:20In this sermon, the speaker addresses women and emphasizes the responsibility they have to share the truth they have learned with others. He highlights the consequences of not doing so, using the example of King David. David suffered feelings of guilt, loneliness, and a loss of joy and desire to witness due to his sin. The speaker warns women to be aware of the deceitfulness of sin and its potential to harden the heart. He concludes by encouraging them to learn from David's mistakes and not let sin cover their lives.
A Voice From Heaven
By Carl Armerding1.5K23:57God's VoiceGEN 4:4GEN 8:20ISA 40:12MAT 6:33ROM 1:20ROM 5:20EPH 2:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by discussing the rules and regulations presented in a gracious manner. He then emphasizes the spiritual objectives of the camp, stating that it is not just about having a good time, but also about finding answers to important questions. The speaker highlights the awe-inspiring surroundings of the camp, such as the mountains, streams, trees, flowers, birds, and animals, as evidence of an all-wise and all-powerful Creator. He encourages the audience to recognize the greatness and importance of God, and to seek a personal relationship with Him. The sermon also includes a reference to the book of Isaiah, specifically chapter 40, where the speaker explores the concept of God's measurement and control over the elements of the universe.
Recipe for Personal Revival
By Bill McLeod1.4K33:04Personal RevivalPSA 51:5HOS 1:2HOS 14:7ROM 3:10ROM 5:20JAS 4:4In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of personal revival and its connection to Christian growth. He emphasizes that genuine revival leads to real growth, using Hosea 14:7 as a reference. The preacher highlights the sinful nature of humanity, stating that even though we may acknowledge the sinfulness of the world, we often fail to recognize our own sinful hearts. He quotes Isaiah 40 and Psalm 14 to emphasize the emptiness and vanity of mankind. The sermon concludes by emphasizing the need for personal revival and the recognition of our sinful nature.
The Exodus - From Egypt to Canaan - Sermon 4 of 5
By Roy Hession1.2K52:17ExodusEXO 34:6JOL 2:25JON 3:5MAT 6:33ROM 5:201JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of the Israelites sending spies into the land that God had promised them. The majority of the spies saw themselves as grasshoppers compared to the giants they encountered, leading to a report of fear and unbelief. However, the minority report of two spies saw the giants as grasshoppers compared to God, demonstrating faith and trust in God's power. The speaker emphasizes the importance of not comparing ourselves to the challenges we face, but rather comparing them to the greatness of God.
Do Not Forsake My Law
By Shane Idleman9461:11:342CH 33:12PRO 4:10JER 18:7ROM 5:20
This sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance, turning back to God, and seeking His wisdom. It highlights the consequences of shedding innocent blood, promoting idolatry, and defying God's sanctuary. The message calls for a national revival, urging leaders to govern in the fear of God and individuals to repent and seek God's guidance. The hope lies in genuine repentance and turning back to God, as seen in the example of Manasseh in 2 Chronicles 33.
Our One Message
By Hans R. Waldvogel94118:14MessageEXO 33:13EXO 33:16PSA 37:4JHN 14:6ROM 5:20PHP 1:61JN 3:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of knowing Jesus Christ as the way to truth, holiness, righteousness, and health. The message centers around the idea that we need Jesus above all else, not just knowledge about heaven, power, or spirituality. The preacher uses the analogy of a woman searching for her beloved to illustrate the pursuit of a deep relationship with Jesus. The sermon also highlights the concept of surrendering to God and allowing Him to work in our lives, using the example of the preacher's experience in the jewelry business. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the transformative power of Jesus and the need to fully rely on Him.
The Attributes of God - Part 5
By William MacDonald92234:32Attributes of GodROM 5:20EPH 2:8JAS 4:6In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the limitless love and boundless grace of God. He highlights that even when we reach the end of our own resources, God's grace is just beginning. The preacher references the Bible verse Romans 5:20, which states that where sin abounds, grace abounds even more. He encourages the audience to rely on God's grace and mercy, as it is through His love that we find freedom and strength. The sermon concludes with a reminder that God continually gives us grace and that we should seek His mercy in all aspects of our lives.
Acts 18_pt1
By Bill Gallatin80957:04ExpositionalACT 17:18ROM 1:22ROM 5:20In this sermon, the preacher describes the city of Corinth during the time of the Roman Empire. He emphasizes how the people of Corinth had turned away from God and worshiped creatures instead of the Creator. The society had become morally corrupt, with rampant lesbianism and the worship of the Roman god Bacchus, associated with alcohol and sexual pleasure. The preacher also highlights the tolerance and acceptance of all religions in Corinth, which led to a society where all paths were believed to lead to God.
Standing Strong in the Coming Times
By Robert B. Thompson67154:13End TimesDEU 33:25DEU 33:27PSA 37:4PSA 37:7ISA 40:8ROM 5:20In this sermon, Tommy Barnett discusses a vision he had of a giant awakening, symbolizing a spiritual awakening in the midst of trouble in the world and America. He emphasizes that the body of Christ is in bad shape, substituting grace for obedience. Barnett believes that God's time to awaken the body of Christ is coming, even in the midst of chaos and potential destruction. He encourages the audience to trust in the Lord, do good, and find peace and safety in Him, regardless of the circumstances. Barnett also emphasizes the importance of believing in the Bible and standing firm on its words, even in the face of wickedness and temptation to fret.
Know Yourself in Christ
By G.W. North1601:02:20ChristPSA 40:2MAT 6:33ROM 5:202CO 5:21EPH 2:6HEB 8:61PE 1:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the glorious opening and acceptance of God's gift of freedom and liberty in the believer's life. He encourages the audience to believe in God and be deliberate in their faith, comparing it to the level of determination they have when making worldly decisions. The preacher highlights that receiving God's gift requires humility and a willingness to let go of self-reliance. He concludes by urging the audience to stop trying and instead receive the gift of salvation through faith in Jesus Christ.
Glory Only in the Cross
By Gary Wilkerson12442:19Theology of the CrossCross of ChristRighteousness through FaithISA 53:5JHN 3:16ROM 5:20ROM 7:91CO 1:182CO 5:21GAL 6:14EPH 2:8PHP 3:31PE 2:24Gary Wilkerson emphasizes the necessity of understanding the significance of the cross in the Christian faith, arguing that true glory comes only from the cross of Jesus Christ. He contrasts the theology of glory, which relies on self-righteousness and human effort, with the theology of the cross, which recognizes our complete dependence on Christ's sacrifice for righteousness. Wilkerson highlights that many people, even in the church, are seeking fulfillment through self-improvement rather than embracing the transformative power of the cross. He calls for a shift from self-reliance to a reliance on Christ's work, urging believers to acknowledge their need for grace and the righteousness that comes through faith alone. Ultimately, he invites the congregation to embrace the cross as the source of true freedom and identity in Christ.
The Reign of Grace: Walking in Victory, Part 1 (Rom. 5:20-21)
By Mike Bickle231:02:18GraceIdentity in ChristROM 5:20Mike Bickle emphasizes the transformative power of grace as outlined in Romans 5:20-21, urging believers to understand and access the wealth of righteousness they have received through Christ. He explains that many Christians live in spiritual poverty despite having a rich inheritance in Christ, and he encourages them to engage with the truths of Romans 3-8 to experience true transformation. Bickle highlights the importance of a heart connection with Jesus, which enables believers to reign in life and overcome sin and trials. He stresses that understanding one's identity as the righteousness of God is crucial for living victoriously and confidently before God.
The God of Jacob
By A.B. Simpson0God's GraceTransformationGEN 32:28ISA 41:14ISA 49:26ROM 5:201CO 1:272CO 12:9PHP 3:10HEB 11:21JAS 1:21PE 1:7A.B. Simpson emphasizes the contrast between Jacob, described as a 'worm,' and the 'Mighty One of Jacob,' illustrating how God chooses the weak and unworthy to demonstrate His grace and sufficiency. He highlights Jacob's life as a testament to God's ability to transform and use flawed individuals for His purposes, showing that even the most discouraged can find hope in God's love. Simpson encourages believers to recognize that God sees the potential for good within them, regardless of their past, and that through trials and surrender, they can experience a deeper relationship with Him. Ultimately, the sermon reveals that God's grace is available to all, and He desires to use those who have been transformed by His love.
A Prophecy - Wall of Fire
By David Wilkerson0Holiness and SeparationDivine ProtectionISA 14:31JER 1:14JER 4:6EZK 9:4ZEP 2:13ZEC 2:5ZEC 3:7ROM 5:202TI 3:131PE 5:8David Wilkerson shares a prophetic vision of a 'Wall of Fire' that God will create to protect His people amidst the moral decay and increasing evil in society. He reflects on the disturbing images from a television program that prompted deep concern for future generations, leading him to seek God's assurance. The prophecy reveals that as sin abounds, God's grace will abound even more, raising up a dedicated generation shielded by this divine barrier. Wilkerson emphasizes the need for believers to separate from worldly influences and to seek holiness, assuring that those who do will be safeguarded by God's glory. He encourages the faithful to pray for their children and trust in God's promise of protection.
Notes of a Lecture Numbers 15
By John Nelson Darby0Worship and OfferingsGod's GraceEXO 6:7NUM 15:2NUM 15:39PSA 119:105MAT 4:4JHN 14:6ROM 5:20EPH 5:2HEB 10:141JN 1:9John Nelson Darby discusses the significance of Numbers 15, emphasizing God's unwavering purpose despite Israel's rebellion and unbelief. He highlights how, even after the people's failures, God reassures them of their future in the promised land, demonstrating His grace and steadfastness. The chapter outlines the offerings to be made in the land, symbolizing worship and communion with God, and emphasizes the importance of joy and fellowship in worship. Darby also notes the provision for sin, illustrating God's grace in maintaining a relationship with His people despite their shortcomings. Ultimately, he concludes with the assurance of God's enduring presence and commitment to His people.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
The law entered that (ἱνα) the offense might abound - After considering various opinions concerning the true meaning of this verse, (see under Rom 5:12 (note)), I am induced to prefer my own, as being the most simple. By law I understand the Mosaic law. By entering in, παρεισηλθεν, or, rather, coming in privily, see Gal 2:4, (the only place where it occurs besides), I understand the temporary or limited use of that law, which was, as far as its rites and ceremonies are considered, confined to the Jewish people, and to them only till the Messiah should come; but considered as the moral law, or rule of conscience and life, it has in its spirit and power been slipped in - introduced into every conscience, that sin might abound - that the true nature, deformity, and extent of sin might appear; for by the law is the knowledge of sin: for how can the finer deviations from a straight line be ascertained, without the application of a known straight edge? Without this rule of right, sin can only be known in a sort of general way; the innumerable deviations from positive rectitude can only be known by the application of the righteous statutes of which the law is composed. And it was necessary that this law should be given, that the true nature of sin might be seen, and that men might be the better prepared to receive the Gospel; finding that this law worketh only wrath, i.e. denounces punishment, forasmuch as all have sinned. Now, it is wisely ordered of God, that wherever the Gospel goes there the law goes also; entering every where, that sin may be seen to abound, and that men may be led to despair of salvation in any other way or on any terms but those proposed in the Gospel of Christ. Thus the sinner becomes a true penitent, and is glad, seeing the curse of the law hanging over his soul, to flee for refuge to the hope set before him in the Gospel. On the meaning of ἱνα, in various places, see Chrysost. vol. iii. p. 241. See also Hammond on the word in his notes on the New Testament. But where sin abounded - Whether in the world, or in the heart of the individual, being discovered by this most pure and righteous law, grace did much more abound: not only pardon for all that is past is offered by the Gospel, so that all the transgressions for which the soul is condemned to death by the law, are freely and fully forgiven; but also the Holy Spirit, in the abundance of his gifts and graces, is communicated, so as to prepare the receiver for an exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Thus the grace of the Gospel not only redeems from death, and restores to life, but brings the soul into such a relationship with God, and into such a participation of eternal glory, as we have no authority to believe ever would have been the portion even of Adam himself, had he even eternally retained his innocence. Thus, where sin abounded, grace doth much more abound.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Moreover the law--"The law, however." The Jew might say, If the whole purposes of God towards men center in Adam and Christ, where does "the law" come in, and what was the use of it? Answer: It entered--But the word expresses an important idea besides "entering." It signifies, "entered incidentally," or "parenthetically." (In Gal 2:4 the same word is rendered, "came in privily.") The meaning is, that the promulgation of the law at Sinai was no primary or essential feature of the divine plan, but it was "added" (Gal 3:19) for a subordinate purpose--the more fully to reveal the evil occasioned by Adam, and the need and glory of the remedy by Christ. that the offence might abound--or, "be multiplied." But what offense? Throughout all this section "the offense" (four times repeated besides here) has one definite meaning, namely, "the one first offense of Adam"; and this, in our judgment, is its meaning here also: "All our multitudinous breaches of the law are nothing but that one first offense, lodged mysteriously in the bosom of every child of Adam as an offending principal, and multiplying itself into myriads of particular offenses in the life of each." What was one act of disobedience in the head has been converted into a vital and virulent principle of disobedience in all the members of the human family, whose every act of wilful rebellion proclaims itself the child of the original transgression. But where sin abounded--or, "was multiplied." grace did much more abound--rather, "did exceedingly abound," or "superabound." The comparison here is between the multiplication of one offense into countless transgressions, and such an overflow of grace as more than meets that appalling case.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Moreover, the law entered,.... By "the law" is meant, not the law of nature, much less the law of sin; rather the ceremonial law, which came in over and above the moral law; it entered but for a time; by which sin abounded, and appeared very sinful; and through it the grace of God much more abounded, in the sacrifice of Christ prefigured by it: but the moral law, as it came by Moses, is here intended; which entered with great pomp and solemnity on Mount Sinai; and intervened, or came between Adam's sin and Christ's sacrifice; and also came in besides, or over and above the promise of life by Christ; and may moreover be said to enter into the conscience of a sinner, with the power and energy of the Spirit of God: and the end of its entrance is, that the offence might abound; meaning either the sin of Adam, he had been speaking of under that name, that that itself, and the imputation of it to his posterity, and also the pollution of human nature by it, together with all the aggravating circumstances of it, might appear more manifest; or sin in general, any and all actual transgressions, which abound through the law's discovering the evil nature of them, and so taking away all excuse, or pretext of ignorance: by prohibiting them, whereby the corrupt nature of man becomes more eager after them; and by accusing, threatening, terrifying, and condemning, on account of them: one view of the apostle in this, doubtless, is to show, that there can be no justification by the law: but where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: sin has abounded in human nature, in all the individuals of it; and grace has superabounded in the same nature, being assumed by the Son of God, and united to him, who has appeared in it "full of grace and truth", Joh 1:14, sin has abounded in all the powers and faculties of the soul, in the understanding, will, and affections, of an unregenerate man; but in regeneration, the grace of God much more abounds in the same powers and faculties, enlightening the understanding, subduing the will, and influencing the affections with love to divine things: sin abounded in the Gentile world, before the preaching of the Gospel in it; but afterwards grace did superabound in the conversion of multitudes in it from idols, to serve the living God; and where sin has abounded in particular persons to a very great height, grace has exceeded it, as in Manasseh, Mary Magdalene, Saul, and others.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
5:20 Many Jews believed that the giving of the law to Israel reversed or mitigated the negative effects of Adam’s sin, but Paul says that God’s law magnified and illuminated their sins.