Therefore,
The word "therefore" indicates a conclusion drawn from previous arguments. In Romans 4, Paul discusses the faith of Abraham and how righteousness was credited to him. This sets the stage for the implications of justification by faith for all believers.

since we have been justified through faith,
Justification is a legal term signifying acquittal. In the context of Paul's letter, it means being declared righteous before God. This justification is not through works or the law but through faith, echoing Genesis 15:6, where Abraham's belief in God was credited to him as righteousness. This concept is central to the doctrine of salvation and is a cornerstone of Christian theology.

we have peace with God
Peace with God implies a cessation of hostility and the establishment of a harmonious relationship. This peace is not merely a feeling but a state of reconciliation with God, who was once estranged from humanity due to sin. This echoes the prophetic vision of peace in Isaiah 53:5, where the suffering servant brings peace through his sacrifice.

through our Lord Jesus Christ,
Jesus Christ is the mediator of this peace. His sacrificial death and resurrection are the means by which justification and reconciliation are possible. This phrase underscores the exclusivity of Christ as the way to God, aligning with John 14:6, where Jesus declares Himself the way, the truth, and the life. The title "Lord" emphasizes His divine authority and role as the sovereign ruler, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies of the Messiah.

through whom we have gained access
This phrase emphasizes Jesus Christ as the mediator between God and humanity. In the Old Testament, access to God was limited, often requiring a priestly intermediary (Exodus 28:1). The tearing of the temple veil at Christ's crucifixion (Matthew 27:51) symbolizes the new direct access believers have to God through Jesus. This access is not based on human merit but on Christ's redemptive work.

by faith
Faith is the means by which believers receive God's grace. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. This faith is not merely intellectual assent but involves trust and reliance on Christ's finished work. Ephesians 2:8-9 underscores that faith itself is a gift from God, not a result of works.

into this grace
Grace refers to the unmerited favor of God. In the context of Romans, it highlights the transition from the law to grace, a central theme in Paul's writings (Romans 6:14). Grace is the foundation of the believer's relationship with God, contrasting with the works-based righteousness of the law. This grace is abundant and sufficient for all needs (2 Corinthians 12:9).

in which we stand
The phrase indicates a firm and secure position. Standing in grace suggests stability and assurance in the believer's life. This standing is not precarious but is guaranteed by the promises of God (1 Corinthians 15:1). It reflects the believer's new identity and position in Christ, as opposed to being under condemnation (Romans 8:1).

And we rejoice
Rejoicing is a natural response to the assurance of salvation and the hope believers have in Christ. This joy is not dependent on circumstances but is rooted in the eternal truths of the gospel. Philippians 4:4 encourages believers to rejoice always, reflecting a life transformed by the Spirit.

in the hope of the glory of God
Hope in this context is a confident expectation of future glory. It is not wishful thinking but a certainty based on God's promises. The glory of God refers to the ultimate fulfillment of God's plan, including the believer's glorification (Romans 8:30). This hope sustains believers through trials and is a key theme in eschatological teachings (Titus 2:13).

Not only that,
This phrase indicates a continuation of thought from the previous verses, where Paul discusses the peace and hope believers have through faith in Jesus Christ. It suggests that the benefits of faith extend beyond the initial experience of salvation.

but we also rejoice in our sufferings,
Rejoicing in sufferings is a countercultural concept, especially in the Greco-Roman world where suffering was often seen as a sign of divine displeasure. In the biblical context, suffering is seen as a tool for spiritual growth. This idea is echoed in James 1:2-4, where trials are said to produce maturity and completeness. The early Christians, including Paul, often faced persecution, and this perspective provided them with a framework to understand and endure hardships.

because we know that suffering produces perseverance;
The term "perseverance" can also be understood as endurance or steadfastness. This reflects a process of character development that is central to Christian discipleship. The concept is similar to the refining of metals, where impurities are removed through intense heat. In a broader biblical context, this idea is seen in the life of Joseph, who endured many trials before rising to a position of power in Egypt (Genesis 37-50). Theologically, this process is part of sanctification, where believers are gradually conformed to the image of Christ, who Himself endured suffering (Hebrews 12:2-3).

perseverance, character;
Perseverance in the Christian life is often seen as a process of enduring trials and tribulations with faith. This endurance is not passive but active, involving a steadfast commitment to God's will despite challenges. The Greek word for perseverance, "hypomonē," implies a sense of steadfastness and endurance. Biblically, perseverance is linked to spiritual maturity and growth, as seen in James 1:3-4, where testing of faith produces perseverance, leading to maturity and completeness. The development of character through perseverance is a refining process, akin to the refining of metals, where impurities are removed, and the true nature is revealed. This character is not merely moral integrity but a tested and proven faithfulness to God, reflecting the image of Christ, who is the ultimate example of perseverance and character (Hebrews 12:2).

and character, hope.
Character, once developed through perseverance, leads to hope. This hope is not wishful thinking but a confident expectation rooted in the promises of God. The biblical concept of hope is often tied to the assurance of salvation and the future glory that believers will share with Christ (Romans 8:24-25). This hope is anchored in the resurrection of Jesus, which is the foundation of Christian faith and the guarantee of eternal life (1 Peter 1:3-4). The transformation from character to hope signifies a deepening trust in God's faithfulness and a forward-looking perspective that transcends present circumstances. This hope is also a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah, who would bring salvation and restoration to God's people (Isaiah 53). In the New Testament, hope is a central theme, encouraging believers to remain steadfast in their faith and to look forward to the return of Christ (Titus 2:13).

And hope does not disappoint us
This phrase emphasizes the certainty and reliability of Christian hope. In the biblical context, hope is not a mere wish but a confident expectation based on God's promises. Romans 8:24-25 further elaborates on this hope, indicating that it is something not yet seen but eagerly awaited. The assurance of hope is rooted in the character of God, who is faithful and unchanging (Hebrews 10:23). Historically, the early Christians faced persecution and trials, yet their hope in Christ's return and eternal life sustained them, as seen in 1 Thessalonians 1:3.

because God has poured out His love into our hearts
This phrase highlights the abundant and generous nature of God's love. The imagery of pouring suggests an overflowing measure, indicating that God's love is not given sparingly. In the Old Testament, God's love is often described as steadfast and enduring (Psalm 136). The New Testament reveals this love most fully in the person and work of Jesus Christ (John 3:16). The pouring out of love into believers' hearts signifies an intimate and personal experience of God's love, transforming and renewing them (Ephesians 3:17-19).

through the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is the agent through whom God's love is experienced and realized in the believer's life. The Spirit's role is multifaceted, including guiding, teaching, and comforting believers (John 14:26). In the context of Romans, the Holy Spirit is also a guarantee of the believer's inheritance and a seal of their salvation (Ephesians 1:13-14). The presence of the Holy Spirit is a fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies, such as Joel 2:28-29, which speak of God's Spirit being poured out on all people.

whom He has given us
This phrase underscores the gift nature of the Holy Spirit. The giving of the Holy Spirit is an act of grace, not based on human merit but on God's sovereign will (John 14:16-17). The Spirit's indwelling is a mark of the New Covenant, distinguishing believers as God's people (Jeremiah 31:33). The historical context of the early church, as seen in Acts 2, shows the transformative impact of the Holy Spirit's arrival at Pentecost, empowering believers for witness and service.

For at just the right time
This phrase emphasizes God's perfect timing in the unfolding of His redemptive plan. The "right time" refers to the divinely appointed moment in history when Jesus came into the world. Galatians 4:4-5 echoes this sentiment, stating that God sent His Son "when the fullness of time had come." Historically, this period was marked by the Pax Romana, a time of relative peace across the Roman Empire, which facilitated the spread of the Gospel. Theologically, it signifies God's sovereignty and His control over history, ensuring that Christ's sacrifice occurred precisely when it was most needed and most effective.

while we were still powerless
This phrase highlights human inability to achieve righteousness or salvation through our own efforts. The term "powerless" underscores the spiritual helplessness of humanity due to sin. Ephesians 2:1-5 describes humanity as "dead in transgressions and sins," further illustrating our incapacity to save ourselves. This condition necessitates divine intervention, underscoring the need for a Savior. The concept of human powerlessness is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing that salvation is a gift from God, not a result of human works (Ephesians 2:8-9).

Christ died for the ungodly
This statement encapsulates the core of the Gospel message: Christ's sacrificial death on behalf of sinners. The term "ungodly" refers to those who are opposed to God, highlighting the depth of God's love and grace. Romans 5:8 further elaborates on this by stating that God demonstrates His love for us in that "while we were still sinners, Christ died for us." This act of substitutionary atonement is central to Christian theology, fulfilling Old Testament prophecies such as Isaiah 53, which speaks of the suffering servant who bears the sins of many. Christ's death is the ultimate expression of God's love and the means by which reconciliation with God is made possible.

Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous man
This phrase highlights the rarity of self-sacrifice for someone deemed "righteous." In biblical terms, a "righteous man" is one who adheres to the law and moral codes. The context here suggests that even those who are morally upright do not often inspire others to sacrifice their lives for them. This reflects the human tendency to prioritize self-preservation. The concept of righteousness is central in the Old Testament, where figures like Noah and Job are described as righteous. However, the rarity of such sacrificial acts underscores the extraordinary nature of Christ's sacrifice, which Paul is setting up in contrast.

though for a good man
The distinction between a "righteous man" and a "good man" is subtle but significant. A "good man" implies not only adherence to moral codes but also a benevolent and kind nature. In the cultural context of the time, a "good man" might be someone who actively benefits others, thus potentially inspiring greater loyalty and sacrifice. This distinction can be seen in the way Jesus describes the Good Samaritan, who goes beyond the call of duty to help another.

someone might possibly dare to die
This phrase suggests that while it is uncommon, there is a possibility that someone might choose to die for a "good man." The use of "dare" implies courage and a conscious decision to face danger or death. This reflects the highest form of human love and loyalty, which is rare and exceptional. The idea of daring to die for another is echoed in John 15:13, where Jesus states, "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." This sets the stage for understanding the magnitude of Christ's sacrifice, which goes beyond human examples of love and sacrifice.

But God proves His love for us in this:
This phrase emphasizes the initiative and action of God in demonstrating His love. The use of "proves" indicates a definitive and undeniable action. In the biblical context, God's love is not just a feeling but is demonstrated through actions. This aligns with the broader biblical narrative where God's love is consistently shown through His deeds, such as the deliverance of Israel from Egypt (Exodus 14) and the provision of the law (Deuteronomy 7:9). Theologically, this phrase underscores the concept of grace, where God's love is given freely and unconditionally, not based on human merit.

While we were still sinners,
This highlights the state of humanity at the time of God's action. The term "sinners" refers to those who are in rebellion against God, a condition that has existed since the fall of Adam and Eve (Genesis 3). The phrase "still sinners" indicates that God's love and Christ's sacrifice were not contingent upon human righteousness or repentance. This is consistent with the doctrine of original sin, which posits that all humans are born into sin (Psalm 51:5, Romans 3:23). The cultural context of the time viewed sin as a separation from God, and this phrase emphasizes that reconciliation was initiated by God despite this separation.

Christ died for us.
This is the central tenet of Christian faith, encapsulating the doctrine of atonement. The death of Christ is seen as the ultimate sacrifice, fulfilling the Old Testament sacrificial system (Leviticus 16) and prophecies such as Isaiah 53, which speaks of the suffering servant. The phrase "for us" indicates substitutionary atonement, where Christ took the place of sinners, bearing the punishment that was due to them (1 Peter 2:24). Historically, crucifixion was a Roman method of execution, reserved for the most serious offenses, which underscores the gravity of Christ's sacrifice. This act is seen as the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan, bridging the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity.

Therefore
The word "therefore" connects this verse to the preceding arguments in Romans, particularly the discussion of justification by faith. It serves as a conclusion to the previous points made about the benefits of being justified through faith in Jesus Christ. This logical connector indicates that what follows is a result of the truths previously established.

since we have now been justified by His blood
Justification is a legal term signifying a declaration of righteousness. In the context of Romans, it refers to the believer's status before God, achieved through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ. The phrase "by His blood" emphasizes the sacrificial nature of Christ's death, aligning with Old Testament sacrificial systems where blood was required for atonement (Leviticus 17:11). This highlights the fulfillment of the sacrificial system in Christ, who is the ultimate Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7).

how much more shall we be saved from wrath through Him!
This phrase underscores the assurance of salvation for those justified by Christ's blood. The "wrath" refers to God's righteous judgment against sin, a theme consistent throughout Scripture (John 3:36, Revelation 6:16-17). The argument is from the greater to the lesser: if God has already accomplished the greater work of justification through Christ's death, He will certainly accomplish the lesser work of saving believers from future wrath. This assurance is rooted in the ongoing intercessory work of Christ (Hebrews 7:25) and the security of the believer in Him (John 10:28-29).

For if, when we were enemies of God
This phrase highlights the state of humanity before reconciliation with God. Biblically, being an "enemy of God" refers to living in sin and opposition to God's will (James 4:4). The concept of enmity with God is rooted in the fall of man (Genesis 3), where sin created a separation between humanity and God. This enmity is not just a passive state but an active rebellion against God's holiness and righteousness.

we were reconciled to Him through the death of His Son
Reconciliation is a key theme in the New Testament, emphasizing the restoration of a broken relationship between God and humanity. The death of Jesus Christ is central to this reconciliation, as it fulfills the sacrificial system established in the Old Testament (Leviticus 16). Christ's death is seen as the ultimate atonement for sin, satisfying God's justice and allowing for peace between God and man (Colossians 1:20). This act of reconciliation is a fulfillment of prophecies such as Isaiah 53, which speaks of the suffering servant who bears the sins of many.

how much more, having been reconciled
This phrase introduces a logical argument from the lesser to the greater. If God has already accomplished the difficult task of reconciling us while we were His enemies, it follows that He will certainly complete the process of salvation now that we are reconciled. This reflects the assurance of salvation and the security believers have in Christ (Philippians 1:6). The reconciliation is not just a past event but has ongoing implications for the believer's life.

shall we be saved through His life!
The life of Christ refers to His resurrection and ongoing intercession for believers (Hebrews 7:25). Salvation is not only about being saved from sin but also involves being saved to eternal life, which is made possible through Christ's resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20-22). His life ensures the believer's future resurrection and eternal life with God. This phrase underscores the hope and assurance of eternal life, a central tenet of Christian faith, and connects to the promise of new life found in passages like John 11:25-26.

Not only that
This phrase indicates a continuation of thought from the previous verses, where Paul discusses the benefits of justification by faith. It emphasizes that the blessings of salvation are not limited to escaping wrath but extend to a deeper relationship with God.

but we also rejoice in God
Rejoicing in God signifies a profound joy and satisfaction found in a relationship with Him. This joy is not based on circumstances but on the assurance of salvation and the character of God. The concept of rejoicing in God is echoed in other scriptures, such as Philippians 4:4, where believers are encouraged to "rejoice in the Lord always."

through our Lord Jesus Christ
This phrase underscores the centrality of Jesus Christ in the believer's relationship with God. Jesus is the mediator who makes reconciliation possible. The title "Lord" affirms His divinity and authority, while "Jesus Christ" acknowledges His role as the Messiah. This is consistent with John 14:6, where Jesus declares Himself the way to the Father.

through whom we have now received reconciliation
Reconciliation refers to the restoration of a broken relationship between humanity and God, made possible through Jesus' sacrificial death. This concept is rooted in the Old Testament sacrificial system, which foreshadowed Christ's ultimate sacrifice. Colossians 1:20 also speaks of reconciliation through Christ's blood, emphasizing the peace established between God and humanity.

Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man
This phrase refers to the account of Adam in Genesis 3, where sin first entered the world through his disobedience. Adam's act of eating the forbidden fruit is seen as the original sin, which brought a fundamental change to the human condition. This concept is foundational in understanding the doctrine of original sin, which posits that all humanity inherits a sinful nature due to Adam's transgression. Theologically, Adam is often viewed as a "type" of Christ, with Christ being the "second Adam" who brings redemption (1 Corinthians 15:22, 45).

and death through sin
Death is presented as the direct consequence of sin, aligning with Genesis 2:17, where God warns Adam that eating from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil would result in death. This death is both physical and spiritual, indicating a separation from God. The connection between sin and death is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing the gravity of sin and its ultimate penalty (Romans 6:23).

so also death was passed on to all men
This phrase underscores the universality of death as a result of sin. It reflects the belief that Adam's sin affected all of humanity, making death an inevitable part of the human experience. This concept is echoed in 1 Corinthians 15:21-22, which contrasts the death brought by Adam with the resurrection life brought by Christ. The idea of death being passed to all men highlights the need for a savior to overcome this inherited condition.

because all sinned
Here, the focus shifts to personal responsibility and the reality that all individuals have sinned, as stated in Romans 3:23. This phrase suggests that while sin entered the world through Adam, each person contributes to the perpetuation of sin through their own actions. It emphasizes the need for personal repentance and the acceptance of Christ's redemptive work. The universality of sin underscores the comprehensive nature of Christ's atonement, which is available to all who believe (1 John 1:8-9).

For sin was in the world before the law was given;
This phrase acknowledges the presence of sin from the time of Adam, long before the Mosaic Law was established. Theologically, this underscores the universality of sin, as seen in Genesis 3 with the fall of man. The historical context here is the period from Adam to Moses, a time when humanity was governed by natural law and conscience rather than written commandments. This period is significant in understanding the pervasive nature of sin and its consequences, as evidenced by events like the Flood (Genesis 6-9) and the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11). Theologically, this sets the stage for the necessity of the law to define and reveal sin more explicitly.

but sin is not taken into account when there is no law.
This phrase suggests that without a codified law, sin is not imputed in the same way it is when the law is present. This does not mean sin did not exist or have consequences, but rather that it was not charged against individuals in the same judicial sense. This concept is echoed in Romans 4:15, which states, "where there is no law, there is no transgression." Theologically, this highlights the role of the law in making humanity aware of sin (Romans 7:7). It also points to the grace of God, who, in His forbearance, did not count sins against humanity in the same way before the law was given. This anticipates the coming of Christ, who fulfills the law and offers redemption from sin, as seen in Galatians 3:24, where the law is described as a tutor leading to Christ.

Nevertheless, death reigned from Adam until Moses
This phrase highlights the universal dominion of death as a consequence of sin, beginning with Adam. The reign of death signifies the pervasive impact of sin on humanity, as seen in Genesis 3:19, where God declares that man will return to dust. The period from Adam to Moses is significant because it predates the Mosaic Law, indicating that sin and its consequence, death, were present even without the law. This underscores the inherent sinful nature of humanity inherited from Adam, as seen in 1 Corinthians 15:22, "For as in Adam all die."

even over those who did not sin in the way that Adam transgressed
This part of the verse suggests that death affected all people, even those who did not commit a direct transgression like Adam's. Adam's sin was a direct violation of God's command (Genesis 2:16-17), but this phrase indicates that death still reigned over those who did not have a specific command to disobey. This points to the concept of original sin, where Adam's sin is imputed to all his descendants, as explained in Romans 5:12. It highlights the idea that sin is not just about individual acts but a condition affecting all humanity.

He is a pattern of the One to come
Adam is described as a "pattern" or "type" of Christ, the One to come. This typology is significant in biblical theology, where Adam is seen as a foreshadowing of Christ. While Adam's disobedience brought sin and death, Christ's obedience brings righteousness and life (Romans 5:19). This typological connection is further explored in 1 Corinthians 15:45, where Christ is called the "last Adam," emphasizing His role in bringing spiritual life. The contrast between Adam and Christ highlights the redemptive work of Jesus, who reverses the curse brought by Adam's sin.

But the gift is not like the trespass.
This phrase contrasts the nature of Adam's sin with the redemptive gift through Christ. Adam's trespass brought sin and death into the world (Genesis 3), while the gift through Christ brings grace and life. The concept of a "gift" emphasizes the unearned and generous nature of God's grace, contrasting with the deserved consequences of sin.

For if the many died by the trespass of the one man,
Adam's sin had a universal impact, introducing death to all humanity (Romans 5:12). This reflects the biblical principle of federal headship, where Adam acted as a representative for all mankind. The "many" refers to all who are affected by sin, highlighting the pervasive nature of the fall.

how much more did God’s grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ,
This phrase emphasizes the superiority and abundance of Christ's redemptive work over Adam's sin. Jesus, often referred to as the "second Adam" (1 Corinthians 15:45), reverses the curse through His sacrificial death and resurrection. The "grace of the one man, Jesus Christ" underscores the personal and intentional act of salvation.

abound to the many!
The term "abound" indicates the overflowing and superabundant nature of God's grace. While Adam's sin brought death to many, Christ's gift brings life and righteousness to all who believe (John 3:16). This reflects the inclusive nature of the gospel, offering salvation to all people, transcending cultural and historical boundaries.

Again, the gift is not like the result of the one man’s sin:
This phrase contrasts the consequences of Adam's sin with the gift of grace through Jesus Christ. Adam's sin introduced sin and death into the world (Genesis 3), affecting all humanity. In contrast, the "gift" refers to the grace and righteousness offered through Jesus (Romans 5:15). This highlights the superiority and abundance of God's grace over the effects of sin. Theologically, this sets up the doctrine of original sin versus the redemptive work of Christ.

The judgment that followed one sin brought condemnation,
Adam's single act of disobedience (eating the forbidden fruit) resulted in judgment and condemnation for all humanity (Genesis 2:17, 3:6-19). This reflects the biblical principle that sin leads to death and separation from God (Romans 6:23). The historical context of Adam's sin is foundational for understanding the need for redemption. Theologically, this underscores the seriousness of sin and its universal impact.

but the gift that followed many trespasses brought justification.
Despite the multitude of sins committed by humanity, the gift of grace through Jesus Christ brings justification (Romans 3:24). Justification is a legal term signifying being declared righteous before God. This reflects the abundant mercy and grace of God, who provides a way for reconciliation despite repeated human failures. Theologically, this emphasizes the sufficiency of Christ's atonement and the transformative power of grace. This connects to prophecies of a coming Redeemer (Isaiah 53) and the fulfillment of the law through Christ (Matthew 5:17).

For if, by the trespass of the one man,
This phrase refers to the sin of Adam in the Garden of Eden, as described in Genesis 3. Adam's disobedience introduced sin into the world, affecting all of humanity. This concept is foundational in understanding original sin, which posits that Adam's sin has been imputed to all his descendants. Theologically, this sets the stage for the need for redemption and the coming of Christ as the second Adam.

death reigned through that one man,
Death here is both physical and spiritual, signifying separation from God. The reign of death indicates its pervasive and dominating influence over humanity as a result of Adam's sin. This is echoed in 1 Corinthians 15:22, "For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive." The imagery of reigning suggests a kingdom or dominion, highlighting the power and inevitability of death without divine intervention.

how much more will those who receive the abundance of grace
This phrase introduces the concept of grace as a superabundant gift from God, contrasting the destructive power of sin. Grace is unmerited favor, and its abundance suggests that it is more than sufficient to overcome the effects of sin. Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes that salvation is by grace through faith, not by works, underscoring the generosity of God's grace.

and of the gift of righteousness
Righteousness here is a legal standing before God, granted through faith in Jesus Christ. It is a gift, not earned by human effort, aligning with the doctrine of justification by faith. This righteousness is imputed to believers, as seen in Philippians 3:9, where Paul speaks of having a righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith.

reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!
This phrase contrasts the reign of death with the reign of life, made possible through Jesus Christ. Believers are promised not just eternal life, but a victorious life, empowered by the Holy Spirit. The concept of reigning suggests authority and victory, as seen in Revelation 5:10, where believers are described as a kingdom and priests who will reign on the earth. Jesus, as the second Adam, reverses the curse of the first Adam, offering life and restoration.

So then, just as one trespass brought condemnation for all men
This phrase refers to the original sin committed by Adam in the Garden of Eden, as described in Genesis 3. Adam's disobedience to God's command not to eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil resulted in sin entering the world, bringing spiritual death and separation from God to all humanity (Romans 5:12). This concept of original sin is foundational in Christian theology, emphasizing the fallen nature of mankind and the need for redemption. The idea of one man's sin affecting all is echoed in 1 Corinthians 15:22, "For as in Adam all die..."

so also one act of righteousness brought justification and life for all men
This phrase highlights the redemptive work of Jesus Christ through His obedience and sacrificial death on the cross. The "one act of righteousness" refers to Christ's atonement, which provides the means for justification—being declared righteous before God. This is a central theme in the New Testament, where Christ is seen as the second Adam, who rectifies the fall of the first Adam (1 Corinthians 15:45). The concept of justification by faith is further elaborated in Romans 3:24-26, where it is explained that believers are justified freely by God's grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. The phrase "life for all men" underscores the availability of eternal life to all who accept Christ's sacrifice, aligning with John 3:16, which speaks of God's love and the promise of eternal life through belief in His Son.

For just as through the disobedience of the one man
This phrase refers to Adam, whose disobedience in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3) led to the fall of humanity. Adam's act of eating the forbidden fruit is seen as the original sin, which introduced sin and death into the world. This concept is foundational in understanding the doctrine of original sin, which posits that all humans inherit a sinful nature due to Adam's transgression. Theologically, Adam is often viewed as a "type" of Christ, serving as a representative head of humanity, whose actions have consequences for all his descendants.

the many were made sinners
The term "the many" refers to all of humanity, indicating the universal impact of Adam's sin. This phrase underscores the idea that sin is not just an individual act but a condition that affects all people. The concept of being "made sinners" suggests a legal or positional standing before God, where humanity is seen as guilty and in need of redemption. This aligns with passages like Psalm 51:5, which speaks of being sinful from birth, and Romans 3:23, which states that all have sinned.

so also through the obedience of the one man
This refers to Jesus Christ, whose life and sacrificial death are seen as acts of perfect obedience to God. Unlike Adam, Jesus lived a sinless life and fulfilled the law completely (Hebrews 4:15). His obedience is often highlighted in passages such as Philippians 2:8, which describes Jesus humbling Himself and becoming obedient to death on a cross. This obedience is central to the Christian understanding of atonement and redemption.

the many will be made righteous
This phrase speaks to the transformative power of Christ's obedience, which offers justification and righteousness to all who believe in Him. The "many" here refers to those who accept Christ's sacrifice and are justified by faith, as explained in Romans 3:22-24. This righteousness is not earned but is imputed to believers, meaning it is credited to their account because of Christ's work. This concept is foundational to the doctrine of justification by faith, a key tenet of Christian theology, and is echoed in passages like 2 Corinthians 5:21, which states that believers become the righteousness of God in Christ.

The law came in so that the trespass would increase;
The introduction of the law refers to the Mosaic Law given to Israel. Historically, this law was given at Mount Sinai, a significant event in Jewish history. The purpose of the law was to reveal sin, making people aware of their transgressions. In a cultural context, the law served as a moral and ethical guide for the Israelites, setting them apart from surrounding nations. Biblically, this aligns with Galatians 3:19, which states that the law was added because of transgressions. Theologically, the law highlights humanity's inability to achieve righteousness on their own, pointing to the need for a Savior.

but where sin increased,
This phrase acknowledges the reality of sin's pervasive nature. Historically, as the law highlighted sin, it also revealed the depth of human depravity. The increase of sin can be seen throughout the Old Testament, where despite the law, Israel repeatedly fell into sin. This is echoed in 1 Timothy 1:14, where Paul speaks of grace being more abundant than sin. Theologically, this sets the stage for understanding the magnitude of God's grace, which is not limited by the extent of human sinfulness.

grace increased all the more,
This phrase emphasizes the superabundance of God's grace. In the context of the New Testament, grace is central to the message of the Gospel. Theologically, this reflects the concept of "grace upon grace" as mentioned in John 1:16. The idea is that no matter how great the sin, God's grace is greater, offering redemption and forgiveness through Jesus Christ. This is a key theme in Paul's writings, underscoring the transformative power of grace that not only covers sin but also empowers believers to live righteously. This grace is a type of Christ's sacrificial atonement, fulfilling prophecies such as Isaiah 53, which speaks of the suffering servant bearing the sins of many.

so that
This phrase indicates a purpose or result, suggesting a divine intention behind the unfolding of events. It connects the preceding discussion of sin and grace to the ultimate goal of God's redemptive plan. The use of "so that" implies a transition from the problem of sin to the solution provided by God.

just as sin reigned in death
Sin's dominion is characterized by death, both physical and spiritual. This reflects the consequence of Adam's transgression in Genesis 3, where death entered the world. The reign of sin is pervasive, affecting all humanity (Romans 3:23). The imagery of reigning suggests a powerful and oppressive rule, highlighting the severity of sin's impact on creation.

so also grace might reign through righteousness
Grace is presented as the counterforce to sin, offering hope and redemption. The reign of grace is made possible through righteousness, which is a key theme in Paul's writings. This righteousness is not of human origin but is imputed through faith in Christ (Philippians 3:9). The contrast between the reign of sin and the reign of grace underscores the transformative power of God's grace.

to bring eternal life
Eternal life is the ultimate gift of grace, contrasting with the death brought by sin. This life is not merely an unending existence but a quality of life in communion with God (John 17:3). The promise of eternal life is central to the Christian hope and is frequently mentioned in the New Testament (John 3:16, 1 John 5:11-13).

through Jesus Christ our Lord
Jesus Christ is the mediator of this grace and the source of eternal life. His lordship signifies authority and divinity, affirming His role in God's redemptive plan. The phrase emphasizes the exclusivity of Christ as the way to eternal life (John 14:6). The title "our Lord" reflects a personal relationship with believers, highlighting the intimate connection between Christ and His followers.