What happensPermalink
Paul counters two misunderstandings about grace and sin. First, should we continue to sin so that grace increases? Absolutely not—through baptism, believers are united to Christ’s death and resurrection, meaning we must now live new lives freed from sin’s power. Second, because we’re under grace rather than law, can we freely sin? Again, no—choosing sin means slavery to sin and death. Instead, obedience leads to righteousness and holiness. Sin pays its wages in death, but God freely gives eternal life.
Why it mattersPermalink
Paul’s rhetorical questions address misconceptions arising from chapter 5 (abundant grace). Believers’ identity and union with Christ fundamentally changes their relationship with sin—grace empowers holiness rather than excuses disobedience. His arguments remain powerfully relevant today, challenging the temptation to misuse grace as a license for sin.
Key versePermalink
For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.