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Explore Romans 6:23, a verse that reveals the stark contrast between the wages of sin and God’s gift of eternal life. Uncover the historical and cultural context, influenced by Greek philosophy and the Mosaic Law, and see how Paul’s words still inspire and guide God’s worshipers today. A deeper understanding of this verse offers a rich insight into God’s mercy and the path to salvation through Christ Jesus.

Romans 6:23 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)
²³For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift[48] of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Here’s a phrase-by-phrase commentary on Romans 6:23 from the Updated American Standard Version (UASV):

“For the wages of sin is death,”

“For”: This conjunction links this verse with the preceding context in Romans 6, which speaks about the contrast between life under sin and life in Christ.
“The wages”: The term “wages” is drawn from the military sphere in the original Greek (ὀψώνια) and refers to a soldier’s pay or earnings. In the context of sin, it signifies what is deservedly earned or merited as a result of actions.
“Of sin”: “Sin” refers to acts that are contrary to the law and will of God. It is the general condition of human rebellion against or disobedience to the divine will.
“Is death”: The consequence or “wages” of sin is described as “death.” This encompasses not only physical death but also spiritual death, a state of separation from God. The word indicates a cessation or loss of life in its fullest sense, embodying the idea of judgment and alienation from the source of life.

“But the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

“But”: This conjunction marks a sharp contrast with the preceding statement. While the first part of the verse presents the grim reality of sin’s consequences, the second part introduces a contrasting, hopeful note.
“The free gift”: Unlike wages, which are earned, the Greek term for “free gift” (χάρισμα) emphasizes an unearned favor or grace. It is something given generously and without obligation on the part of the recipient.
“Of God”: The source of this free gift is God Himself. The emphasis here underscores God’s gracious and loving character, acting in mercy and compassion towards humanity.
“Is eternal life”: The gift that God provides is “eternal life.” Contrasted with death, “eternal life” means not only unending existence but also a qualitative aspect of life. It speaks of life in fellowship and union with God, characterized by joy, peace, and righteousness.
“In Christ Jesus our Lord”: This phrase identifies the means and locus of eternal life. It is “in Christ Jesus,” through union with Him, that this life is received. Jesus is designated “our Lord,” a title of authority and honor, signifying both His divinity and His lordship over those who trust in Him.

Conclusion

Romans 6:23 encapsulates the Gospel message, contrasting the dire consequences of sin with the magnificent grace of God. The “wages of sin” and the “free gift of God” stand in stark contrast, showing both the reality of human rebellion and the greater reality of divine grace.

The verse underscores the legal and relational aspects of sin, death, and grace. Sin’s “wages” imply a legally binding obligation that results in death, while God’s “free gift” indicates a gracious, relational act that brings eternal life.

Furthermore, the reference to “Christ Jesus our Lord” connects the individual and communal aspects of salvation. It highlights the centrality of Christ in God’s redemptive plan and emphasizes the necessity of personal faith and union with Christ for receiving the gift of eternal life.

The depth of meaning in Romans 6:23 is profound, connecting themes of law, grace, sin, life, judgment, and salvation. It offers both a warning and an invitation, steering the reader to recognize the seriousness of sin and the surpassing richness of God’s grace in Christ.

Historical, Cultural Context, and Bible Background

With the provided background, we can delve into a detailed commentary on Romans 6:23, emphasizing the Historical, Cultural Context, and Bible background of the verse.

Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Historical Context:

The Epistle to the Romans was written by the Apostle Paul around 56 C.E. during a time when the early Christian church was grappling with the theological implications of God’s grace and the relationship between law and sin. The congregation in Rome was diverse, comprising both Jewish and Gentile believers, which may have led to misunderstandings and misinterpretations of Christian doctrine.

Cultural Context:

Greek Philosophy’s Influence: Some Roman Christians were influenced by prevailing Greek philosophical ideas. They misunderstood God’s grace, thinking that increased sin could lead to more abundant forgiveness (Romans 6:1). This was a distortion of Christian teaching that Paul needed to correct.
The Transition from the Mosaic Law: Other members of the Roman church were wrestling with the relationship between the Mosaic Law and the new covenant in Christ. They might have seen the freedom from the Law as a license to sin, thinking that they were not accountable for their actions (Romans 6:15). Paul’s teachings in Romans 6 address this error, emphasizing the importance of righteousness and obedience to God’s moral standards.

Bible Background and Commentary:

“The wages of sin is death”: Paul uses a military metaphor for “wages,” a term familiar in Roman culture, to convey that sin leads to death, both spiritual and physical. This strong statement serves as a warning to those who were abusing the idea of God’s grace.
“The free gift of God is eternal life”: Contrasting the deadly wages of sin, Paul speaks of the “free gift” (Greek: χάρισμα) of eternal life. This underscores God’s merciful nature, even towards those born in sin. The concept of grace was groundbreaking in the context of the legalistic interpretation of the Mosaic Law, emphasizing that salvation is not earned but graciously given by God.
“In Christ Jesus our Lord”: Paul’s focus on Christ as the means of receiving eternal life is foundational to Christian doctrine. It reaffirmed to the Roman believers that faith and obedience in Christ were essential, contrasting the wrong ideas circulating at that time.

Conclusion:

Romans 6:23 stands as a succinct summary of Paul’s arguments against the misunderstandings of God’s grace and mercy that were prevalent in the Roman church. By using terms and concepts familiar to his audience and connecting them with the essential truths of the Christian faith, Paul corrected erroneous thoughts and provided timeless truths applicable to God’s worshipers. His reassurances and admonitions in Romans 6 still resonate with believers today, guiding them in understanding God’s grace, the seriousness of sin, and the path to eternal life.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).