Introduction
The central themes of Romans 6 are freedom in Christ and worship (offering ourselves). Paul explains that a slave/servant is obedient to his or her master.
We learn in this chapter that, if we are united to Christ, then we have died to sin and we have a new master. Serving God - having him as our master - is the true expression of freedom. Having sin as our master is slavery and the result of that is death.
This is a question of identity. We could ask: "who are you"? But, perhaps even more accurately, we could say: "whose are you?"
If we belong to God, we should put away sin. It is not consistent with our new life and our new identity.
Questions
If we sin and God shows us grace - then should we keep on sinning? How does Paul address this in vv. 1-4?
If we are united with Christ in his death and united with Him in his resurrection (v. 5), then we are no longer __________? Discuss the significance of this.
From v. 11, in what way are we dead and in what way are we alive?
In vv. 15-18, we learn that we may have one of two masters. What are the consequences of each?
Write a sentence or two about "freedom" in light of vv. 19-23.
The final verse of this chapter (v. 23) is a well-known and is often cited when someone shares the gospel. Why do you think this is the case?
Reflection
People like freedom. People like choice. We like to be free from restriction, free from rules. We like control.
Tempting as this is, and natural as those desires might be, the result is always the same - slavery. We can't help but worship something or someone. We can't help but forfeit our freedom. This is a dreadful exchange.
Invariably, we give ourselves to something or someone and we find our identity in that.
And, in all cases but one, this has damaging and painful consequences. Simply put, we become slaves. This is idolatry. And this is sinful - disobedience to God. And, sadly, the conclusion of slavery to sin is death.
Thankfully, God did not let us remain in our own filth. And, thankfully, at the cost of His blood, Jesus has redeemed us. And now, we have the right and proper master.
It is a joy to serve Him, and the benefit leads to holiness and eternal life. "But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life" (Romans 6:23). Thanks be to God!