Shall we continue in sin that grace may abound? God forbid how shall we that are dead to sin live any longer therein? The interpretation of Romans chapter 6 verse 2 is one of the most contested verses in the book of Romans if not the New Testament! What does Paul mean by this? Is the Christian immune from the power or influence of sin? Is sin no longer attractive to the Christian? Is the Christian no longer responsible for his sin? In this bible teaching message from Romans chapter 6 we present the case that Romans chapter 6 verse 2 and our death to sin is the condition for entry into the presence of God. Death is the personal consequence of sin rather than the judicial consequence of sin which we find in Romans chapter 3. This is the condition of entry back to Eden, back to God fulfilled in Jesus Christ who died our death that we might be raised into the life of Jesus. This is a truth pictured in baptism by immersion, referenced in Romans chapter 6 verse 4. 

Dr J Stewart Gillespie

The burden of sin, guilt and condemnation are carried by the Lord Jesus in Romans chapter 3 to 5. The propitiation of Jesus Christ at the mercy seat brings reconciliation between the sinner and a Holy and righteous God. The penalty of our sin is dealt with at the cross of Jesus Christ. He is my substitute and sacrifice for my sin. In Romans chapter 6 we move from the burdens that Jesus bore to the blessings that Jesus brings for the Christian. The truth of sanctification is opened up, that I might yield to the God from whom I was separated from, serve Him and glorify God forever, the purpose for which I was created. Systematic studies in Romans. 

Dr J Stewart Gillespie 

New Cumnock

Romans chapter 6 begins the great section in Paul's letter to the Romans on the subject of sanctification. Christ has died for sin in Romans chapters 3 to 5 and now we see the application of the truth that the Lord Jesus has died to sin in Romans chapters 6 to 8. Paul's preaching of the gospel of God's free Grace triggers the question "shall we continue in sin that grace may abound?" Paul answers this great question through chapters 6 to 8 of Romans. Continuance perpetually in sin for the Christian in incompatible with their relationship with Jesus Christ, with the Righteousness of God and the Glory given to Jesus Christ. We cannot have the blessings of the cross of Jesus Christ with the Christ of the cross. There can be no forgiveness of sins without regeneration. By the work of Jesus Christ the Christian has died to sin and the penalty has been paid. 

Dr J Stewart Gillespie