New Testament
Romans 5:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
For if by one man's offense death reigned through that one man, much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ.)
Compare translations
For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.)
What Romans 5:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights the contrast between the consequences of Adam's sin and the blessings available through Jesus Christ. Adam's disobedience brought death and sin into the world, allowing death to dominate humanity. However, through Jesus, who is often referred to as the second Adam, believers can receive an overwhelming amount of grace and the gift of righteousness. This means that instead of being ruled by death, those who accept this grace can experience a new life characterized by righteousness and victory. The verse emphasizes that the grace offered through Jesus is far greater than the sin that came through Adam, suggesting that believers can live empowered lives, reigning in life through their relationship with Christ. It reassures Christians that despite the reality of sin and death, they have access to a transformative grace that enables them to live victoriously.
How to apply Romans 5:17 to your life
This verse encourages believers to embrace the grace and righteousness offered through Jesus. By recognizing their identity in Christ, they can overcome challenges and live a life of victory. Trusting in His grace empowers them to reign in their daily lives, reflecting His love and strength.
Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Mary, Jesus' mother's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Mary, Jesus' mother
Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Romans 5:17
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Romans 5:17
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Romans
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 57
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians in Rome
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Romans 5:17 mean?
Romans 5:17 explains that through Adam's sin, death entered the world and ruled over humanity. However, through Jesus Christ, believers can receive grace and righteousness, allowing them to live victoriously instead of being dominated by death.
What is the meaning of grace in Romans 5:17?
In Romans 5:17, grace refers to the unearned favor and blessings that God offers through Jesus Christ. It signifies the abundance of spiritual gifts that empower believers to live righteously and overcome sin.
How does Romans 5:17 relate to victory over death?
Romans 5:17 highlights that through Jesus, believers can experience victory over death by receiving grace and righteousness. This means they are no longer ruled by sin and death but can live empowered lives.
What does the gift of righteousness mean in Romans 5:17?
The gift of righteousness in Romans 5:17 refers to the right standing with God that believers receive through faith in Jesus. It signifies that they are justified and can live a life that reflects God's character.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.