New Testament
Romans 6:15
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Romans 6:15, Paul addresses a common misunderstanding about grace.
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 57
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians in Rome
What then? Should we sin because we are not under the law but under grace? Absolutely not!
What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Romans 6:15, Paul addresses a common misunderstanding about grace. Some might think that because we are no longer bound by the law, we can freely sin without consequences. However, Paul strongly rejects this idea. He emphasizes that grace is not a license to sin; rather, it empowers us to live righteously. Being under grace means we have a new relationship with God, where we are called to live in a way that reflects His character. Sin leads to death, while living under grace leads to a life of righteousness and freedom. Therefore, the question is not whether we can sin, but how we can live in a way that honors God and reflects the grace we have received. Explore related responsibility.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Romans 6:15 to your life
Understanding that we are under grace should motivate us to live a life that pleases God. Instead of using grace as an excuse to sin, we should strive to reflect Christ's love and righteousness in our daily actions, making choices that honor Him.
Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Romans 6:15 mean about sin and grace?
Romans 6:15 addresses the misconception that being under grace allows for sin without consequences. Paul clarifies that grace does not give us a license to sin; instead, it empowers us to live righteously. The verse emphasizes that our relationship with God through grace calls us to reflect His character and live in a way that honors Him.
Can I sin if I am under grace?
While being under grace means we are not bound by the law, it does not mean we can sin freely. Romans 6:15 teaches that grace should motivate us to pursue righteousness, not sin. Sin leads to spiritual death, while living under grace leads to a fulfilling life that reflects God's love and righteousness.
How should grace influence my daily life?
Grace should inspire us to live in a way that pleases God. Instead of viewing grace as an excuse to sin, we should see it as a call to reflect Christ's love and righteousness in our actions. This means making choices that honor God and demonstrate our commitment to living a life aligned with His will.
What is the difference between law and grace?
The law sets standards for behavior and reveals sin, while grace offers forgiveness and empowers us to live righteously. Romans 6:15 highlights that being under grace means we are no longer condemned by the law but are called to live in a way that reflects God's character, embracing the freedom that grace provides.
The Book of Romans
Romans 1: Paul's Greeting and the Wrath of God Against Ungodliness
Paul introduces himself as a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle and separated to preach the gospel of God. He says this gospel concerns God's Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who is made of the seed of David according to the flesh and declared to be the Son of God with power by the resurrection from the dead. Paul explains that through Christ he receives grace and apostleship to bring about obedience of faith among all nations. He addresses the believers in Rome as those loved by God and called to be saints, and he gives thanks for their faith, which is spoken of throughout the whole world. He tells them he prays continually to visit them and longs to see them so he may share a spiritual gift and be comforted together with them by mutual faith.
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