New Testament
Romans 6:21
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Paul is asking the Romans to reflect on their past actions and the outcomes of those actions.
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 57
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians in Rome
What fruit did you have then from the things you are now ashamed of? For the end of those things is death.
What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul is asking the Romans to reflect on their past actions and the outcomes of those actions. He points out that the things they once engaged in, which now cause them shame, ultimately lead to death. This serves as a reminder that sinful behaviors may seem appealing at the time, but they result in negative consequences. Paul encourages believers to consider the 'fruit' or results of their past choices, highlighting the importance of living a life that aligns with God's will. The contrast between shame and the consequences of sin emphasizes the need for repentance and a change in lifestyle. By recognizing the futility of their former ways, believers are urged to pursue righteousness and the life that comes from following Christ, which leads to eternal life instead of death.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Romans 6:21 to your life
This verse encourages us to evaluate our past choices and their outcomes. By recognizing the shame associated with sinful behaviors, we can make better decisions moving forward. It reminds us to seek a life that produces good fruit, leading to spiritual growth and fulfillment in Christ.
Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Romans 6:21 mean?
Romans 6:21 asks believers to reflect on their past sinful actions that now cause them shame, emphasizing that these actions ultimately lead to death. It serves as a reminder of the negative consequences of sin and encourages a shift towards a life aligned with God's will.
What is the meaning of 'fruit' in Romans 6:21?
In Romans 6:21, 'fruit' refers to the results or outcomes of one's actions. Paul is highlighting that the outcomes of sinful behaviors are shameful and lead to death, contrasting them with the positive results of living righteously.
How does Romans 6:21 relate to repentance?
Romans 6:21 relates to repentance by prompting believers to acknowledge their shameful past actions and the death they lead to. This recognition encourages a change in behavior towards righteousness and a life aligned with Christ.
What themes are present in Romans 6:21?
Key themes in Romans 6:21 include reflection on past actions, the consequences of sin, shame and repentance, the contrast between life and death, and the pursuit of righteousness and spiritual fruit.
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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