Romans 5:15-17, Abundance of Grace through Jesus Christ

Romans 5:15-17 But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. 16 And not as it was by one that sinned, so is the gift: for the judgment was by one to condemnation, but the free gift is of many offences unto justification. 17 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.)

The Encyclopedia of Violence, Peace and Conflict in its preface is written, “The problem of violence poses such a monumental challenge that is is surprising that such an intelligent species has addressed it so inadequately. Much has happened since the publication of the first edition of this encyclopedia. The events of 11 September 2011 and their tragic aftermath have raised our security alerts to a new level made this project more salient and urgent. Millions have died because of structural violence. Nevertheless, millions have defeated authoritarian regimes through nonviolent struggle. Millions more – perhaps billions – have been cared for with love and affection. Our hope is that this project will raise the level of inquiry and discourse, as well as the intensity, of our investigation of violence and its alternatives. Perhaps it might inspire some new ways of thinking about these issues and draw more talented people into the process of constructing a less violent world.”

I applaud the effort to bring about a less violent world. I submit to our readers that it is only possible in the gospel of Jesus Christ by the gift of God’s grace that man can be transformed to love one another. This love comes from God supernaturally when we repent of our sins and receive Jesus Christ into our lives. The sin nature that man inherited from Adam can only be rid of and curtailed through the Holy Spirit indwelling the believer. When our sins are forgiven through Christ, then will God give us the capacity to truly forgive others and love them with an unconditional and sacrificial love for God’s glory alone.

Every Christian is a walking epistle of peace wherever God may bring us. We have received abundance of God’s favour, true love, peace and joy that we can be light and salt, retarding decay and corruption. May God use you for His glorious purpose this day. Amen.