Bible Studies

Introduction to Romans Chapter 6

by Henry Jaegers
11/27/24
For Sale
Author requests article critique

  Message Writer
  Hire Writer

Tweet

Studies in the Book of Romans

By Henry Jaegers

Introduction to Romans Chapter 6

As I have been considering how to expound the meaning of this chapter, I have discovered the need for faith and understanding in order to apply the principles found here.

 Some commentators approach chapter six as a new section in Romans. But if you use that approach, you may miss the spiritual truths that this chapter is emphasizing. And the reason that I say that, is because by following the plan that they are using, then you may find yourself coming to the same conclusions.

 But Romans chapter six is one of the most important chapters in the book and may I add it is important to more fully understand on what it means to be a Christian.

 To begin, to fully catch the meaning of chapter six, two elements are required. They are "Faith and understanding. By faith, I mean, why faith is important and how to apply it to our understanding. By understanding, we can,recognize God's part in providing an incentive to faith.

 To gain further understanding of these two matters, we must return to the teachings found in chapters four and five. That is why I say that it is wrong to treat Romans 6 as a new section. It is rather, a continuing principle found in these two chapters.

 In considering chapter four, I want to clarify anything important that I may have missed. I mentioned that Faith is a new economy established by God, and only through faith can we be part of that economy. That is why Hebrews 11 tells us that without faith is impossible to please God, for he that cometh to him  must believe that He is. That means the reality of His person. He is invisible, yet real. That He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. In other words, only the true person who exercised the faith in a determined effort shall receive the promises of faith.

 And perhaps this opens to us a new approach.  So we see the example of Abraham. who chose to believe the promises of God when doing so was against all forms of logic. God called Abraham to do some things that required a childlike trust without having to have an explanation for doing so.

 Even at his old age in listening to his wife by taking her hadmaid to wife, there was a faith that caused him to do so. But his faith was exercised through that which was humanly possible. That was faith improperly placed. And of course, it had its consequences. But true faith was placed in that which God had promised. A child born from his wife who was beyond the childbearing stage. And we are told. that He was strong in faith, giving glory to God. Strong in faith describes a determined effort to put God to the test. In other words, He was willing to believe against all hope that such a promise should take place.

 And as we come to this sixth chapter of Romans, God is prompting us to exercise a similar faith in order to gain a clearer understanding of what He is teaching us. Why is faith important? Mainly, it honors the one who provided the incentive. That is why understanding chapter four is essential in approaching chapter six.

 But now when we come to chapter five this matter of salvation begins to be developed as we understand the meaning of Justification.   The corruption of Adam's sin was placed upon us without our having anything to do with sin. We received a fallen nature as a gift from Adam (So to speak.)  But God was not finished. He provided another plan that resulted in life. That Gift was one provided by God himself through His Son Jesus Christ. 

 So now, we have seen two things. To refuse the gift of God by faith is to remain under condemnation. But to receive the gift that God has provided results in life.

 So as we approach chapter six of Romans it is important to understand the difference between being in Adam equals death and condemnation or being in Christ which leads to life and blessing. So as we begin our study in chapter six of Romans. we will begin to see the importance of faith and understanding. Faith to lay hold of what we cannot understand, and understanding of what it means to "Be in Christ. Since it is a spiritual matter, Faith is required to understand.  Now in case, I have confused you by these words , let me share with you an experience that I had even this morning, regarding this matter of faith.

 Lately, I seem to be experiencing being unusually tired. Perhaps reaching the age of 87 must have something to do with it. But another thought came to mind.  As I have just completed studying in Isaiah chapters 40 and 41, I was reminded of something I read. Let me share it with you.

  He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.  Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:  But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

(Isaiah 40: 29 through 31)

 How did this verse help me?  First, it helped me to understand that no matter how unmotivated I seem to be, that does not hinder God from working especially when we determine to do something when we don't feel like it.

A couple of days ago while needing to do some work on Romans chapter five. I sat down and talked to the lord and said, Lord, I don't feel like doing this but I need to make some effort. And as soon as I began writing down the chapters, a new strength came to me and I was able to complete the whole chapter with a clear understanding. And I felt totally refreshed afterward.

 Then the verse came to me, of God renewing our strength and the reality of that verse came alive to me as a fulfilled promise from God.

And as we approach our study in chapter six, we are asked to take a step of faith, but before we can do so, understanding of what it means, to Be In Christ must be clear in our thinking.