Question: Hi Greg,

Could you explain what Romans 4:15 means?

Thanks!

Vic

Answer: Dear Vic,

It would help me to know why this verse is difficult for you to understand. The verse simply says that the law helps define sin, that it brings penalties that derive from its transgressions.

In order to understand the argument that Paul is building, one has to understand this one verse in the context of all that goes before (in the book of Romans) – and that includes Romans 3:20 that tells us that no one is declared righteous in God’s sight by observing the law, but rather that the purpose of the law is to make us conscious of sin. Having been made conscious of sin, we become conscious of our need of a Savior – Paul is leading us to this in Romans 6:23.

The purpose of the law – which itself is holy, and the commandment righteous and good (see Romans 7:12) – is to help us recognize sin (Romans 7:13). The law does not bring life, but death. Jesus brings life, redemption and salvation. The law is not salvific – the Lamb of God is.

Hope this helps.

In Christ,

Greg Albrecht