- -In Direct, Bite-Size Statements
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as a circumcised Jew (outwardly), but as an uncircumcised believer (one circumcised inwardly), who acted upon his faith.
The significance of Abraham's case to us is two-Fold: (1) lie was an example for all who so trust in God, being the father of many nations; and, (2) The blessings of the promise, being by promise, were his on the basis of a life-time of faithfulness rather than by perfect (meritorious) lawkeeping or outward fleshly marks.
Jesus Christ died (as the offering for our sins) and was resurrected (to he our intercessor) so that all who trust in Him might have forgiveness of sins. True believers are no longer enemies of God, but are freed from guilt, and arc at peace with God. We rejoice in hope, even in times of tribulation, for we trust in God's grace. God is reconciled to imperfect man through the death and the resurrected life of Christ.
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Adam and Christ provide a contrasting study, for these two represent contrasting character groups. Adam first sinned, becoming the primordial "father" of sin; and because of his sin he was separated from God. All men have been separated from God, because all have partaken of the spirit of rebellion which he introduced into the world, each becoming a sinner. Whether men sinned by violating their conscience, as did the Gentiles between Adam and Moses; or by violating positive precepts, given through Moses, as did the Jews; the end is the some. Adam's sin is representative of all that followed, and his death (separation from God) becomes The Death, considered abstractly, which envelops mankind. On the other hand one man, Jesus Christ, by the gift of himself upon the cross, became the "elder brother" of those who trust in Him and thereby stand rightwise with God.
Adam and Christ offer contrast in the character of their effect upon mankind: the first bringing separation from God, the second abounding in grace. They offer contrast in results: the first introducing condemnation, the second producing the means of justification. The Death was initiated by one, and The Righteousness (also considered abstractly) was initiated by the other one. Death which became universal, having been introduced by Adam; was countered by the universal remedy, offered through Jesus Christ to Gentiles as well as to Jews. One brought sin into the world, and all who were influenced thereby became sinners; but the other was obedient (unto the death of the cross), and as many as are influenced thereby may be righteous, through the forgiveness of sins.
Law, in and of itself, only makes sin (and the need for forgiveness) more apparent. But our need is more than met by grace, which reigns unto eternal life through the self-sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
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This takes us through chapter 5, (if you are a charitable reader). See editorial (p.2, this issue) for introduction. We plan to complete this effort in following issues. Criticisms and assistance will be appreciated.