However, it does not speak of a freedom in sin but rather a freedom from sin. There is a distinct difference. Some take this verse to suggest that the Christian is eternally saved from the moment he accepts Christ and no amount of sinning can change that fact. That notion completely misses the point being made.
The disconnect from truth in that interpretation may be found in that the verse has been disconnected from its context. To begin with, the verse above is not a complete sentence, it is only half of one. The other half reads, "because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death" (v. 2).
The Christ Follower is is not free to sin but rather set free from it through the of the Spirit. The rest of the passage that goes on through verse 17, sets out a clear contrast in living by the Spirit and living according to the flesh. And Paul clearly warns, "Therefore, brothers and sisters, we have an obligation---but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it" (v. 12).
We are "saved by grace through faith and not by works" (Eph 2:8) but not saved for sin but rather from sin. And if one is saved from sin, would he indeed continue in a life of sin? "By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? (Rom 6:2). Think of it this way: If I was freed from a life of prison, would I return to my cell? No, I would leave prison life behind and embrace a life of freedom.
The punch line is found in Romans 6:13, "Do not offer any part of yourself to sin as an instrument of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God as those who have been brought from death to life; and offer every part of yourself to him as an instrument of righteousness." We have been saved from the sin of the world, let us therefore live like it. Jus' Say'n.
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