Read Romans 6:1-14

 “What shall we say then? Are we to continue in sin that grace may abound? By no means! How can we who died to sin still live in it?” (Romans 6:1–2)

Paul starts this section by confronting a dangerous misconception: if grace covers sin, then maybe more sin just means more grace. But grace isn’t a free pass—it’s freedom from the chains of sin. He uses the strongest words possible: By no means!

When you put your faith in Christ, you weren’t just forgiven—you died with Him. Your old life, defined by rebellion and separation from God, was crucified with Christ. That means sin no longer defines you. You’re not a slave to old patterns. You don’t have to keep going back to the same wells that never satisfy.

Think of it this way: imagine a prisoner who has served his sentence. The doors swing open, and he’s free to walk out. But what if he decides to stay in the cell? That would make no sense. Yet many Christians live as if they’re still imprisoned by sin, when Christ has already opened the door.

Grace doesn’t lead us to abuse God’s mercy. Grace gives us the power to live differently. It changes our motivations. Instead of asking, “What can I get away with?” we start asking, “How can I live for the One who gave His life for me?”

Being “dead to sin” doesn’t mean we won’t feel temptation. It means temptation no longer has ultimate authority over us. Sin may knock on the door, but it doesn’t own the house anymore. Christ does.

Today, reflect on this truth: in Christ, your old self is gone. You are alive to God. You are free. The question is, will you live in that freedom or stay in the prison cell?

Reflection Questions:

• Why do you think Paul starts Romans 6 by addressing the misconception about abusing grace?
  
• What does it mean to you personally that you have “died with Christ”?
  
• Where are you tempted to live like you’re still in chains, even though you’ve been set free?
  
• How can this truth reshape your daily battle against sin?

Journaling Prompt:

Write down an area of your life where you’ve felt stuck in sin or shame. Then write the words: “I am dead to sin and alive to God in Christ.” Reflect on what it would look like to live free in this area.