Introduction
Paul’s letter to the Romans not only presents Jesus as the Messiah but also calls believers to live ethically as participants in Christ’s death and resurrection. This article explores how union with the risen Messiah shapes Christian ethics, emphasizing newness of life, love, and community.
1. Union with Christ: Dying and Rising to New Life
- Romans 6:3-5 teaches believers are baptized into Christ’s death and raised to new life, symbolizing ethical transformation.
- This union entails dying to sin and living for God, breaking the power of sin and enabling holiness.
- Ethical obedience flows from this participatory reality, not mere legalism.
2. Walking According to the Spirit
- Romans 8 contrasts life in the flesh with life in the Spirit, urging believers to live by the Spirit who empowers ethical living (Rom 8:4-11).
- The Spirit confirms believers’ sonship and produces godly character, guiding ethical choices and perseverance.
3. Love as the Fulfilment of the Law
- Romans 13:8-10 commands love as the summation of the Law, framing ethical life as self-giving concern for others.
- This love echoes Christ’s own sacrificial love and reflects the Messiah’s kingdom values.
4. Ethical Community and Mutual Acceptance
- Romans 14–15 addresses disputes over dietary laws and sacred days, urging acceptance and forbearance to maintain unity.
- Paul models ethical community shaped by the inclusive gospel of Christ that breaks down ethnic and religious barriers.
Summary
In Romans, ethical living is a participatory response to the reality of Christ’s death and resurrection. The believer’s life is transformed by union with the Messiah and empowered by the Spirit to express love, unity, and holiness within the community.
Would you like me to continue with Article 5 on freedom and Spirit-led living in Galatians?