"Consequently, just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men." (NIV)
"So then as through one transgression there resulted condemnation to all men, even so through one act of righteousness there resulted justification of life to all men." (NAS)
"Therefore as by the offense of one judgment came upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one the free gift came upon all men unto justification of life." (KJV)
I feel that all salvation hangs on this one phrase in Romans. It is Paul's legal proof of Universal Salvation. I know many disagree, but I feel they do so simply because they CHOOSE to do so.
People may ask, but what about all those quotes of eternal damnation? Damned if I know. This baby seems to trump them all.
This says to me that ALL RIGHTEOUSNESS is imputed TO us, even the righteousness of belief. Therefore, all sin, even the sin of unbelief, is covered by the righteousness of the one.
No matter what else is in scripture, I can't argue against Paul's declarative statement here. Does ALL mean ALL? I say it does.
Now, just because we don't have to believe, does that mean we should not believe? No way! Life with God in your heart and guided by the Holy Spirit is a blessed life; that combined with the certitude of Salvation is an infinitely blessed existence.
This brings about Joy -- a true connection to the perfect love of God. In other words, KNOWING you are saved through Christ awakens you to a bold, God-filled life. Then you are free enough to set others free. Only the free can free others.
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