The sermon "First Man, Last Man" by Don Bell addresses the theological doctrine of original sin and its redemptive resolution through Jesus Christ. The preacher emphasizes the impact of Adam's transgression as described in Romans 5:12-21, highlighting that sin and death entered the world through one man's disobedience, and thus all men became sinners. He elaborates on the contrast between Adam, who represents sin and death, and Christ, who represents righteousness and life through His obedience. The significance of the sermon lies in its exposition of the Reformed doctrine of justification by faith as a free gift, achieved through the grace of God, rather than by human effort. Bell asserts that believers' righteousness is not from themselves but through Christ, delineating the transformative effect of grace which reigns over sin.
Key Quotes
“You know what it takes to be a sinner? Absolutely nothing. Just be born.”
“When that's taken care of, that changes the whole thing.”
“Where sin abounded, grace did much more abound.”
“Our righteousness... is the righteousness of God in Christ. He stands before God in another's righteousness.”
Adam's sin brought death and condemnation to all humanity.
According to Romans 5:12, Adam's sin was the entry point for sin and death into the world, leading to condemnation for all men. The verse states, 'wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned.' This highlights that Adam's transgression had far-reaching consequences, setting the stage for the need for redemption through Christ.
Romans 5:12
Grace abounds more than sin as stated in Romans 5:20.
Romans 5:20 clarifies that while sin increased, grace increased even more, providing a powerful assurance to believers. The verse affirms, 'But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound.' This demonstrates that the grace of God in Christ Jesus is sufficient to overcome the depth of human sin, bringing forth life and righteousness through Him.
Romans 5:20
Christ's obedience is vital as it secures righteousness for believers.
Through the obedience of Christ, believers are made righteous, countering the disobedience of Adam that brought sin. Romans 5:19 states, 'For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.' This underscores the necessity of Christ's perfect obedience, which secures salvation and righteousness for those who are in Him, presenting them faultless before God.
Romans 5:19
God's grace guarantees the perseverance of the saints.
The preservation of the believer rests on God's grace, which is powerful and sustaining. As stated in Philippians 1:6, 'Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.' This verse assures us that our salvation is secure in God’s hands, as He is ultimately responsible for keeping us, demonstrating that it is not our own efforts but His grace that ensures our eternal security.
Philippians 1:6
Original sin explains the need for a Savior.
The doctrine of original sin, stemming from Adam's disobedience, illuminates the fundamental human condition of sinfulness and helplessness. Romans 5:12 tells us that through Adam, sin entered the world, illustrating that every person inherits a sinful nature. This understanding emphasizes the necessity of Christ as the only means of redemption, highlighting our need for grace, which is provided abundantly through Him, thereby stressing the importance of salvation.
Romans 5:12
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