Romans 6:1 – “What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase?”

Extended Explanation

This verse is part of Paul’s argument about the role of grace and sin in the life of a Christian. He has just finished explaining that where sin increased, grace increased even more (Romans 5:20). But now, he anticipates a misunderstanding—if grace covers sin, should we just keep sinning so we get more grace? Paul is setting up a rhetorical question to make a strong point: Absolutely not!

God’s grace is not a free pass to live in sin. Instead, grace changes us. When we accept Christ, we die to sin and are made new. Living in sin is completely opposite to our new life in Jesus. This verse challenges anyone who might misuse the message of grace to justify a sinful lifestyle.

Historical Context

Paul wrote this letter to the church in Rome, a mix of Jewish and Gentile believers. Some Jewish Christians believed following the Old Testament law was still necessary for salvation, while some Gentiles, coming from pagan backgrounds, might have been tempted to misuse grace as an excuse for sin.

The idea that grace could encourage sin was not just a theoretical issue—it was a real concern. Some people believed Paul’s teaching on grace encouraged lawlessness. Paul needed to correct this thinking: grace leads to righteousness, not more sin.

Theological Implications

This verse deals with the relationship between grace and sin. Paul is making it clear that salvation through grace does not promote sin but rather frees us from its power.

• Grace is not a license to sin. Some people twist the idea of grace into an excuse for disobedience, but true grace transforms us.
• The believer’s relationship with sin changes. After receiving Christ, we don’t just “try to be better”—we are spiritually reborn.
• Sanctification is expected. God’s grace doesn’t just save us; it also changes us, making us more like Christ.

Literary Analysis

Paul uses a rhetorical question to make his point dramatically. Instead of simply stating that Christians shouldn’t sin, he forces the reader to think: “Shall we go on sinning?” The implied answer is a strong rejection—this is clear in the next verse when Paul says, “By no means!” (Romans 6:2).

Paul also contrasts two ideas: the increase of grace versus the increase of sin. While grace abounds, it is not a reason to continue in sin. The Greek word for “go on sinning” implies a habitual, continuous lifestyle of sin. This isn’t just about occasional failure but about intentionally choosing sin.

Biblical Cross-References

• Romans 6:2 – “By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer?” (Paul’s answer to his own question.)
• Titus 2:11-12 – “For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in this present age.”
• Galatians 5:13 – “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”

These verses confirm that grace teaches us righteousness, not lawlessness.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For us today, this verse reminds us that following Jesus means leaving our old sinful ways behind.

• Being saved doesn’t mean we have permission to sin. If we truly belong to Christ, we won’t want to live in rebellion against Him.
• Grace changes us. When we understand how much God has forgiven us, we are moved to live in obedience, not take advantage of His mercy.
• We should examine our hearts. If someone claims to follow Christ but has no desire to turn from sin, something is wrong. True faith leads to repentance and transformation.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

Some might see this verse as limiting or harsh, but in reality, it highlights God’s love. A loving father does not let his children run into danger without warning them. In the same way, God’s grace does not leave us in sin—it rescues and transforms us.

God loves us too much to leave us enslaved to sin. His grace sets us free, not just from sin’s penalty but also from its power.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ is at the center of this discussion because:

• He paid for our sins through His death. (Romans 5:8 – “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”)
• He calls us to a new life. (2 Corinthians 5:17 – “If anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”)
• He empowers us to live differently. (Romans 8:2 – “Through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.”)

We don’t just “try harder” to avoid sin. Jesus gives us a completely new identity, and by His Spirit, we are able to live for Him.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does this verse challenge the way you think about grace?
2. Have you ever been tempted to take God’s grace for granted?
3. In what ways has God’s grace changed your life?
4. How can you encourage others to live in the freedom of grace rather than in sin?
5. What practical steps can you take to grow in holiness while relying on God’s grace?