Dead to Sin, Alive in Christ: Living in Freedom
Inspired by Romans 6 | Insights from the Grace and Truth Study Bible
Imagine a prisoner who has been released from captivity. The chains are off, the cell door stands wide open, and freedom is fully granted. Yet, instead of stepping into the light of freedom, the prisoner lingers in the shadows of the cell, still gripping the cold, broken chains.
This is the picture Paul paints in Romans 6. Through Christ, we have been set free from the bondage of sin, yet how often do we find ourselves reaching back for those broken chains? Paul reminds us that through our union with Jesus in His death and resurrection, we are no longer prisoners to sin. We are free.
Our baptism symbolizes this truth. Just as Christ was buried and raised, we too have died to sin and now live a new life in God (Romans 6:3–4). Our old self—ruled by sin—is gone. We are no longer bound by its demands. We are alive to God, invited to live under His grace and righteousness.
Paul makes it clear: sin is no longer our master. We aren’t to offer our lives to sin, but to God, who lovingly calls us into holiness and freedom (Romans 6:12–13). The Christian life isn’t about returning to old patterns or grasping for control; it’s about resting in the reality that Christ has already secured our freedom and given us a new identity.
The choice is clear: sin offers only death and emptiness, but God gives the free gift of eternal life in Jesus Christ (Romans 6:23). Why cling to chains when God has handed us the keys to life?
Prayer:
Father, thank You for setting us free from the grip of sin through Jesus’ death and resurrection. Remind us that we are no longer bound by our old ways but are alive in You. Lead us to offer every part of our lives to You, trusting that You are working holiness and life within us. We choose to walk in the freedom and joy You have graciously given. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Final Thought:
Let go of the broken chains. The door is open. Step boldly into the freedom Christ has secured for you.