Romans 5:18 Meaning and Explanation
“Therefore as by the offence 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.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →As one offence brought condemnation to all, so one righteous act brings the free gift of justifying life to all.
What Does Romans 5:18 Mean?
Coming out of the parenthesis, Paul now states the comparison plainly and fully. The structure is balanced: one offence brought judgment and condemnation reaching to all; one righteous act brings the free gift reaching toward all unto 'justification of life.'
The phrase 'justification of life' joins two gifts in one -- a right standing before God that issues in true life. Paul sets the saving work of Christ on the widest possible canvas, answering the universal scope of sin with the universal offer of grace. As ruin spread through one, so life is held out through One, freely given to all who receive it.
Romans 5:18 in the Original Language
dikaioma (δικαίωμα), 'righteousness' -- a righteous act or deed, here Christ's obedience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Romans 5:18
What does Romans 5:18 mean?
As one offence brought condemnation to all, so one righteous act brings the free gift of justifying life to all.