Romans 5:21 Meaning and Explanation
“That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →As sin reigned in death, so grace reigns through righteousness, leading to eternal life through Jesus Christ.
What Does Romans 5:21 Mean?
This final verse gathers the whole chapter into a single sweeping statement. Sin has 'reigned unto death,' ruling over humanity and ending in the grave -- the dominion Paul has traced back to Adam.
But grace now takes the throne. It reigns 'through righteousness' and leads 'unto eternal life,' all of it 'by Jesus Christ our Lord.' The same royal language once given to sin is now given to grace, but with a far greater outcome -- not death but eternal life. Christ stands as the One through whom this reign of grace comes, and on His name the chapter rests its hope.
Romans 5:21 in the Original Language
aionios (αἰώνιος), 'eternal' -- everlasting, belonging to the age to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Romans 5:21
What does Romans 5:21 mean?
As sin reigned in death, so grace reigns through righteousness, leading to eternal life through Jesus Christ.