When Paul uses the word "sin" in Romans, does it mean individual sinful acts or the sin nature?
In Romans, the singular word 'sin,' unless the text clearly indicates otherwise, denotes the old Adamic nature—the sin nature inherited from Adam—rather than individual sinful acts such as theft or adultery. Paul uses it this way in Romans 6:14, where sin is not to have dominion over believers.
Les teaches that when he goes through Romans verse by verse, the word "sin" in the singular is not the act of sin, such as theft or adultery. Unless the text clearly says otherwise, sin in Romans speaks of the old Adamic nature, the old sin nature we are born with. He illustrates this by noting that a child shows that nature just as soon as they can, even in their innocency. Paul then says this old Adam nature shall not have dominion, control, or a reigning rule over you, because you are not under law but under grace. Les explains that few people comprehend God's grace beyond its definition of unmerited favor. Grace is that attribute of God that can take a fallen creature who is under sin and condemnation, with nothing he can do, and reach down and save him on the basis of believing the gospel plus nothing.
For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.
More Questions
What does sin refer to in Romans 6:14?
In Romans 6:14, 'sin' refers to the old Adamic nature.