The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:56-57 WEB
Paul’s words, “the sting of death is sin,” align with his text from Romans 6:23 that says, “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. KJV” Beyond this, Paul teaches that “the power of sin is the law.” After making this compelling assertion, Paul offers thanks to God who gives us “victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Sin is not brought into being by the law. Rather, the law reveals our disobedience to the commands of God. The law exposes our rebellion and sin. This is true for everyone. As the bible records in Romans 3:23, “for all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God. WEB” Sin separates us from God. This separation from the eternal living God is the cause of death.
He Lived Without Sin
The law demonstrates that man is not capable of perfect obedience to God. To remedy this, God came in the flesh in the person of Jesus Christ. He lived without sin and offered himself as a sacrifice to pay the penalty of death for our sins. This is the source of our victory over sin. When we accept through faith the death and resurrection of Christ, we pass from death to life.
Sin does not get the final word. We receive “victory through our Lord.” God graciously forgives our sin when we repent. Turning away from sin and toward the will of God, those who accept Jesus as Savior receive forgiveness and eternal life with the Father in heaven.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for your mercy and grace. Thank you for my salvation by faith in Jesus. Lead me away from temptation and toward a life that is pleasing and acceptable to you. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: The God of Jacob
