Antinomianism
This word originates from the Greek “anti-nomos” meaning “opposing law.” An antinomian is someone who claims that grace frees you from the obligation to obey God’s law.
Paul warned Christians that they should not use God’s grace as an excuse for sin (Romans 6:1-2, 15). First century heretics mistook the grace of God as license to sin (Jude 4). God expects Christians to obey his moral law.
Romans 6 Outline
6:1-14
Dead to sin. Alive to God.
6:1
Should we sin so grace abounds?
6:2
No, we died to sin.
6:3-10
We were baptized to walk in newness of life.
6:11-14
Consider yourself dead to sin, alive to God.
6:15-23
Liberated from Sin
6:15-19
You serve either sin or righteousness.
6:20-23
Freedom from sin produces eternal life.
Grace
Grace is the unmerited favor of God. Grace was kindly given by God as a free gift (Romans 3:24). God forgives us of sin, not because we deserve it, but because we need forgiveness. God’s grace operates through the sacrifice of Jesus (Romans 3:23-25, 4:25). Grace liberates us from sin (Romans 6:14).
Baptism
Baptism is faith expressed. It draws a line between a person’s old life and new life. The Christian’s new life begins at baptism, when the believer is united with Christ (Romans 6:3-7).
Christians are united with Jesus in the likeness of his death and resurrection through baptism. Submersion signifies death (Romans 6:3-5). Rising out of the water is likened to the resurrection (Colossians 2:12).
Baptism occurs at a definite, observable moment in time, and does several things:
- Purifies you by washing away sin (Acts 22:16).
- Connects you to Christ (Galatians 3:27, Romans 6:3-7)
- Adds you to the church (1st Corinthians 12:13, 27).
- Gives you the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38).
- Saves you (1st Peter 3:21).