Romans 5:15

Offence. Greek paraptoma. Literally, “a slip sideways,” “a false step,” “a blunder.” It is an appropriate word to use for Adam’s fall from righteousness.

Free gift. Greek charisma, derived from charis, “grace” (see on chapter 3:24), and means “an act of grace,” “a gift of grace.” Charisma is used for the supernatural powers that are given by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:4, 31). Paul is drawing his first contrast between the effect of the sin of Adam and that of the work of Christ. There is no comparison between the fall from righteousness and the gift of grace.

Of one. Literally, “of the one,” that is, of Adam.

Many. Literally, “the many,” which is equivalent to “all,” as shown by the phrase “all men” in verse 18.

Grace. See on chapter 3:24. To Paul, God’s grace is not only His unmerited favor but also the saving power of His love through Jesus Christ.

Gift. Defined as “the gift of righteousness” in verse 17.

By one man. Literally, “by the one man.”

Abounded. Greek perisseuo, “to be over and above.” Compare the use of the word in Romans 3:7; 1 Corinthians 14:12 (“excel”); 2 Corinthians 1:5; etc.

Unto many. Literally, “unto the many.” Christ died for the whole human race (2 Corinthians 5:14, 15; Hebrews 2:9; 1 John 2:2). The offer of salvation is made to all men (Matthew 11:28, 29; Mark 16:15; John 7:37; Revelation 22:17). Thus provision has been made to meet all the evils of Adam’s fall, a provision as extensive in its applicability as is the ruin caused by sin.

However, this gift of righteousness is of no avail unless it is accepted by faith (John 3:16), and not all men choose to believe. Though ample provision has been made for the salvation of all, only comparatively few accept the proffered grace (Matthew 22:14). There is no limit in the gift itself but only in man’s willingness to accept it.