Romans 5:15

The apostle having noted the parity and resemblance between Christ and Adam in the foregoing verses; here he observes the disparity and difference betwixt them, and that in several advantageous particulars:

1. He compares the sin of Adam with the obedience of Christ, and shews that the sin of the one was not so pernicious, as the obedience of the other was beneficial; Christ's obedience being more powerful to justification and salvation, than Adam's sin was to death and condemnation: For if the transgression of Adam, who was but. mere man, was able to pull down death and wrath upon all his natural seed; then the obedience of Christ who is God as well as man, will be much more available to procure pardon and life to all his spiritual seed.

2. There is. further observable difference betwixt Adam and Christ, as in respect of their person, so in respect of their acts, and extent of their acts. Thus Adam by one act of sin brought death, that is, the sentence of death upon the whole world (all mankind becoming subject to mortality for that one sin of his;) but it is many sins of many men, which Christ doth deliver from, in the free gift of our justification; absolving us, not only from that one fault, but from all other faults and offences whatsoever.

Learn hence, That the obedience of Christ extends itself not only to the pardon of original sin in Adam, but to all personal and actual sins whatsoever.

3. The apostle shews the difference betwixt them two, that is, the first and second Adam, as in respect of the effects and consequences of their acts; if by means of one man, and by one offence of that man, the whole race of mankind became subject to death, then much more shall reign with him in glory.

From the whole, note, The infinite wisdom, transcendant grace, and rich mercy of God to. miserable world, in providing. salve as large as the sore,. remedy as extensive as the malady,. sovereign antidote in the blood of the second Adam, to expel the poison and malignity of the sin of the first Adam.

Oh happy they! who having received from the first Adam corruption for corruption, have received from the second Adam grace for grace.