Romans 6:23: For The Wages Of Sin Is Death, But The Free Gift Of God Is Eternal Life In Christ Jesus Our Lord

Romans 6:23
[23] For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (ESV)

I have had jobs that I have enjoyed. I have been employed at places that tried my patience. In every place I have worked I have been very intent on knowing what I was getting paid. In some instances a person might be willing to endure an unpleasant work environment as long as the pay is sufficient enough.

Imagine getting a paycheck from your employer and instead of a dollar amount it says, "Death." That is a profoundly morbid thought. Paul is making a point here in this verse. He reminds us that those who live a life of slavery to sin will ultimately receive a paycheck from their brutal master, Satan. It will say, "Death."

It might be time to find a different employer. Paul describes the contrast of those who belong to the Lord. Instead of earning eternal death and punishment for our sin, we are offered a gift. First of all, note that God offers a gift, rather than wages earned. This is because our salvation cannot be earned. It is given to those who renounce their sin, and accept the free gift of eternal life.

Consider this eternal life. This life that we receive as a free gift begins right now. When we consider our eternal life we tend to only think in terms of life after death, in heaven. We are given an abundant life that begins the moment we receive God's free gift of salvation. Because we know our sins are forgiven we are filled with and indescribable joy.

What will it say on your paycheck? I pray that it will never say, "death." If you have not received the free gift of eternal life you can change that right now. Confess your sin to the Lord, believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and receive eternal life!