Sermon: Wittenberg Academy – Jan 14

14 January 2020

Text: Rom 5:1-21

In the name of + Jesus.  Amen.

Philosophers have always wrestled with the question: “Why is there evil in the world?”  And they have also pondered, “What is to be done about it?” 

St. Paul does not shy away from these questions.  The answer lies in Adam and in Adam’s Redeemer: our Lord Jesus Christ.  One man sinned, and sin spread to everyone – resulting in universal suffering and death.  And again, one man – by submitting to sinful men and to death, for the sake of love, conquers both sin and death.  And atonement is offered universally – resulting in justification for all sinful men who receive the gift.

“For as by one man’s disobedience,” says the holy apostle, “the many were made sinners, so by the one man’s obedience the many will be made righteous.”

The first Adam – whose name means “man” – was created perfect and righteous, but when tempted by Satan, he fell into sin – and he died.  But the Second Adam – whose name means “God Saves” – was not created, but was from eternity perfect and righteous, and when tempted by Satan, he did not fall into sin.  

And yet, He, the New and Greater Adam, also died.  He did not have to die, but willingly laid down His life for His friends.  He died because of love, for His beloved: every son and daughter of Adam who was, who is, or who is to come.  The New and Greater Adam does not yield to Satan, but rather vanquishes him.  And our Lord’s death results in our life; His punishment results in our justification.  

And because we receive the promise, because we believe His Word, as St. Paul proclaims: “We have been justified by faith” and “we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.”  So why is there evil in the world?  And what is to be done about it?  The answer is so profound and joyful that we must sing it: “As by one man all mankind fell / And born in sin, was doomed to hell, / So by one Man, who took our place, / we all were justified by grace.”  Amen!

In the name of the Father and of the + Son and of the Holy Spirit.  Amen.