25 October 2023

But thanks be to God that you, having once been slaves of sin, have become obedient from the heart to the form of teaching to which you were entrusted, and that you, having been set free from sin, have become slaves of righteousness.

From Romans 6:12-18, NRSV

In today’s reading, Paul wants to help the Christian communities in Rome to discover the fulness of their new life through Baptism in the name of Jesus. He uses the idea of slavery to compare their former and new lives. Paul wants them to know that because of Christ’s resurrection they no longer need to be slaves to sin. He recognises that the power of sin is still active in the world and that people will commit sin. However, they no longer need to be defined by this or to feel trapped into a way of life in which sin becomes habitual. Paul explains that some effort is required on their part. They have consciously to avoid allowing any part of their bodies to be used in sinful ways but rather seek to use their bodies to be used as weapons fighting for God. They have to become a new type of slave – one who is actively committed to righteousness. The reward for their commitment will be far greater than anything gained through slavery to sin – they will have a share in the risen life of Jesus.

• • Why do you think Paul used the analogy of slavery ?
  • What can we take from this reading for our own lives?

As you go about your daily activities, try to be aware of how each part of you can be used for good.