Romans 7:4

“Wherefore, my brethren, ye also are become dead to the law by the body of Christ; that ye should be married to another, even to him who is raised from the dead, that we should bring forth fruit unto God.”

Context:In this verse, the apostle Paul is addressing the believers in Rome, referring to them as brethren. He begins by stating that they have become dead to the law through the body of Christ. What does this mean?

To understand this verse, we need to consider the broader context of Paul’s teachings in the book of Romans. Paul is emphasizing the idea of salvation by grace through faith in Jesus Christ rather than by keeping the law. In Romans 6, Paul explains that through faith in Christ, believers are united with Him in His death and resurrection. This union with Christ sets them free from the bondage of sin and the condemnation of the law.

In Romans 7:4, Paul uses the metaphor of marriage to illustrate this new relationship believers have with Christ. He says that the believers are married to another, who is none other than Jesus Christ Himself. This union is made possible because Christ was raised from the dead.

By being united with Christ, believers are released from the demands and requirements of the law. The law, as given in the Old Testament, was unable to provide true righteousness or eternal life. Instead, it served as a tutor to lead people to Christ (Galatians 3:24). Now, in Christ, believers find their righteousness, salvation, and newness of life.

The purpose of this union, according to the verse, is that believers should bring forth fruit unto God. This fruit refers to the evidence of a transformed life that reflects the character of Christ. Through the power of the Holy Spirit dwelling in believers, they are empowered to live a life that pleases God and produces good works. This fruit is the result of a living relationship with Christ and is a testimony to the work of God’s grace in their lives.