Romans 5:17-21

When I was in 5th grade, someone did something that really upset the teacher. She held the whole class in from recess. I always thought it was unfair that the group was being punished for the actions of the one. So, of course, the story of bothered me.

But, when you read the letter from Paul to the Romans, we find that Christ's gift is an abundant provision of grace.

17 For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God's abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ.

So the fairness of the condemnation of all because of one man also allows for justification through one for all.

18 Consequently, just as the result of one trespass was condemnation for all men, so also the result of one act of righteousness was justification that brings life for all men. 19 For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.

And the law was added to lead those to the realization that we need redemption. Believing we are without sin is not an option under the law.

20 The law was added so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, 21 so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.