“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom. 6:23 NKJ).
What a study in contrasts! Wages and gifts. These two words are so opposite in meaning that we could easily overlook the full import of their significance.
The Greek word translated wages is opsonion (op-so’-nee-on). It is the word for subsistence or salary. It involves the concept of a reward of recompense for services rendered. Thus “the wages of sin” refers to the payoff which comes as a result of serving Satan.
The deceptive thing about sin is that it so often comes disguised as pleasure and fulfillment. Here, Paul is saying that the devil is a deceiver who lures people into a life of sin by promising them all kinds of future bliss. However, the real payoff for all their hard work (yes, sinners work real hard at sinning!) is disintegration, destruction, and death.
The gift of God. What a beautiful contrast to the wages of sin. The original Greek word for gift is charisma (khar’-is-mah), meaning “an endowment, something given freely.” God freely bestows grace (unmerited favor) on those who call upon His name. Blessings, benefits, and bestowments all come to us from a loving, heavenly Father Who gives, and gives, and keeps on giving – because it is His nature to give.
The wages of death is earned. The gift of life is freely received. Before a conversion we were on Satan’s payroll, now we are on God’s gift list! Satan’s final payoff is death, but God’s ultimate gift is eternal life. Which do you prefer: death or life? Wages or God’s gift?
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.