Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Romans 6:20

"For when ye were servants of sin, ye were free in regard of righteousness." — Romans 6:20 (ASV)

Reviewing his own remarks, Paul grants that he has spoken “in human terms” (v.19). This is a kind of apology for having described the Christian life in terms of slavery to righteousness. Paul’s reason for this reference to slavery is “because you are weak in your natural selves.” The nature of the weakness, while not expressed, likely relates to one’s moral fiber. After all, Christians have just come from lives characterized by slavery to “impurity” and “ever-increasing wickedness.” The readiness and zeal with which they once served sin now become the basis for a challenge. Surely the new master is worthy of at least equal loyalty and devotion! That new master is not described in personal terms but in personified terms of righteousness and holiness—a lifestyle demanding one’s complete attention.