John Calvin Commentary Romans 5:19

"For as through the one man`s disobedience the many were made sinners, even so through the obedience of the one shall the many be made righteous." — Romans 5:19 (ASV)

This is no tautology, but a necessary explanation of the previous verse. For he shows that we are guilty through the offense of one man, in such a way that we are not innocent ourselves. He had said before that we are condemned; but so that no one might claim innocence for himself, he also added that everyone is condemned because he is a sinner.

And then, as he declares that we are made righteous through the obedience of Christ, we therefore conclude that Christ, in satisfying the Father, has provided a righteousness for us. It then follows that righteousness is in Christ, and that it is to be received by us as what uniquely belongs to him.

He at the same time shows what sort of righteousness it is by calling it obedience. And here let us especially observe what we must bring into God’s presence if we seek to be justified by works—namely, obedience to the law, not to this or that part, but perfect in every respect. For when a just man falls, all his former righteousness will not be remembered.

From this we may also learn how false are the schemes they use to pacify God, who devise for themselves what they impose on Him. For only then do we truly worship Him when we follow what He has commanded us and render obedience to His word.

Away then with those who confidently lay claim to the righteousness of works, which can only exist when there is a full and complete observance of the law. And it is certain that this is nowhere to be found.

We also learn that they are utterly foolish who boast before God of works of their own invention, which He regards as the most defiling things; for obedience is better than sacrifices.