The Power of One

ByJim Stephens

Reading:  Romans 5; Psalm 66

12 When Adam sinned, sin entered the world. Adam’s sin brought death, so death spread to everyone, for everyone sinned. 17 For the sin of this one man, Adam, caused death to rule over many. But even greater is God’s wonderful grace and his gift of righteousness, for all who receive it will live in triumph over sin and death through this one man, Jesus Christ. 19 Because one person disobeyed God, many became sinners. But because one other person obeyed God, many will be made righteous. (Romans 5:12, 17, 19 NLT)

Twelve times in Romans 5:12-19 the word “one” is used:

  • Sin entered the world through one man.
  • Many died by the sin of one man.
  • God’s grace came by one man.
  • The result of one man’s sin.
  • The result of one man’s righteousness.
  • The judgment that followed one sin.
  • Death reigned through one man.
  • God’s gift of grace, righteousness, and life through one man.
  • The result of one act of sin was condemnation for all.
  • The result of one act of obedience was life for all.

One man, one sin – One man, one act of righteousness. The consequences of one act of sin, the result of one act of righteous obedience.

These verses made me think of the power of one: The power of one person for evil, the power of one act of sin for evil. The power of one person for good, the power of one act of righteousness for good.

Each “One” of us has the power for great good or great harm: One act of sin, selfishness, and hurt can affect many others and one act of righteousness, love, and grace can affect many. Let’s choose to use the Power of One well and wisely today!

Prayer:

Father, Please help me to use the power of one wisely today. Let me be one who affects others for good. Let me do one act of righteousness today that will be a blessing to others. For your Kingdom’s sake!