“For scarcely for a righteous man will one die; yet perhaps for a good man someone would even dare to die” (Romans 5:7).
Paul the Apostle transitions to a fresh illustration beginning here in Romans 5:7. In doing so, he will make use of a familiar communication tool to convey his message: contrast. This approach takes two opposing elements and places them side-by-side in order to highlight their differences. When viewed together in this manner, the distinct quality of each contrasting element often becomes easier to remember.
Our first contrasting element involves two different types of people: “a righteous person” (ESV), and “a truly good person” (CEV). We can identify a “righteous person” as someone who is principled, reputable, just, and ethical. We might associate this type of individual with a person who adheres to an established moral code and structures his or her life accordingly.
While these are typically positive qualities, the person in our first example is lacking something important: a sense of empathy, compassion, or benevolence. For example, this person may be someone who “plays by the rules” of a culture, society, or religion. He or she may even be a person who commands a certain level of respect. However, the individual in our first example may not be someone who exudes warmth, kindness, and/or empathy.
On the other hand, our second example (“a truly good person“) identifies someone who is virtuous, charitable, or benevolent. This person is characterized by generosity, selflessness, and a mindset that is ready to help those in need. This type of person might be a distinguished member of his or her community, or someone who holds an excellent reputation as a supportive, kindly, or accommodating individual.
Most of us have probably encountered people who display each of these personality traits. That common understanding serves as the focal point of Romans 5:7. Even though the person is our first example may be a good, respected citizen, there are few who are willing to die for such a person. We might have better success in finding someone who is willing to die for a kindhearted, generous individual. But neither one is especially likely.
Before we continue with this comparison, we should note that Jesus embodied the highest expression of each of the examples in this illustration. For instance, Jesus was someone who followed every aspect of God’s Law without fail. Yet, He was also kind, generous, and gracious, even towards those who opposed Him. Paul will contrast those elements of Jesus’ character against our two examples in the verse that follows.