What does Romans 6:21 mean?
"What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death." - Romans 6:21

Romans 6:21 (KJV) states: "What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death." This verse comes in the context of a larger passage in which the apostle Paul addresses the believers in Rome about the significance of their new life in Christ. In this specific verse, Paul is challenging the believers to understand and reflect on the consequences of their past sinful actions.
The verse begins with the question, "What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed?" Here, Paul is prompting the believers to consider the outcome or result of their previous sinful behavior. By asking this question, he is directing their attention to the fact that their past actions resulted in nothing beneficial or positive, but rather led them to shame and regret. This statement serves as a reminder of the emptiness and futility of pursuing a life of sin. It encourages believers to reflect on their past mistakes and recognize that there is no lasting value or benefit in living a life that is contrary to God's will.
Paul follows this question with the declaration, "for the end of those things is death." With this statement, he emphasizes the ultimate consequence of a life of sin. The "end" here refers to the outcome or result of engaging in sinful behavior. Paul is reminding the believers that the ultimate consequence of a life lived in sin is spiritual death. This spiritual death does not just refer to physical death, but more importantly, the separation from God and the eternal consequences of living a life in rebellion against Him.
This verse offers a powerful message about the nature of sin and its consequences. It highlights the reality that sin ultimately leads to spiritual death and separation from God. Through this, Paul is encouraging believers to turn away from their former way of life and to embrace the new life that is found in Christ. This verse serves as a reminder of the transformation that takes place in the life of a believer when they turn from sin and surrender to God. It underscores the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God and the eternal consequences of our actions.
The themes present in Romans 6:21 include the contrast between a life of sin and a life in Christ, the consequences of sin, and the need for repentance and transformation. The verse serves to challenge believers to consider the outcome of their actions and to pursue a life that is in accordance with God's will.
Symbolism is also present in this verse, as the "fruit" mentioned can symbolize the results or outcomes of our actions. In this context, the fruit of sin leads to shame and death, while the fruit of a life in Christ leads to righteousness and eternal life. This symbolism serves as a powerful visual reminder of the consequences of our choices and actions.
Overall, Romans 6:21 (KJV) offers a poignant and convicting message about the nature of sin and its consequences. It serves as a call to believers to live a life that is in alignment with God's will and to turn away from the emptiness and futility of a life lived in sin. The verse provides a powerful reminder of the transformative power of Christ and the eternal consequences of our actions.
Have questions about Romans 6:21?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
Romans 6:21 Artwork
Romans 6:21 - "What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death."
"What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death." - Romans 6:21
Romans 12:21 - "Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good."
Romans 8:6
Romans 6:23
Romans 6:23
Romans 6:7 - "For he that is dead is freed from sin."
Romans 16:21 - "Timotheus my workfellow, and Lucius, and Jason, and Sosipater, my kinsmen, salute you."
Romans 3:21 - "But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets;"
Romans 15:21 - "But as it is written, To whom he was not spoken of, they shall see: and they that have not heard shall understand."
Acts 16:21 - "And teach customs, which are not lawful for us to receive, neither to observe, being Romans."
Romans 4:21 - "And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform."
Romans 7:21 - "I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me."
Romans 11:21 - "For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee."
"Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good." - Romans 12:21
"Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good." - Romans 12:21
Romans 2:6 - "Who will render to every man according to his deeds:"
Romans 6:6 - "Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin."
Romans 8:6 - "For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace."
Romans 16:6 - "Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us."
Romans 3:6 - "God forbid: for then how shall God judge the world?"
Romans 1:6 - "Among whom are ye also the called of Jesus Christ:"
Romans 8:21 - "Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God."
Matthew 21:21 Philippians 4:6-7 Ephesians 6:10-18 Put the words on the photo
Romans 6:18 - "Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness."
Matthew 21:21 Philippians 4:6-7 Ephesians 6:10-18
Romans 9:21 - "Hath not the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel unto honour, and another unto dishonour?"
Romans 6:20 - "For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness."
Romans 2:21 - "Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal?"
Romans 1:21 - "Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened."