Any good business will periodically evaluate their records and see if they are making a profit. A more careful analysis will reveal if there are certain methods of operation, or certain products that are unprofitable. Businesses also look for "shrinkage" (things like theft, accidents, or other damage). Shrinkage causes profits to be lost. Romans 6: 11 uses an accounting term to evaluate our status in life regarding sin. The word "reckon" (KJV) means" to consider or to calculate." Other translations use the words "consider" or "count." We need to track the history of sin in the world (Romans 1:16-32). We need to consult with the Lord concerning the long-lasting effects of sin on ourselves and society (Romans 3:9-20). As Christians, we have to learn how to understand our sin in light of God's law and the Grace of the Gospel (Romans 7:1 - 8:13). Today, we will focus on Romans 5:21 - 6:23 to take inventory of what sin means to the Christian.

Sin takes charge and controls the life of the unbeliever. Jesus Christ had brought grace to us, so that we can overcome sin (Romans 5:21; 8:1-4).

Baptism is a picture of our death to sin and a new resurrected life through Christ (Romans 6:1-10).

Sin would still try to control the believer's life, but we must consciously look at our responsibilities and resources and resist sin (Romans 6:11-23).

Take inventory of your salvation. You were saved to be made free from sin. You were saved so that you could obey God, not sin (Romans 6:11-12 cp. John 8:30-36).

Your life is a weapon (KJV "instrument" of war) to be used in the hands of God for righteousness or it is a weapon of sin for unrighteousness. Where are your loyalties? (Romans 6:13 cp. James 4:4).

Before you were saved you were "under the law" (i.e. under God's judgment with only the flesh to help you). But, now you are under grace (Romans 6:14). This means that you are still responsible to God, but now you are forgiven and you have the resources of Christ and His Spirit to overcome the dominion of sin - Romans 5:21; 6:15-23; 8:2-4; Galatians 5:13-18 cp. I Corinthians 9:21).