17 But if, in our endeavor to be justified in Christ, we too were found to be sinners, is Christ then a servant of sin? Certainly not! 18 For if I rebuild what I tore down, I prove myself to be a transgressor.

If followers of Christ begin to think that they are only sinners, there will be much despair. Interactions with people will only be in fear. On the other side if they believe they are only forgiven there can be a gross pride and arrogance about them making them not fun to be around. The beauty of this passage is that, as Luther said, followers of Christ are at the same time both sinners and forgiven! This brings the unthinkable – bold humility!

God, help us to, by grace, see both!