Romans 6:20 (KJV)

What does Romans 6:20 mean?

Romans 6:20 says that when people were "servants of sin," they were not connected to righteousness—they were free from the demands or influence of living rightly. The verse points out that being under the control of sin meant not being guided or shaped by what is right in God's eyes.

Paul is writing to believers in Rome, reminding them of their past before they trusted Christ. He is explaining that their old life was marked by serving sin, which meant they had no real relationship with righteousness. This sets up a contrast with their new life, where they are now called to serve righteousness instead of sin.

The Greek behind Romans 6:20

• "Servants" (δοῦλοι, douloi): This word means slaves or bondservants, not just hired workers. Paul uses it to show a strong kind of belonging or control—being under the power of sin, not just influenced by it.
• "Free" (ἐλεύθεροι, eleutheroi): This word means being set loose or not bound. Here, it is used ironically—being "free" from righteousness is not a good thing, but means being outside its reach or benefit.
• "Righteousness" (δικαιοσύνη, dikaiosynē): This word refers to living in a way that is right or just, especially in God's sight. Paul’s point is that in their old life, righteousness had no claim on them.

Why Romans 6:20 matters

• Romans 6:20 helps clear up the idea that people can be neutral—Paul says everyone serves something, either sin or righteousness.
• The verse highlights the seriousness of being "free" from righteousness; it is not freedom in a positive sense, but a lack of what is truly good.
• This verse connects to the larger argument in Romans 6, where Paul is showing the difference between a life ruled by sin and a life shaped by God’s righteousness.