Universalism among the Romans18 Therefore, just as one offense resulted in condemnation for all men, so a righteous act resulted in justification and life for all men. 19 For just as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one man's obedience many will be made righteous. 20 The law was introduced so that offenses would increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, 21 so that just as sin reigned in death, so grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 5:18-21 Introduction Universalism is a theological concept that has become increasingly popular in Christian circles since the mid-20th century. Its growing popularity is primarily due to the popular writings of theological giants such as Karl Barth and Paul Tillich, who have strongly influenced both theologians and biblical scholars over the past fifty years. Since its Christian adoption with Origen, universalism has been understood and presented as a doctrinal view of salvation, which emphasizes the comprehensive love of God and the belief that all things will be reconciled to God. In light of its growing popularity, many individuals, including scholars and laypeople, assert that traces of this controversial view of salvation can be found in Paul's epistles, notably Romans 5:18-21. Therefore, making Paul a possible universalist. Therefore, in this thematic essay, I explore the fundamental understanding of universalism in the first century Greco-Roman context as well as various interpretations of Romans 5, in order to determine whether one can properly support such a claim au- beyond the interpretation of a secular world. .... middle of paper ...... to which those who are righteous by faith are called. " Novels, a Shorter Commentary. Grand Rapids, MI: WB Eerdmans Pub., 1985. 269-98. Print.Dunn, James DG "The Perspective of God's Purpose of Justice for Mankind (5:12-21) ).” Romans 1-8, 9-16. Dallas, Texas: Word, 1988. Robert, Roy David Kotansky and Eldon Jay. Minneapolis: Fortress, 2007. Hermeneia: A Critical and Historical Commentary. on the Bible.McLean, George F. and Patrick J. Aspell. Early Western Philosophy: The Hellenic Emergence. New York: Appleton-Century-Crofts, 1971. Print.Murray, John “Chapter Six.” 1. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1960. 190-94. Wright, NT “Towards a Biblical Vision of Universalism.”.. 54–8.