1. The reign of sin and death (12-14, 20-21)
Adam brought sin and death into the world to all people through his one act of disobedience. Even though there was no official law of God until Moses' day, sin and death reigned in the world. When God's law came, it actually had no power to save sinners; rather, it just revealed our sinfulness all the more.
2. The gift of righteousness (15-19)
Adam brought sin, death and condemnation to all people. In contrast, Jesus Christ brought great blessings of grace, righteousness and eternal life to all who believe. These are gifts from God. We can never earn or deserve them. We simply receive these abundant blessings by faith in Jesus Christ.