we who died to sin: Paul explains in 6:3–10 our new relationship to sin is possible because we are closely connected to the death of Jesus. Just as dying means entrance into an entirely new state of being, our relationship with sin is now different because of Christ’s death.
To be dead to sin does not mean that believers no longer feel temptation or desire to sin. Believers are still involved in a struggle against sin (6:12–14). However, Christians no longer have to live as helpless slaves to sin. Because of Christ’s death, they are able to choose not to sin (6:6, 14, 16–22).