Romans 8, part 1- Life in the Spirit

I love this image created by Ron Dicianni, Safely Home. Take a look at the details, they are so appropriate for what we have been studying. See that he is no longer bound by the chains of sin? See the crown laid at Jesus feet that shows there is nothing we can do to earn our salvation? See the nail marks on His hands, the red carpet representing the blood shed for the world (notice the map on the floor), the crown of thorns that showed the price Jesus paid? See the robe of white waiting for the man who is now made new? Do you see the look of great love on Christ face? A sinner redeemed to God, a child of God, a co-heir with Christ, life eternal; what a beautiful picture of what is happening in Romans.

Now here comes my ultimate favorite part of Romans, Chapter 8! The first portion of scripture talks about our life in the Spirit. I like how chapter 8 is the turning point for this book. Paul has laid his case for sin and the law and now here in this chapter here is what Jesus can do about our wretched sinful state.

¹ Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, ² because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.

I love verse 1-2; it is a good portion of scripture to memorize. I love how it goes on to tell us that Jesus came in flesh form here on earth; but lived a life led by the Spirit. Why? Because He knew He needed to become a sin offering to purchase our souls from death. He lived blameless so that He could be a perfect sacrifice. Our creator chose to die so that we could live....so amazing!

¹¹ And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you.

There is this amazing work that happens when the Spirit of God lives in your life. When our lives are controlled by the Spirit, instead of our flesh, the benefits are huge. Let's compare the two from these verses (1-17):

Life controlled by the flesh: mind set on the desires of flesh; brings death; hostile to God; cannot obey nor submit to the law; cannot please God; does not belong to Christ.

Life controlled by the Spirit: mind set on what the Spirit desires; brings life and peace; children of God; Sonship; co-heirs with Christ; we share in His glory.

¹⁴ For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God. ¹⁵ The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship. And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” ¹⁶ The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. ¹⁷ Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.

Then Paul closes out this first portion with verse 14-17; every Christ follower should memorize this part of scripture... it is our confidence ....it is our HOPE! I blogged about being heirs before during our GEPC study take a look at it. When we are led by the Spirit we are children of God. We are ADOPTED to Sonship! We will then share in all that He is in all of His Glory! How awesome, exciting, encouraging this is?! What a Hope we have!!!!!! Thank you Jesus for coming and being our sin offering the perfect spotless lamb that redeems us!

I will....
GET JOY!