Today we read another one
of Paul’s letters to the early church. In the first half of the letter to the
Romans, Paul deals with the beliefs of these Christians. He corrects their
understanding of the Gospel and urges them toward unity together, trusting in
Christ alone. Today’s passage comes toward the end of that half – giving the
Christians practical direction for what it looks like to live out the Gospel.
This passage is full of both warnings and promises. As you read, note these,
and ask yourself, “What warning does God have for me today? What promise do I
need to be reminded of?
STUDY THE SCRIPTURE
Click here to access the reading from Romans 8:1-17
REFLECTION
Life in the Spirit
By Diane Ward
Jesus promised the Holy Spirit. “I will not leave you as orphans, I will come to you.” (John 14:18)
Paul opens chapter 8 of
Romans with these words of assurance. “Therefore, there is now no condemnation
for those who are in Christ Jesus.” If we are in Christ as true believers, we
are not living with a price on our heads. At Calvary God condemned sin on our
behalf. (John 3:16) We are empowered to walk in freedom. (John 8:36)
Chronologically, the
Spirit’s ministry in earth’s time and space, is staged. First age; God
the Father, the law supreme and the Word spoken through prophets, priests, and
kings. Second age; God the Son, under grace teaching, healing, dying
rising again and glorified. Third age; God the Holy Spirit, the elect, (the
called-out people,) the restoration of Paradise and the Holy Spirit’
sanctification through the Church, the Body of Christ.
The mysteries of the Holy
Spirit have been revealed to us. “To them God has chosen to make known among
the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the
hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:27) Daily living in the power of the Spirit
is another matter, it is one of discipline and desire at a personal level.
In
submission we humble ourselves unto God, setting our minds on things of the
Spirit so that His power is displayed in our lives. (Romans 8:5-8) While we often
struggle with sin and a guilty conscience, the Spirit of God is dynamically moving
toward abundant life in the Spirit. We must let no inferior presence occupy the
place in our hearts where God has staked his claim, a place only he can fill.
“Jesus, without you we are
orphaned and lonely, come as our Teacher and Guide. Leave us not comfortless,
send us the Comforter, come to our hearts and abide.” (Catherine Marshall, The
Helper)
UALC’S CAMPAIGN OF
PRAYER - FRIDAY
FAITH - Pray for faith instead of fear, that many would come to
faith in Jesus and that we would all trust God more deeply during this time.
1 comment:
Love this, Gods promise for us, His children!!
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