Romans 8 What it Means to Be in Christ by Dr. Jerry Vines By the Book A Chapter by Chapter Bible Study Series from Jerry Vines Ministries 2295 Towne Lake Parkway Suite 116 #249 Woodstock, GA 30189 Let s Begin Romans 8 marks the end of the first section of Paul s magnum opus. It stands as the capstone of his argument of Biblical redemption. Had Paul stopped with chapter 7, recall he would have ended the section in misery: O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? (7:24). In his next breath, however, he sets the tone for transition to victory in chapter 8. Someone said, If the Word of God were a ring, Romans would be its precious stone, and Romans 8, the sparkling point of the jewel. An innumerable mass of frustrated, defeated, and miserable souls have experienced liberation through these verses. More than anything else, forged within the believer s heart are three undeniable truths about what it means to be in Christ. Thus, as we make our way through Paul s masterpiece, let s follow the outline below: I. Being in Christ Means No Condemnation (vv. 1-13) II. Being in Christ Means No Cancellation (vv. 14-27) III. Being in Christ Means No Separation (vv. 28-39) I. Being in Christ Means No Condemnation (vv. 1-13) Paul begins with the most soothing assurance a believer could hear being in Christ means no condemnation. He writes, There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit (v. 1). Romans 8 is Paul s great chapter on the Holy Spirit, for Paul speaks concerning the Spirit some 18 times. The reason is clear: the only way a person can successfully make a transition from misery to victory is directly by the Spirit s guidance. Hence, walking after the Spirit results in our victory rather than walking after the flesh. Paul reveals four qualities which describe our spiritual liberation from condemnation. First, we have no condemnation because of our position as Christians. Paul states it is specifically to t h o s e a n d those alone Reflection Connection who are in Christ about which we remain assured there exists no condemnation. In Christ Jesus is one of Paul s What is the difference between walking after the flesh and walking after the Spirit? Be specific. Is it possible for a believer to walk in the flesh? Why or why not? favorite and useful terms, making it a key phrase in the New Testament. In Christ Jesus fixes our locality upon our being saved. Indeed before we were saved by placing our faith in Christ, we were in Adam (1 Cor. 15:22) and, consequently, in sin (Eph. 2:1). Living in sin and, more significantly, dying in sin, is the most horrible thing which could happen to us (cp. John 8:24). Second, we have no condemnation because of our protection as Christians. Paul is emphatic there is NOW no condemnation. The Greek translates a strong negative meaning something like no not even one bit. We may feel every ounce of struggle dripping into our lives as it did to Paul in Romans 7. However, even if we feel a sense of condemnation, we can never be condemned because God has already now! set us free. We live under His protection.
Romans 8 Page 2 of 6 Third, we have no condemnation because of our power as Christians. Hear again the Apostle Paul s words, For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death (v. 2). From this verse, we observe two laws contrasted. On the one hand, the law of sin and death fetters us. Paul s experience with this law was recorded earlier (7:21-23). The moment we want to do right, this law attacks us, captures us, and renders us powerless. Are you shackled by this law today? Far too many Christians yield to the law of sin and death, allowing it to take control and cancel out effectiveness in living for Jesus Christ. On the other hand, the law of the Spirit of life frees us. When we trust Christ, a new power surges into our life. Believers have in their lives the very power of God through the presence of the Holy Spirit! Indeed a nonbeliever has virtually no hope of resisting the law of sin and death. When we trust Christ, a new power surges into our life. Finally, we have no condemnation because of our potential as Christians. Paul makes our potential in Christ very clear, For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit (vv. 3-4). Note the Bible s insistence on the law s weakness weak through the flesh. While the law can show us our sin and our personal need for a Savior, the law cannot save us or give us the power to live in holiness. Furthermore, observe the work of the lawgiver. Paul proclaims it was God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh (v. 3b). What the law could not do, God did Himself. He took care of the sin problem, condemning sin in the flesh. Christ paid our sin debt on Calvary. Consequently, we now have the law fulfilled in us through our walk with Christ. In other words, what Christ has done for us (v. 3), the Holy Spirit does in us (v. 4). The four qualities which described our liberation from condemnation raise three questions we must consider. First, who decides in our life? Paul writes, For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be (vv. 5-7). Does our old nature or our new nature act as CEO of our life? Frankly, it is not difficult to tell which nature is in charge. For example, what we pursue reveals much about which nature dominates (v. 5). Do we mind the things of the flesh? Is our interest focused on things of this world? Also, what we produce reveals which nature rules. Does death or life follow us around? The next question is, who resides in our life? (vv. 8-11). Note Paul s words, But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in
Romans 8 Page 3 of 6 you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his (v. 9). The Holy Spirit resides in our life. If we are truly saved, we walk in the Holy Spirit and the Holy Spirit dwells in us. And, the Holy Spirit is quite the guest. He is both a personal guest (vv. 8-9) and a powerful guest (vv. 10-11). The third question is, who presides in our life? Paul leaves us with no doubt, Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live (vv. 12-13). The Holy Spirit is resident. The question is, is He president? If so, there is a spiritual obligation we possess, not to ourselves to the flesh but to the Spirit (v. 12). Even more, there is a spiritual mortification we pursue (v. 13). In other words, we have a spiritual duty to die to ourselves and live to God. Reflection Connection How often do you consult the Bible to discern the will of God? Be specific. What happens if you cannot find your answer in the Bible? For example, if you are seeking God concerning whether or not to change jobs, how do you discern God s will in the matter? II. Being in Christ Means No Cancellation (vv. 14-27) Paul s bold and comforting affirmation that no condemnation exists for those in Christ Jesus naturally leads to a further affirmation: our position in Christ cannot be cancelled. Paul first employs the image of adoption to demonstrate this truth. He writes, For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father (v. 15). And, being adopted by our Lord means never facing the disappointing news that our adoption papers have been cancelled! We have a personal guide! To demonstrate his point, Paul catalogs numerous promises to those in Christ. First, we have the promise of God s guidance. Paul writes that those who are, led by the Spirit of God are those who exist as sons of God (v. 14). The key is guidance, those who are led. We have a personal guide! (cp. John 16:13). How does the Holy Spirit lead us? The primary way is through the principles of God s Word ( John 16:13). Note: nothing will ever be God s will for you if it is contrary to God s Word. Another way the Holy Spirit leads us is through the presentation of our will. There can never be a discernment of God s will for us apart from a surrender of our will to Him (cp. John 7:17). Finally, we are led through the prompting of the Holy Spirit. The term led is in the present tense indicative of being led now. Right now, as we surrender to Him and God s Word, His leadership is happening (cp. Isa. 30:21; Acts 16:6, 7, 10). Second, we have the promise of acceptance. In verses 15-16, Paul assures the believer we have not received the spirit of bondage which is based exclusively on and inevitably leads to fear. Rather we received the Spirit of adoption through whom our hearts cry, Abba, Father (cp. Gal. 4:6). The affection the Spirit inspires in us cannot be missed. The term Abba is an endearment term fully indicative of trust. Indeed our Papa and Daddy have similar connotations. In addition, the assurance Paul reveals concerning our acceptance as sons and daughters of God through adoption could not be more strongly stated than he
Romans 8 Page 4 of 6 gives, The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God (v. 16). Elsewhere, we find the Holy Spirit witnesses to us (cp. Heb. 10:15) and in us (cp. 1 John 5:10). Paul clearly reveals here, the Holy Spirit also witnesses with us (v. 16). Third, we have the promise of inheritance. Paul further records, And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together (v. 17). The conjunction if could imply doubt. However, doubt is far from the Apostle s mind. Paul means since we are children, therefore we are heirs. Paul is stating a fact, not raising a doubt! An heir is one who receives allotted possessions by right of sonship. Now that we are adopted sons of God, we are heirs of God (cp. Gal. 4:7). Additionally, not only is the fact of our inheritance stated, but the fullness of our inheritance is stated as well: we are joint-heirs with Christ. This means everything given to the Lord Jesus as His only begotten Son, has also been given to Because God is with us, Paul tells us we can face our problems with victory in mind. us as His joint-heirs. For example, the government of the world will be upon His shoulders (Isa. 9:6), a reign we will share with Him (Matt. 25:31-32; Rev. 3:21; 20: 20:4, 6). We will also share both in His suffering (Luke 24:26; Col 1:24) and His glory ( John 17:5, 22). Finally, we have the promise of problems. This promise may be unwelcome to us. Nonetheless, it is a reality we must face. Never for a moment do we get the impression that believers have life all figured out or have found a way to completely avoid all trouble, trial or temptation. The only place which exists like that this side of Heaven is Alice s Wonderland. Even so, the problems we re promised do not come to us apart from God s presence to see us through. Because God is with us, Paul tells us we can face our problems with victory in mind. He makes this clear in several ways. First, we can face our problems expectantly (vv. 19-22). One glimpse at the world and it cannot be missed our world is not what it was meant to be. Paul mentions creation four times in this passage. He speaks of the created world, the corrupted world, and the consummated world. The created world is the original masterpiece God envisioned and brought to be. It was perfect in every way, described in Scripture as very good (Gen. 1:31). The corrupted world is the world defiled, invaded by sin. Paul said the creation was made subject to vanity, not willingly (v. 20). In other words, through Adam s willful rebellion against God, all of creation was affected by his decision. The future holds, with the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, the consummated world, And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body (v. 23). All corruption will be purged.
Romans 8 Page 5 of 6 Second, we can face our problems confidently (vv. 23-25). Why may we face them confidently? Just like creation, every believer faces glory ahead. Paul shows this in his repeated use of hope (5 times in verses 24-25). God s presence in our life produces growth in our life, and therefore the prospect for glory is all the more sure. We wait in hope for the redemption of our body. Third, we can face our problems prayerfully (vv. 26-27). When tragedy comes, health fails, and we stand at death s door, what can we do? We can pray! And, the Holy Spirit is present, assisting us, even during our infirmity. It is the Spirit Himself who helps us even when we are ignorant of what to pray. Why? Because the Spirit maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered (v. 26). He searcheth the hearts seeking for what is according to the will of God (v. 27). III. Being in Christ Means No Separation (vv. 28-39) Paul rhetorically asks, Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? (v. 35). His answer in Romans 8 is absolutely no one or no thing can separate us from Christ. To get the full thrust of Paul s conclusion, we must back up to verse 28, And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. First, as believers we rest in God s promise all things work together for good. This promise gives serenity to life. Notice how extensive this promise is. Paul says all things not many things, some things, or even most things. Immediately, we want to ask, how can the personal tragedies we all face be considered good? However, note Paul does not say all things that happen are good; he says all things work together for good. We can be sure no problem of life works against us, but for us. In addition, notice how selective this promise is. All things do not work together for good for all people. Instead, all things work together for good to to them who are the called according to his purpose. This verse makes sense only for Christians. Finally, observe how provocative this promise is. Paul insists we know. Of course, the only way we are capable of knowing is through utter trust in the Lord Jesus Christ. We can be sure no problem of life works against us, but for us. Second, as believers we rejoice in God s plan (vv. 29-30). Verse 28 cannot be understood apart from verses 29-30, the latter of which tells us why God is so concerned to be at work in all the details in our life. We gain a picture from Paul in these verses indicating salvation from a Divine, eternal perspective. Contrary to the human side which refers to repentance, faith, conversion, etc., the Divine side is described by foreknowledge, predestination, and election. In these verses, we may rejoice in God s plan because of His wisdom foreknow. Human knowledge is after the fact. God s knowledge knows no timeline.
Romans 8 Page 6 of 6 Reflection Connection Do you possess the level of certainty concerning your salvation that it is as if you ve died and already gone to heaven? Why or why not? Is lacking assurance of one s salvation a dead giveaway the person is unsaved? Explain. Golden Greek Nugget Paul refers to the the spirit of bondage as he contrasts the believer s experience with the Holy Spirit (v. 15). The term bondage is used exclusively of Paul in the New Testament and simply refers to being a slave. The slavery to which Paul refers here, is a slavish bondage to fear. Christ brings a new found freedom, however, when the Holy Spirit invades a person s life. Also, we may rejoice in God s plan because of His will predestined. The term predestinate literally means to set a boundary, to decide beforehand. This word begins in eternity past and reaches into eternity future. Predestination has to do with the ultimate destiny of the child of God. It has nothing to do with the unsaved (cp. Eph. 1:5, 11). God s intention for every lost person is clear: He is unwilling for any to perish and desires all to come to eternal life (2 Pet. 3:9; 1 Tim. 2:3-4). Next, we may rejoice in God s plan because of His word called (v. 30). The golden chain dips into time and touches our human experience. God issues a call to us. Those who respond to His invitation are the called (v. 28; cp. 1 Tim. 4:10). Fourth, we may rejoice in God s plan because of His work justified. We do not justify ourselves. Instead, being justified is an act God Himself does, a proclamation God makes about us making us not guilty. Fifth, we may rejoice in God s plan because of His wealth glorified. Those justified are those same who are glorified, Paul insists (v. 30). Interestingly, the verb makes it sound like Paul said our glorification has already taken place. What he means is, the promise is irrevocably certain! Finally, as believers we reside in God s protection. We finally learn nothing separates us from God. What does no separation mean for us? First, it means there is no accusation (vv. 31-34). Satan is called in Scripture the accuser of the brethren (Rev. 12:10). But no one can be against us! We are children of the living God. No accusation can stand. Second, it means no desperation (vv. 35-37). Paul writes, Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. Whether it is circumstances like tribulation and distress (v. 35) or it is conquests like being led as sheep to slaughter (v. 36), we will remain more than conquerors through the Lord Jesus Christ. Third, it means no isolation (vv. 38-39). Paul stands persuaded no enemies will ever finally prevail against God s children. Death cannot trouble us, demonic powers cannot terrify us, and neither things present nor things to come (v. 38) will traumatize us. Whether it is the highest star or the lowest, no created being or thing removes us from God s love in Christ. Wrap Up Chapter 8 gives the believer everything he or she needs to possess full assurance of faith. When we realize there is no condemnation to those in Christ Jesus, it only makes sense to rest assured our relationship with the Lord cannot be cancelled, neither can we be separated from Him.