Aug 18, 2019
Originally Presented: July 8, 2007
Romans 8:1-4
The subject of Romans 6-8 is sanctification. Sanctification is the Christian's growth in Christlikeness. There is a very interesting and instructive dynamic revealed in the wording of Romans 8, which many see as one of the greatest chapters in the Bible. The Holy Spirit is referred to 17 times in this chapter. He is referred to only 4 times in chapters 1-7 and only 6 times in chapters 9-16. Romans 8 has more references to the Holy Spirit than all other chapters of Romans, combined.
This teaches us that the means and power of sanctification is the Holy Spirit. The key to growing in Christlikeness is the omnipotent Spirit of God.
In Romans 8 there are also repeated references to the 'flesh' (13 times in the chapter). This highlights the internal war mentioned in Romans 7:23. In Christians, the Holy Spirit is fighting against the remaining corruption of sin, which Paul calls here 'flesh'.
The wondrous declaration of Romans 8:1 lays the foundation of the struggle of sanctification. "There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." To be released from the penalty of sin, which we deserve, is the fountain of all joy and hope and strength. God did not neglect or compromise condemnation of our sins. He condemned His Son in our place (Rom 8:3). Such justification only comes through Christ. The Law of God could never bring us into such a standing before God. It could only bring us guilt and penalty.
But, hallelujah, because of Christ's condemnation on the cross, those who are in Him have been set free from the awful penalty of God's everlasting and righteous wrath. There is no richer delight.