Memorize: Experiencing freedom in Christ
Key Verses: 1-2, 3, 11, 14, 15-16, 18, 22, 26, 28, 31, 37
There was a inescapable link between sin and death. But as Jesus-followers that link has been broken. Even though we may sin sometimes a believers, it does not lead to death. That is because in Jesus through the Spirit He established a new link. Although we still struggle as in chapter seven, death is not the result. That is why there is no condemnation. The purpose of the Law of the Old Testament was to bring life, but it was unable to do that because of our sinful nature. But Jesus fulfilled the requirements for us. It is as if the mortgage on our house is already paid in full. It doesn’t matter if we make payments or not. There is no need. The requirement has been met. We are now free to use that capital for greater purposes.
We can now choose to follow the Spirit’s leading and this pleases God. It is not that we won’t live a life in line with God’s character, but that our hearts and spirits are focused not on keeping a written code, but on pleasing and following the Spirit. We are now linked to life, rather than death. We can experience ever increasing life, even while our bodies are dying.
We are now children of God, if we follow the leading of the Spirit. This adoption leads to intimacy with God. We then know that we are God’s children. But as God’s children we are part of a world that is stuck with sin and the results of sin. Creation itself experiences this bondage and anticipates the restoration of all things that will come at the consummation of the ages. Paul says that the creation groans like a woman in labor. She knows there is an end to the pain, but it is not here yet. We also groan, knowing that our present suffering will come to an end. And in some manner we don’t fully understand, the Spirit intercedes on our behalf.
Because we are now children, even in this groaning, in between state, we know that God is working for our good. Notice not for our comfort or convenience, but for our good. And nothing can break the bond of family. Nothing can separate us from God’s love. No external circumstance or spiritual force can come between God’s love for us as adopted children and for us as Spirit-led people. Our relationship is secure as we follow the Spirit’s lead.
The Arnold Journey 