Romans
Ch. 8
In terms of the believer’s spiritual
development . . .
1. The use and placement of the word “therefore”in vs 1.
Therefore is a reference to the thought that precedes
it; what follows is the conclusion drawn from that thought. What precedes therefore
(Chapters 1-7) could be summarized as the contrast between the righteousness of
Christ and the sinfulness of humankind, revealed under the microscope of the
Law. Paul then teaches that justification through faith positions the believer
for sanctification, or the ever-increasing faith walk. Thus, he concludes
(“therefore”) that believers are no longer slaves, condemned by the Law, but
free because of the righteousness of Christ that is imputed to us.
2. The use and placement of the word “now”in vs 1.
Now refers to our position as
justified believers, no longer “Law-breakers,” but now released from the guilt
and penalties of our sin because of the righteousness of Christ. We progressively
rely on the power of the Holy Spirit in our spiritual development and allow Him
to wage the war with sin that Paul alludes to as Chapter 7 closes.
Barbara J. Brooks