How does Romans 7:6 describe our new way of serving God? Romans 7:6 — The Text “But now, having died to what bound us, we have been released from the Law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code.” What Has Changed? • We have “died” to what once held us—our old allegiance to the Law’s demands and penalties. • We have been “released” from that jurisdiction. The Law no longer stands over us as condemning judge. • We “serve” God in a fresh manner: “the new way of the Spirit,” not “the old way of the written code.” Old Written Code vs. New Way of the Spirit Old Written Code: – External commands chiseled in stone (Exodus 24:12). – Constant reminder of sin but no power to conquer it (Romans 3:20). – Produces condemnation and death when violated (Romans 6:23). New Way of the Spirit: – Internal transformation: God’s law written on our hearts (Jeremiah 31:33; Hebrews 10:16). – Power supplied by the indwelling Holy Spirit (Romans 8:11). – Produces life, freedom, and fruitful obedience (Galatians 5:22-23). Key Truths Packed into the Phrase “New Way of the Spirit” 1. Regeneration: We have been given new life by the Spirit (Titus 3:5). 2. Indwelling: The Spirit personally resides in every believer (1 Corinthians 6:19). 3. Empowerment: He enables us to fulfill God’s righteous requirements (Romans 8:4). 4. Guidance: We are led, not merely instructed, by Him (Galatians 5:18). 5. Relationship: Service flows from love and gratitude, not fear of penalty (1 John 4:18-19). Practical Outworking • Approach God as children, not criminals (Romans 8:15-16). • Walk daily by the Spirit—consciously rely on His strength (Galatians 5:16). • Expect tangible fruit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:22-23). • Offer yourself to God as one alive from the dead, letting righteousness reign (Romans 6:13). Supporting Passages That Echo Romans 7:6 – 2 Corinthians 3:6: “He has made us competent as ministers of a new covenant—not of the letter but of the Spirit; for the letter kills, but the Spirit gives life.” – Ezekiel 36:26-27: God promises a new heart and His Spirit within us to cause obedience. – Romans 8:1-2: “The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and death.” Summary Romans 7:6 portrays Christian service as Spirit-empowered, heart-driven, and life-giving. Freed from the Law’s condemnation, we now live out God’s commands from the inside out, enabled by the very Spirit who authored them. |
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