How does Romans 8:12 encourage us to reject living according to the flesh? Romans 8:12 in Its Own Words “Therefore, brothers, we have an obligation, but it is not to the flesh, to live according to it.” Why Paul Uses the Word “Obligation” • The term signals a debt—something owed. • In Christ, the only debt remaining is love (Romans 13:8), never obedience to sinful cravings. • The verse implies a choice: we either pay a debt to the flesh (which leads to death, v.13) or we honor the debt of gratitude to the Spirit who gave us life. Defining “the Flesh” • Not skin and bones, but the sin-ruled self (Romans 7:18). • Marked by desires opposed to God’s will (Galatians 5:19-21). • The flesh promises freedom but enslaves (John 8:34). Our Debt Cancelled, Our Power Supplied • Christ condemned sin in the flesh (Romans 8:3), so its claim is nullified. • The Spirit who raised Jesus now lives in us (Romans 8:11), empowering new obedience. • Because the Spirit indwells, rejecting the flesh is not self-help; it is Spirit-enabled victory (Galatians 5:16). Linked Truths That Reinforce the Call • Romans 6:12-14 — “Sin shall not be your master.” • Colossians 3:5 — “Put to death, therefore, the components of your earthly nature.” • Titus 2:11-12 — Grace trains us “to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives.” • 1 Peter 2:11 — We “abstain from fleshly passions that wage war against the soul.” Practical Ways to Reject the Flesh 1. Daily mind-set reset: set your mind on the things of the Spirit (Romans 8:5-6). 2. Scripture saturation: hide the Word in your heart to guard against sin (Psalm 119:11). 3. Prayerful dependence: ask the Spirit for strength (Ephesians 3:16). 4. Gathered encouragement: fellowship fuels holiness (Hebrews 10:24-25). 5. Active replacement: replace sinful habits with Spirit-led deeds of righteousness (Ephesians 4:22-24). Living the Verse Today • Refuse any sense that you “owe” the flesh satisfaction; its balance is zero. • Remember the Spirit’s presence as power, not just comfort. • Walk moment by moment in grateful obedience—your real “obligation” of love. |
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