What distinguishes those "in the Spirit" from those "in the flesh"? Setting the Context Romans 8 paints a vivid contrast between two realms of human existence: “flesh” and “Spirit.” Paul is not discussing mere personality types; he is describing two distinct spiritual conditions with eternal consequences. Key Verse: Romans 8:9 “You, however, are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him.” Defining “In the Flesh” • A life ruled by the old, fallen nature inherited from Adam (Romans 5:12). • Dominated by sin’s desires and unable to submit to God’s law (Romans 8:7–8). • Spiritually dead—physically alive yet cut off from God (Ephesians 2:1). • Unable to please God or understand the things of God (1 Corinthians 2:14). • Marked by deeds that flow from self-centeredness (Galatians 5:19–21). Defining “In the Spirit” • Indwelt by the Holy Spirit (“the Spirit of God lives in you,” Romans 8:9). • Given a new heart and nature (Ezekiel 36:26–27; 2 Corinthians 5:17). • Freed from condemnation because of Christ’s finished work (Romans 8:1–2). • Enabled to fulfill the righteous requirements of the law (Romans 8:4). • Characterized by spiritual fruit—love, joy, peace, etc. (Galatians 5:22–23). • Assured of future resurrection: “the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus… will also give life to your mortal bodies” (Romans 8:11). How the Transfer Happens • New birth by the Spirit (John 3:3–6). • Repentance and faith in Christ’s substitutionary death and bodily resurrection (Romans 3:21-26; 10:9-10). • The Spirit is given as a seal and guarantee (Ephesians 1:13–14). Observable Markers of Each Realm In the Flesh – Mindset fixed on self and sin (Romans 8:5a). – Ongoing hostility toward God (Romans 8:7). – Works of the flesh: immorality, idolatry, dissensions (Galatians 5:19–21). – End: spiritual death now and eternal separation later (Romans 8:6b; Revelation 20:15). In the Spirit – Mindset fixed on the things of the Spirit (Romans 8:5b). – Growing obedience empowered by grace (Romans 8:13). – Fruit of the Spirit evident (Galatians 5:22–24). – End: life and peace now, bodily resurrection and glory later (Romans 8:6a, 30). Practical Implications for Daily Living • Set your mind on Spirit-given truth (Colossians 3:1-2). • Put to death the deeds of the body by the Spirit’s power (Romans 8:13). • Walk by the Spirit to avoid fulfilling fleshly cravings (Galatians 5:16). • Cultivate fellowship with other Spirit-indwelt believers (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Rest in the Spirit’s witness that you are God’s child (Romans 8:15-16). Final Word from Scripture “If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:25) |
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