Day 36: Romans 7-8
Paul’s logical and linear argument in Romans continues in these two chapters. Together, they describe the realities of life in the flesh and life in the Spirit. The Christian gospel is unique in that it embodies an “already, but not yet” philosophy, as seen here. Those who have trusted in the person and work of Jesus have been declared righteous in the sight of God and have conquered sin; they are legally justified and fully belong to him. At the same time, they are growing gradually over time in the image of God and battling through their sin. Romans 7 recounts this battle in a manner familiar to anyone who seeks to walk with God. The desire to do good and to please God is counteracted by the simultaneous desire to sin and to please the self. While elements of this struggle might be present throughout a Christian’s life, there is victory through Jesus (v. 25), and chapter 8 explains the life that the Christian has through the Spirit.
While no person - including a Christian - is perfected in this lifetime, we have assurance that “there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (v. 1). No condemnation! Instead, we are alive in the Spirit (v. 11), adopted as sons and daughters of God (v.15), and co-heirs with Christ (v. 17). Furthermore, we have hope in this time of waiting (v. 23), help when our prayers are discouraging (v. 26), and ultimate victory over anything that would separate us from Christ (vv. 37-39). These promises are astoundingly, deeply encouraging for any Christian. Read through Romans 8 again to savor the goodness of our Lord and all that he has done for us!
Questions for reflection and discussion: Is the struggle described in Romans 7 relatable to you? If so, in what way? What promises in Romans 8 are most precious to you right now? How would you describe the tension that exists between Romans 7 and Romans 8?
