Romans 8 Memorization, Part 4

I might not be part of the remedial memorization group after all.  ;)  

On our last recitation Sunday, as I waited to recite my verses, I asked one of the really bright children in our church how many verses he intended to say that day.  I was surprised to learn that I was keeping pace with him.  But I'm not letting that go to my head, because tomorrow is another recitation Sunday, and I wouldn't be at all surprised if Andrew completes the rest of the chapter.  Being "neck and neck" with a '50s something woman might have been all the motivation he needed. ;)


"Therefore, brethren, we are debtors - not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh.  For if you live according to the flesh, you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live.  For as many as are lead by the Spirit of God, these are the sons of God.  For you did not receive a spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption, by whom we cry out, 'Abba, Father.'  The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs - heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together."  Romans 8:12-17


The Apostle Paul now reminds his readers of the responsibility and privilege we have to gain victory over sin through the power of the Holy Spirit.  Since we are indwelt by the Holy Spirit, we are under no obligation to the sinfulness of our flesh.  The Spirit provides us with all we need to put to death the deeds of the body, along with a desire for repentance, forgiveness, and worship.  As long as we are in our earthly bodies, though, this will be a continual struggle.  It is important that we recognize, confess, and repent of the sin in our flesh, otherwise it will become a powerful and destructive force.  We must also have hearts fixed on God and His Word, which is powerful in training us in righteousness.  Our spiritual adoption is a beautiful demonstration of God graciously seeking out unworthy men and women and making them His own children.  Because we have been adopted, we share the inheritance of Jesus, including the privilege of calling God our Heavenly Father.