The Law of The Spirit of Life

As we transition to Chapter 8 of Romans, there are some comparisons that are necessary to note between chapters 7 and 8. In chapter 7 the main focus is on the Law, whereas, in chapter 8 the main focus is on the Holy Spirit. Living by the Law Life in the Spirit Bondage Freedom Flesh spirit (referring to man’s spirit) Condemnation Justification Death – Ro 7:5 Life – Ro 7:4 Sin takes a stronghold Sin loses its dominion These are just some of the realities that can be compared between chapters 7 and 8. What is particularly clear from this observation is the life spoken of in chapter 7, is that of a person who is living under the Law. This signifies that such a person is not in Christ. It is made vividly clear in the first verse of chapter 8, “There is now then no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus.” The Law brings condemnation, and the person in chapter 7 is filled with condemnation. On the other hand, the life that is spoken about in chapter 8 is freed from condemnation and is fully justified in verse 30,”and those whom He predestined, these He also called; and those whom He called, these He also justified; and those whom He justified, these He also glorified.” Chapter 8 centers on the kind of living that results from the Law of The Spirit of Life, this Life is spoken of through the book of Romans, in 1: 17, For the righteousness of God is revealed in it out of faith to faith, as it is written, “But the righteous shall have life and live it by faith”; in 2:7; 5:10; 5:17, 18; 5:21.