Five favorites from Romans 8:1-2

There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life has set you free in Christ Jesus from the law of sin and death.
Romans 8:1-2

Since we’ve started memorizing Romans 8 this week, I’m seeing it everywhere.Like in my flowers.

The cold weather the past few nights has divided them into two distinct groups: the ones that will live despite the chilly temperatures, and the ones now dead.  Isn’t one distinguishing mark of a believer that he lives on despite all else? Sounds like Romans 8 to me.

Here are five things I’ve loved from Romans 8:1-2 this week.

1.  No
In Christ, we aren’t just forgiven a little, for just a few minor things. We are so forgiven that we have NO guilty verdicts held against us. None. Zero. 

Combined with “condemnation,” I love to hear the word “no”!

2. Now
I also love the time factor that Paul adds in verse 1. Our deliverance isn’t just for the future. It’s for our present!

We don’t have to wait for it. It’s immediate.

3. Spirit of life
One of my favorite Greek words is pneuma for Spirit. It means “breath,” or a “current” of air. Combine that with the Greek word here for life, zoe, an “absolute fullness of life” and we see quite the gift we’re receiving.

A full breath of life. Breathe deep!

4. Sin and death
In sharp contrast to Spirit is sin. And in contrast to life is death. We are no longer ruled by sin, no longer ruled by death. While we still see them both, neither are our master.

Because...

5. Free in Christ Jesus
Both verses 1 and 2 remind us why these beautiful truths are ours: because we are in Christ Jesus. Only in him are we free, not condemned, now, breathing deeply, and free from sin and death.

Two short verses, but a deep well of blessing.

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If you’re straddling the fence about memorizing, may I nudge you over to this side? It’s not too late to join us on Romans 8!