INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. A Perplexing Position
2. A Pitiful Plight
3. A Perfect Provision
Remarks.
1. In our lesson today we are going to be discussing the theme: “A Spiritual Dilemma.” This will be one of our “Expository Sermons.” We will read the text, explain the text; and apply the text to obtain an understanding. I can fully agree and confess; I too have been in a Spiritual Dilemma; oft-times in my own life, as a Minister and Christian, in the church of the Lord. The word “dilemma” implies a situation presenting an undesirable or unpleasant choice. If each person in this audience would honestly assess their own walk of faith; each would confess, their own “spiritual dilemma.” Some here will find themselves faced with undesirable choices in life.
2. First, we will consider a “Perplexing Position.” Here the apostle lays out his real trial; which kept him in a perplexing position. Paul wrote: “When I determined to do good; I find myself guilty of performing that which is evil!” When I promised not to do evil; it is that which I perform. I find in my members and mind; a war that keeps me in this endless struggle. Is there hope that I can secure doing that which is right; which I have promise, rather than committing evil, that which I do not desire?
3. Second, we will discuss a “Pitiful Plight.” Paul here outlines his pitiful plight. This is our problem also; as we face our struggles with sin, as Paul attempts to do in these verses. We must understand that he describes his position before he was showered with the “grace of God.” He like all of us have, “put off the old man” (the practice of sin); and “put on the new man” (that permits us to walk in the Spirit). Let’s be clear. The walk of faith is not absent of temptation or even sin. What it does promise is that though we might fail; the condemnation for such sin has also been covered, by the blood of Christ. As long as we: “Walk in the light, as He is in the light; having fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son, continually cleanseth us from our sins,” 1 John 1:7-9.
4. Lastly, we will investigate a “Perfect Provision.” Paul now reminds us; of the solution for his struggle, in his walk of faith. Christ is now shown as the only solution to a “perplexing problem” and a “pitiful plight.” He wrote: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit,” Romans 8:1. He does not suggest that this it is without our efforts; to live a faithful and pleasing life before God. This is possible because: “God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, to condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are (living) in the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are (living) in the Spirit (do mind) the things of the Spirit,” Romans 8:3-4. With this brief introduction, let’s consider our first point in this lesson.
BODY OF LESSON
I A PERPLEXING POSITION
A. The law is good. Paul wrote: “Wherefore the law is holy... commandments holy, and just, and good... For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. For that which I do I allow not: for what I would that do I not; but what I hate, that do I,” Romans 7:12-15. 1People’s New Testament, Romans 7.
1. For we know that the law is spiritual. Paul now set forth to show that law is holy; but, he is sinful, carnal, thus, worthy of death. The law is "spiritual," that is, it is divine and perfectly adapts to our “spiritual nature.” Consider:
a. While there were "carnal ordinances," about the law; its essential principles were spiritual, righteous and holy. Reference: 1 People’s New Testament.
b. It was designed to provide, those that kept it, “eternal life,” Matthew 19:16-24.
c. Jesus and the rich young ruler’s discourse, when he asked: “What good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? Jesus said: “If thou will enter into life, keep the commandments.” He replied: “All these things have I done from my youth up: what lack I yet?” Jesus said: “If thou wilt be perfect... sell all thou hast... and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me... But when the young man heard... he went away sorrowful... he had great possessions.”
2. The word “perplex” is not in the text; the idea however, is clearly illustrated. Perplex, in Gr., is diaporeo, i.e., at a lost for a way; for a solution or a means of correction. Reference: 2, 3, W. E. Vine, p. 489; p. 177.
a. His cry: “Is there a solution for this perplexing position?” Is there any hope from this continual “spiritual dilemma?”
b. Paul will conclude with the only answer for this problem later, in this text. And our hope and help can only be found in Christ!
c. Notice: “We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body,” 2 Corinthians 4:8.
3. I am carnal. Paul describes his condition while he was under the law. The law is spiritual; but Paul calls himself carnal; and therefore, there was a conflict between these two (the law and his weakness to keep it). He continually failed to keep its commandments without offense. This was the situation for all Israel; and all mankind under any law.
4. Sold under sin. Hence, Paul, like others were in a state of slavery to sin. Paul here uses the present tense, to make this condition more vivid; he describes his condition before he became a Christian: “A follower of Christ,” Acts 26:28.
5. He at this present time had been called and saved by Christ, through grace: “But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb, and called me by His grace,” Galatians 1:13-15; Galatians 2:20.
6. Illustrate: By grace ye are saved, Ephesians 2:5; Ephesians 2:8-9.
B. If then I do that which I would (desire) not. He further wrote: “If then I (unwillingly commit to) do that which I would (desire) not, I consent (agree) that the law is good. Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me,” Romans 7:16-17. 1People’s New Testament, Romans 7.
1. If then I do. Rather, "but if I do." He wrote: “If I sin, against my purpose and will, I am condemned as a sinner; and, thus acknowledge that the law is just and good, which I continually disobeyed; falling short in keeping all its mandates.” Notice:
a. First, “As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one,” Romans 3:10. Surely, none of us can so claim of their lives.
b. Further, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God,” Romans 3:23.
c. Next, “If thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand?” See Psalms 130:3. Also: “They are all gone aside, they are all together become filthy: there is none that doeth good, no, not one,” Psalms 14:3.
d. Finally, “For there is not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not,” Ecclesiastes 7:20. Also, “Who can say, I have made my heart clean, I am pure from my sins?” See Proverbs 20:9.
2. It is no more I. Paul continues: “It is no more I, a freeman who sins; but, a bond-servant to sin and disobedience,” Romans 7:15. I am a debtor to unrighteousness; and it has made him, a slave to the consequences of sin and death.
a. And, hence it was sin that reigns over him and us; as the instrument of unrighteousness.
b. He describes his sinful state as one of bondage. Why is it that a man does what he "would not?" How is it we do that which we promise not to do any longer?
c. He does it because he was under the “bondage of sin.” Sin has brought him into its captivity and bondage of “all unrighteousness.”
3. Jesus reminded the Jewish leaders; those that believed on Him, of their need to be “freed from the bondage of sin.” Notice:
a. First, Jesus discussed their need to continue in His word to be His disciples; to know the truth; and that the truth could make them, “free from their sin.”
b. Next, the Jewish leaders: “Answered him, we be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, ye shall be made free?”
c. Finally, Jesus answered: “Verily, Verily, I say unto you whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. And the servant abideth not in the house forever: but the Son he abideth ever... If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed,” John 8:33-36.
d. Conclusion. Paul in this letter earlier addressed this spiritual bondage. He wrote: “Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness,” Romans 6:16-18.
C. For I know that in me. Continuing he wrote: “For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh, under this system of law) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not,” Romans 7:18. I desire to do good; but to perform such; I am unable to do in my current condition in the flesh, and under the law sin and death. Consider:
1. For I know that in me, that is, in my flesh. In my degenerated state; under the law, in my human nature; there in this state, dwelt no good thing that magnified the goodness of God. The tendency of my nature and behavior then; was, to do evil, and to do it continually. Remember, Noah and the time of the flood.
a. Illustrate: The nature of man before the flood, Genesis 6.
b. We will discuss more on this nature later in the lesson.
2. This kind of behavior was in continual conflicts with his will and conscience; that is described later; as being in the Spirit; and walking in the will of God.
3. To will is present with me. Who has not had the same experience? How often we resolve to do better, and break out resolves as soon as temptation comes!
4. Why as saints, do we still do evil and sin? Have we not put away the “old man and his deeds?” We will look at that in the next point. But for now, we will try to answer these questions:
a. Why are we often tempted? James wrote: “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death,” James 1:12-15.
b. Do we have a means of escape? Paul wrote: “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that (which) ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it,” 1 Corinthians 10:13.
c. Do we have help in our temptations? Is there help for the struggling saints during his/her time of trials or troubles? Consider:
1) Pray for help and deliverance. Jesus’ model Prayer: “Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil,” Matthew 6:9-13. This should be our prayer every day.
2) Come to His throne: “For we have not a high priest which cannot be touched with the feelings of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted likes as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace; that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need,” Hebrews 4:15-16.
3) The temptation of Jesus, Matthew 4:1-10. The angel’s help: “Then the devil leaveth him, and behold, angels came and ministered unto him,” Matthew 4:11.
4) The temptation of Joseph and his example to “flee from fornication,” Genesis 39:7-23; 1 Corinthians 6:18. Notice:
a) The temptations of Potiphar’s wife: “She cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, lie with me: and he left his garment in her hand, and fled forth,” Genesis 39:12. Illustrate: Potiphar’s wife: “Lie with me, or I will lie on you!”
b) Joseph’s strength and courage during his trial; was no more than ours today.
c) As Joseph took God’s “way of escape” to flee fornication; so must we, when we are tempted with this type of sin of the flesh.
d) He did; we must, and we can! If we like him rely upon the help of God.
D. A perplexing position: “For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do,” Romans 7:19. Again, let me remind us all, that Paul is addressing his condition under the law, before being called: “by grace and his apostleship to the faith among all nations,” Romans 1:5; Titus 1:1. Notice:
1. The good that I would I do not. This verse proves the statement of the last one, Romans 7:18. It is the strongest expression of his sinfulness yet made by the apostle Paul.
2. What could better demonstrate the bondage to sin? What is it Saul was dealing with here, occurred before his call and conversion to Christ? To try and come to an understanding; we might find an answer to Paul’s perplexing position. To understand this we must first, notice the words of Jesus.
3. Jesus’ prediction of religious persecution. Speaking to His disciples: “These things have I spoken unto you, that ye shall not be offended. They shall put you out of the synagogues: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service,” John 16:1-2. Here the Lord outlines their evil:
a. They (religious leaders), “shall put you out of the synagogue,” Acts 5:41-42.
b. They, “shall desire to persecute and kill you,” Matthew 24:9; Acts 4:13-20.
c. They, “shall believe that they doeth God service (will),” Acts 5:34-40.
d. They were men of misguided religious values. Men like Saul of Tarsus!
4. Paul’s struggle against the church. Paul’s persecution of the church was done in good conscience; in his attempt to do the will of God. Only to find out later, his work was in conflict to the will of God. Notice Paul’s admissions:
a. First, he speaks of his own conscience: “And Paul, earnestly beholding the council, said, Men and brethren, I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day,” Acts 23:1.
1) Paul lived in all good conscience under the law, Philippians 3:5-6.
2) He was taught according to the perfect law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God, as all his own countrymen, Acts 22:3.
3) He so witnessed before King Agrippa: “I verily thought with myself, that I ought to do many things contrary to the name of Jesus of Nazareth,” Acts 26:9. He sought in all good conscience to destroy this “sect of the Nazarene.”
b. Further, he described his persecutions of the church: “And Saul was consenting unto his death (Stephens). And at that time there was a great persecution against the church which was at Jerusalem; and they were all scattered abroad throughout the regions of Judaea and Samaria, except the apostles... As for Saul, he made havoc of the church, entering into every house, and haling men and women, committed them to prison,” Acts 8:1-3; Acts 22:4-5; Acts 26:10-11.
c. Next, he obtained help from the high priest: “And Saul, yet breathing out threatening and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men of women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem,” Acts 9:1-2.
d. Additionally, he explains his “conversion experience,” Acts 9:3-12. Luke records Saul’s conversion three times in the Book of Acts (above and in Acts 22; Acts 26). Paul’s call of Christ occurred while en-route to the City of Damascus:
1) Jesus said: “Saul, Saul, why, persecutest thou me?”
2) Paul’s answers: “Who art thou, Lord?”
3) Jesus’ reply: “I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.” It is hard for you to work contrary to my divine will.
4) Paul asks: “What wilt thou have me to do?”
5) The Lord’s instruction: “Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do.”
6) Paul’s “call by grace and the apostleship of Christ,” Acts 9:13-18; Romans 1:5.
e. Finally, he explains God’s will: “For ye have heard of my conversation in times past in the Jews religion, how... I persecuted the church of God ... And profited in the Jews’ religion ... in mine own nation, being ... zealous of the traditions of my fathers. But when it pleased God...To reveal his Son in me,” Galatians 1:13-16; 1 Timothy 1:12-15.
5. Conclusion: Here is my explanation if he is not discussing his struggle under the law. Paul could have been struggling with his former self, in his persecutions of the church of Christ. In my judgment is this: he was troubled by his attempts to destroy the saints and the kingdom of God. Consider:
a. Paul’s life work before his conversion was to live as a devout Jew; and to destroy any thing that was contrary to the “doctrine and commandments of the fathers,” Mark 7:6-9; Philippians 3:3-6.
1) This he had done: “With all good conscience before God,” Acts 23:1.
2) This he did with blind hatred for the “Sect of the Nazarene.”
3) This caused him to do many “contrary to the name of Jesus,” Acts 26:9.
b. Paul learned after his conversion and revelation of Christ; that he was wrong, in all his actions, before the God of heaven.
c. Paul thought he was doing the right things; but, learned that he was in error, in all his actions, against the church and Jesus of Nazareth. Notice his words:
1) The good I desired to do (that is, to destroy this religious movement).
2) I did not (glorify God), though I did these things in all good conscience.
3) But rather, what I did do; was to:
a) Opposed the God of my fathers; and thwarted His divine will.
b) That was, to save Israel and the entire Gentile world, from their sin.
4) This I believed, in earnest I was doing in “service to God.”
d. Paul wrote: “Afterwards I came into the regions of Syria and Cilicia; and was unknown by face unto the churches of Judea which were in Christ: But they had heard only, that he which persecuted us in times past; now preacheth the faith which he once destroyed. And they glorified God in me,” Galatians 1:21-24.
e. Summary: This I believe was Paul’s inner struggle of faith; beginning after his conversion, and learning that Jesus was Messiah: and his appointment, as an apostle of Christ. Therefore, his work of doing good and in concert with heaven; was in fact evil and destructive to the will of God, whom he sought to serve. Jesus’ words to his apostles were fulfilled: “They shall put you out of the synagogue: yea, the time cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God service,” John 16:2.
E. Now if I do that I would not. He concludes: “Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me,” Romans 7:20. But if what I would not, that I do. Notice:
1. This experience is sustained in verse 17; and shows that sin had captured our human nature, and then ruled over it. It appears that we in this case, have no control over our flesh; or the sin we commit? This however, is not the truth.
2. Sin at times has controls over our flesh; though, we would rather do that which is good; and righteousness. The Holy Spirit before our conversion; was not directing our actions to obey the “fruits of righteousness” in service to God.
3. We might have willed to do one thing; but, did another; merely because of the weakness of the flesh. Our subjection at that time was not to do the work of God. Jesus said: “The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak,” Matthew 26:41.
4. This perplexing position defined us also at one time. We too like Paul, did that which we desire not to do. This is due to our weakness in the flesh. It caused us to serve unrighteousness; rather than the will of God. We all have said at some time in our walk of faith:
a. I desire to be more faithful; but, I find myself being unfaithful to the Lord and to the faith; I now place my hope!
b. I will to give more to the church; but, I do not because, I am overwhelmed by debt and my uncontrollable spending habits.
c. I promise to attend the services more regularly, that I might be strengthened: “in the inner man”; however, I make excuses (i.e., my job, sickness, scheduling, weather etc.), hinders my attendance.
d. I promise God I will no longer yield to my lusts and secret sins; yet, when I’m tempted, I yield to these emotions, without prayer or trusting in the Lord’s help during these trials.
e. I promise God I will be faithful to my spouse, and, not yield to the sins of the flesh; but, I fail and sin hurting God, and my spouse, in my moments of passion.
f. I ask God for a loving mate, that I might love and share my life and worldly possessions; but, once given I do not: that which I have promised, because of my own selfishness to my companion and God.
5. Summary: All of these behaviors should have characterized our unconverted, degenerated state; not that of our present condition, “in Christ.” Is there any hope for anyone who lives with such a struggle of life? Let’s consider our next point in this lesson. Maybe there we might find an answer!
II A PITIFUL PLIGHT
A. I find then a law. Paul begins: “I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me,” Romans 7:21. It is then the law of our degenerate state that warreth against us; even if we desire to do well, and purpose to be better; however, evil will always be present, and subvert each intention of ours to do well. As I promised, let’s notice:
1. First, Moses wrote regarding man’s conditions before the flood: “And God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually,” Genesis 6:5.
2. Further, Solomon wrote: “This is an evil among all things that are done under the sun, that there is one event unto all: yea, also the heart of the sons of men is full of evil, and madness is in their heart while they live, and after that they go to the dead,” Ecclesiastes 9:3.
3. Finally, Jeremiah wrote: “The heart is deceitful above all things, desperately wicked: who can know it?” See Jeremiah 17:9. Also, “And ye have done worse than your fathers; for, behold, ye walk every one after the imagination of his evil heart, that they may not hearken unto me,” Jeremiah 16:12.
B. For I delight in the law of God. Paul’s pitiful plight: “For I delight in the law of God after then inward man,” Romans 7:22. What is the law of God – the law that is the “inward man?” Paul continues:
1. For I delight in the law of God. The “inward man,” is the better of the natural man, our spiritual being; that approves and delights in the law of God. He speaks not only regarding the Law of Moses; but as well, the law of faith, that results in the righteousness of God through grace.
a. This is the part of our inner being that “wills to do right,” that is spoken of in, Romans 7:21. But, Paul found in himself, evil which sought to destroy this good.
b. Paul wrote: “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good,” Romans 12:21. Christians must rise above evil; resisting it, and return good in its place.
c. We cannot allow those that treat us unkindly, to induce us to respond in the same manner; but, to overcome evil by rendering unto them good.
d. This behavior wrote Paul, will: “Heap coals of fire upon their heads,” Romans 12:20. The saint has charge over his actions; if they are walking in the Spirit.
2. The outward man: “For which cause, we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet our inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal,” 2 Corinthians 4:16-18.
3. We have “put off the old man, and have put on the new man.” Notice Paul:
a. First, to the Ephesians: “That ye put off concerning the form conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts: and that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Wherefore putting away lying, (and) speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another... Let not the sun go down upon your wrath,” Ephesians 4:20-32. Put away lying and all evil work; if ye have put on the new man; created in righteousness and true holiness!
b. Further, to the Colossians: “But now ye also put off all these... Lie not one to another, seeing ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is made in the image of him that created him,” Colossians 3:8-14.
c. Finally, Peter to the saints: “But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quite spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price,” 1 Peter 3:4.
d. Conclusion: The, “old man and his deeds” has been destroyed. Christ has created the “new man renewed in knowledge after the image of Christ”; that we might walk in the Spirit; as the “sons of God,” Romans 8:9; Romans 8:14.
C. But I see another law. He continued: “But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members,” Romans 7:23. Notice:
1. But I see another law in my members. One law of our being is the approval of righteousness; another is the inclination of the flesh to do evil.
2. This law wars against the law of the mind, the conscience and will, and brings it into captivity. It prevails. Hence, the unregenerate man is held captive.
3. There is a struggle in the natural of man; a war against the mind or the “inward man,” which warreth against the flesh, which results in the captivity of the untransformed soul, to the bondage of the law of sin and death.
4. Conclusion: If we have indeed “put off the old man,” and have “put on the new man”; we are no longer walking in the deeds of the flesh; but in the law of the Spirit and grace, Romans 6:14. We are now the “children of God”; His “Workmanship (master piece), created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them,” Ephesians 2:10.
D. Pitiful plight: “O wretched man that I am! Who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” Romans 7:24. This is the plight of the unreformed soul. Notice:
1. Wretched because he has no power in himself of deliverance. Who shall deliver me from this body of death? He is a captive, a slave to the body, and its members, which are under the complete control of sin. Hence, he is a helpless slave to sin; and as such, is under its condemnation and death.
2. The body, the seat of the fleshly desires, has become “a body of death,” since it is controlled by sin. Who shall deliver us from its power?
3. Paul describes the bondage of the natural man to the will of the flesh; which is a slave to sin and condemned to death. He now closes his discussion of the “natural man” with a cry for help and deliverance from this “pitiful plight.”
E. I thank God. Paul wrote: “I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin,” Romans 7:25. I thank God, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
1. Through him deliverance has comes. “So then with the mind I delight in the law of God,” Romans 7:25. This is therefore: “The law of God after the inward man” which is the “new man,” Romans 7:22; Ephesians 4:23-24.
2. However, I myself, that is, by myself, without Christ; in the flesh, was devoted to the practice of sin and unrighteousness. This was Paul’s struggles; while in the captivity of sin, before his call and delivery from the life of “the old man and his deeds,” Ephesians 4:20-22. Just as it was in each of us!
3. Hence the failure of the law to deliver, he found in Christ; through the power of the gospel of Christ, to be delivered from the “law of sin and death.” Notice:
a. Christ is our hope: “Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he (Christ) also himself took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death ...the devil: and delivered them who through fear of death were... in lifetime subject to bondage,” Hebrews 2:14-15.
b. If under the Law, under its curse: “For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse: for it is written, Cursed is every one that continueth not in all things which are written in the book of the law to do them,” Galatians 3:10.
c. The Christians can be confident: “That sin no longer has dominion over them, because they are no longer under the law, but under grace,” Romans 6:14.
d. The just shall live by faith: “But that no man is justified by the Law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, the just shall live by faith. And the law is not of faith: but, the man that doeth them shall live in them. Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through (the) faith,” Galatians 3:11-14. Notice man’s failure in keeping the law:
1) Paul’s preaching in the synagogue at Antioch in Pisidia, Acts 13:38-39.
2) Peter’s speech to the Jerusalem council, Acts 15:7-11.
e. Before faith came: “But before faith came we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after the faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster...Ye are all the children of God, by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you ... have been baptized into Christ ... have put on Christ,” Galatians 3:23-27.
f. Redeemed from the Law. Paul wrote: “But when the fulness of time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law. To redeem them that was under the law; that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit into our hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant: but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ,” Galatians 4:4-7; Romans 8:16-17.
4. Paul’s statement to the Galatians summarized this truth, he wrote: "Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh; for the lust of the flesh fights against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh, for these are contrary the one to the other; that ye may not do the things that ye would. But if ye are led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law," Galatians 5:16-18.
5. John wrote: “If we say we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin,” 1 John 1:6-7.
6. Christ then is our hope. Our walk of faith, continually cleanseth us from our sins (our failures); even though we have been forgiven of all past sins, we struggle against the sins of the flesh. Paul now tells us how Christ; has provided for us a “perfect provision” to escape from these struggles, and live before God and men with a “good conscience.” Let’s now consider our last point. For it is in Christ, we will find our HOPE!
III A PERFECT PROVISION
A. There is therefore now. Paul begins now in Romans chapter 8, his discussion of “a perfect provision” for this “pitiful plight.” He wrote: “There is therefore NOW NO CONDEMNATION to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit,” Romans 8:1. Notice:
1. First, there is therefore. The "therefore" in this text, points to the argument that in Christ we are delivered from “sin and condemnation of the law.” This was a promise of Christ unto the Jews which followed Him during His personal ministry, John 8:31-32. Jesus promised “that if we continue in His word:”
a. We would be his disciples indeed.
b. We would know the truth.
c. We would be made free from sin.
d. God’s perfect provision for our conflict between doing what is right; but, finding our human spirit too weak at times to be able to live righteously in God’s sight; can be found in Christ and in His work of redemption in our lives.
e. Paul speaks of himself: “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me. I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness came by the law, then Christ is dead in vain,” Galatians 2:20-21; Galatians 1:4. Notice:
1) We live in the flesh (our human bodies).
2) But walk in the Spirit (and not in the flesh).
2. Further, no condemnation to those in Christ Jesus. Those who have died in Christ are also alive in Him, Romans 6:1-4. We all in Him have satisfied the righteousness of the law, and hence are not long under the condemnation of the Law; “but have been made free from the law of sin and death,” Romans 8:2.
3. Next, He, the sinless One: “Christ was made sin for us;” so we, the forgiven ones, could be “made the righteousness of God in Him,” 2 Corinthians 5:21. Why is this so? It is so because: “Christ is the end of the Law for righteousness to everyone that believeth,” Romans 10:1-4. Notice:
a. First, Jesus is the “perfection and consummation of the law,” for righteousness. He came not to destroy the Law and the Prophet, but to: “Fulfill (complete) the righteousness of God, promised in them,” Matthew 5:17-18.
b. Further, through Him all Israel can be justified. The prophet Isaiah’s prediction of Christ was to “justify all men, both Jew and Gentiles through faith.”
1) Isaiah wrote: “In the Lord shall all the seed of Israel be justified (righteous), and shall glory,” Isaiah 45:25.
2) Paul wrote: “For he is not a Jew which is one outwardly; neither is that circumcision which is outward in the flesh: But he is a Jew (Israel), which is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter; whose praise is not of men, but of God,” Romans 2:28-29; Galatians 6:14.
3) Paul also penned: “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God,” Romans 5:1-2.
c. Paul further inscribed: “But that no man is justified by the law in the sight of God, it is evident: for, the just shall live by faith,” Galatians 3:11. To this truth, David also agreed: “For in thy (God’s) sight shall no man living be justified,” Psalms 143:2. Let’s consider these conclusions:
1) Conclusion 1: “But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe,” Galatians 3:22. This includes both Jew and Gentile! Both are under sin and require a means of justification (to become just and righteous) before God.
2) Conclusion 2: “Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law... Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith,” Romans 3:28-30. This includes both Jew and Gentile! Both shall be “justified by faith in Jesus Christ,” Romans 1:16-17.
3) Conclusion 3: “For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone that believeth (Jew and Gentile),” Romans 10:4; Romans 8:3-4. Christ is the righteousness of God; that justifies all believers “by grace through the faith.”
4. Additionally, this blessed condition depends upon our vital union with Christ. That is, having been: “Baptized into Christ,” Galatians 3:26-27.
5. Finally, we now walk in Him, and no longer after the flesh, but after the Spirit, Romans 8:1. Thus, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah and the promise of Christ; justification has come by, “faith in Jesus Christ; and not through the law.”
B. For the Law of the Spirit. Note: “For the Law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made us free from the law of sin and death,” Romans 8:2. Notice:
1. First, the Spirit of life is the Holy Spirit. The whole phrase is equivalent to the Gospel, which has been given to men by the revelation of the Holy Spirit.
2. Second, the Spirit has quickened us to a new life, and as we have died to the law and to sin; we have been made free from them. Wesley says, that the meaning here is that the: “Gospel has freed us from the Mosaic law.” 1People’s New Testament, Romans 8.
3. Third, that the law of the Spirit of life describes the Gospel as shown in Romans 8:3; clearly explains the blessed hope in Romans 8:1-2.
a. There is, “therefore now no condemnation” to them which are in Christ Jesus.
b. Those that, “walk not after the flesh, but walk after the Spirit.”
c. For the law of the, “Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made us free.”
d. From the law of sin and death, John 8:31-32; John 8:36; Romans 6:17-18.
C. For what the law could not do. He further wrote: “For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, (in order to) condemn sin in the flesh,” Romans 8:3. That is:
1. First, for what the law could not do. Because of the weakness of our human natures; we are often overcome by the tendency of the flesh, the carnal nature, and the evils of sin, which we were once so grossly engaged.
a. The law “made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did, by which we draw night unto God,” Hebrews 7:19.
b. For if that first covenant... faultless, “then should no place have been sought for the second. For finding fault with them (not it), he saith, Behold the days come, saith the Lord, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Judah,” Hebrews 8:7-8; Hebrews 8:13; Hebrews 9:14-17.
c. The fault was in the keepers of the law; and not the Law itself.
2. Further, God helped us to win our war against sin, by sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh; to redeem all who were, and now are under its curse.
3. Next, Christ came in the form of human flesh. He took on the likeness of sinful flesh. He became sin for us; yet: “He committed no sin,” 1 Peter 2:21-24.
4. Finally, He was in all points: “Tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need,” Hebrews 4:15-16.
Paul wrote that Christ came:
a. For sin. That is to take away the sins of the world, John 1:29; 1 Peter 1:18-21.
b. To condemned sin in the flesh. To “condemn” means to sentence; and, then put one to death. The law condemns; but, it could not justify. It took Jesus!
1) By His spotless life (who did not commit sin in the flesh).
2) By His death and our life in Him; now have all our sins forgiven.
3) By our union with His death and resurrected life.
c. By being in Christ, we are now permitted to walk:
1) With a “new spirit and in a new life,”2 Corinthians 5:17.
2) No longer under the “power of sin in our bodies.”
3) In the “likeness of His resurrection,” Romans 6:4-5.
d. Knowing this, “that our old man is crucified with Him:”
1) That the “body of sin might be destroyed.”
2) That henceforth “we should not serve (practice) sin.”
3) For he “that is dead is freed from sin,” Romans 6:6-7.
D. That the righteousness of the law. Paul adds: “That the righteousness of the law (that was promised) might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit,” Romans 8:4. Notice:
1. That the righteousness of the law. The righteous of the law, and its entire demands, have been satisfied by the righteousness of Christ; and, our obedience to the gospel, and the grace of God, Acts 20:24; Romans 6:17-18.
2. By the Gospel the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts through the Holy Spirit, Romans 5:5.
3. Hence, we comply with its righteous demands, when we “walk, no longer after the flesh, but after the Spirit,” Romans 8:4.
4. To walk after the flesh is to obey the dictates of the flesh; to walk after the Spirit is to obey the dictates of the Spirit of God. The Spirit dwells in the believers to help them in their walk of faith; by the "Word of God,” and the Holy Spirit’s “convictions in our hearts,” as He strengthens us in our walk.
E. For they that are after the flesh. Finally: “For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit (do mine) the things of the Spirit,” Romans 8:5.
1. They that are after the flesh. The unconverted, are those still in a state of a carnal mind and nature. These are put in contrast with the converted, believers, those in Christ who NOW walk after the Spirit. These classes are easily distinguished.
a. The canal minded obeys the dictates of the flesh; the believers, obeys the dictates of the Spirit.
b. The things that are of the Spirit are not revealed to us by human wisdom; but by the words of the Spirit, through the Holy Scriptures.
c. The indwelling Spirit helps the “new man” that is in Christ, to keep His word; and to walk in the Spirit through His direction.
2. Carnally minded: “For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace,” Romans 8:6.
a. To be carnally minded is to be under the dominion of the fleshly impulses of the body; and the sentence of death. This is sure proof that one is spiritually dead and under condemnation. Now the works of the flesh are outlined in, Galatians 5:19-21. Those that commit such shall not “inherit the kingdom of God,” 1 Corinthians 6:9-11.
b. To be spiritually minded is to walk in obedience to the Spirit of Christ. This gives life to the soul, maintains a vital union with Christ, and brings peace, or conscious enjoyment of the grace of God.
3. Carnal mind is enmity: “Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be,” Romans 8:7.
a. The carnal mind is opposed to God's law, and demand for a righteous life. Hence, since it fights against God, and is under His condemnation.
b. Paul does not declare that it is impossible for the wicked man to become good; but that it cannot be done while he retains a carnal mind and walk in the flesh. Is it possible for a Christians to again become “carnal minded?” See 1 Corinthians 3:3-4.
c. He must repent and be converted, Acts 3:19.
1) He does so, if an unbeliever: “By hearing, believing and obeying the gospel of Christ,” Acts 18:8.
2) He does so, if a believer: “By confessing his fault and requesting prayers from the saints,” James 5:16; 1 John 1:8-10.
4. So then they: “So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ he is none of His,” Romans 8:8-9.
a. So then. The result naturally follows that a "carnally-minded man," one "in the flesh" and under its dominion, "cannot please God." For without “a submissive and obedient faith, it is impossible for him to be pleasing to God,” Hebrews 11:6. This is impossible while he continues to mind or obey the things of the flesh.
b. But ye are not in the flesh, Paul declares. It has just been shown that he who is under the dominion of his fleshly passions is at war with God.
1) He cannot please God, and is spiritually dead. But the Christian is NOW under the influence of the Spirit, if the Spirit of God dwells in him.
2) He dwells in us, as new creatures, we do NOW "mind the things of the Spirit."
c. Now if any man has not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His. The proof that we have this indwelling Spirit of Christ is:
1) That we “mind the things of the Spirit,” Romans 8:5.
2) Bear the “fruit of the Spirit,” Galatians 5:22-23.
3) Consider, that the Spirit is spoken of in this verse both as the Spirit of God, and the Spirit of Christ, Romans 8:9. Paul here affirms that the “Spirit of Christ”; is in fact, the “Spirit of God.”
5. But if Christ be in us; He is in us through the Holy Spirit. Notice, that the indwelling of the Spirit of God; or having the Spirit of Christ, is proof that we are the “the sons” or the “children of God,” Romans 8:14-16. Christ in us; is positive proof, that we are NOW walking and living in the Spirit. Because the Spirit now dwelleth in us:
a. The body is dead to sin. Our physical bodies shall die because of sin. Physical death came into the world through Adam’s sin and transgressions. But the Spirit giveth life. Our spirit has been made alive by our union with Christ. We are NOW partakers of the righteousness of Christ; because, we have died to the practice of sin and unrighteousness.
b. But if the Spirit of Him, NOW in us. This same Holy Spirit is granted unto us, as God’s pledge; that He will raise us up, even as He raised Christ from the dead, Ephesians 1:11-14.
1) Our physical bodies are NOW sealed by God until the great day of redemption, Ephesians 4:30.
2) Christ’s empty tomb is our assurance; that we too, shall be raised, John 20:3-10.
3) We in whom the Spirit of Christ dwelleth shall be raised; in the same fashion with a glorious body, just as our Lord Jesus Christ. Notice:
a) Paul wrote: “For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto his glorious body, according to the working whereby he is able even to subdue all things unto himself,” Philippians 3:20-21.
b) Paul penned: “When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory,” Colossians 3:4; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18.
c) John wrote: “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in Him purifieth himself, even as he is pure,” 1 John 3:2-3
d) David wrote: “As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness,” Psalms 17:15. See also Job 14:12.
e) Daniel wrote: “And many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, and some to shame and everlasting punishment,” Daniel 12:2. There shall be a resurrection of the good and bad; the just and the unjust, John 5:25-29; Acts 24:15.
6. The Spirit shall also quicken our mortal bodies. Though the body is doomed to death, "because of sin," it shall be "quickened" made alive, by Christ at His second coming, 1 Corinthians 15:20-26.
a. This promise is to all in whom God's Holy Spirit NOW dwelleth in them that are the “sons of God,” Romans 8:11; Galatians 4:4-7.
b. Even our mortal bodies shall be raised, not in corruption, but in incorruption, 1 Corinthians 15:42-44. Paul affirms that:
1) This mortal shall put on immortality.
2) This corruption shall put on incorruption.
3) This earthly shall put on the heavenly.
4) This natural body shall put on the spiritual body.
c. Conclusion: All this will occur when Christ returns from heaven, to raise the saints from the dead. The Lord will, “descend from heaven with a shout; with the voice of an archangel, with the trump of God; and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore, comfort one another with these words,” 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18. For a more complete explanation of these wonderful promises; review our lesson on: “Christian Certainties.” As I conclude, let’s consider what we have discussed....
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. A Perplexing Position
2. A Pitiful Plight
3. A Perfect Provision
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we considered a “Perplexing Position.” He the apostle lays out his real trial; which kept him in a perplexing position. That is, when I determined to do well; I find myself guilty of performing that which is evil! When I promised not to do evil; it is that which I perform. We noted in our members and mind; a war that keeps us in this endless struggle.
2. Second, we discussed a “Pitiful Plight.” Paul here outlined his pitiful plight. This was our problem also; if we face our struggles with sin, as Paul attempts to do in these verses. We now understand that he describes his position before he was showered with the “grace of God.” He like all of us have “put off the old man” (the practice of sin); and “put on the new man” (that permit us to our walk in the Spirit). Let’s be clear. The walk of faith is not absent of temptations or sins. We found hope for continual forgiveness of sin: “As we walk in the light, as He is in the light; having fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son, continually cleanseth us from our sins,” 1 John 1:7-9.
3. Lastly, we investigated a “Perfect Provision.” Paul, reminded himself and us; of the solution for this struggle, in our walk of faith. Christ is our solution to his “perplexing problem” and “pitiful plight.” He wrote: “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit,” Romans 8:1. He did not suggest that this it is without our efforts; to live a faithful and pleasing life before God. This is now possible because: “God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are (living) after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are (living) after the Spirit (do mind) the Spirit and the things of the Spirit,” Romans 8:3-4.
C. Invitation. Present the plan of salvation, H. B. R. C. B.
D. Exhortation.
E. Motivation.
References:
1The People’s New Testament, with Explanatory Notes, by B.W. Johnson, Gospel Light Publishing Company, Delight, AR, 1891; Romans, Chapter 7 and 8.
2W. E. Vine, New Testament Greek Grammar and Dictionary, W.E. Vine, M.A., Thomas Nelson, 2012, p. 489.
3Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words; Edited by F.F. Bruce, Fleming H. Revell Company, Old Tappen, New Jersey, 1981, p. 177.
