Articles
Two Life Styles Romans 8
Two Life Styles Romans 8
There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit” (KJV Rom. 8:1). The last part of that sentence was added later (you will see it is left out of almost every other translation), BUT it provides a good synopsis of the first part of this chapter. It outlines two different life styles. One can live after the Spirit or one can choose to live after the flesh.
Those living after the flesh set their mind according on the things of the flesh, refuse to submit to God’s law, are hostile to God, and cannot please God. Such a life style will bring death (spiritual and eternal). One does NOT have to continue in such life style for they CAN repent and turn to God. One however cannot BOTH walk by the flesh and be submitting to the God. One cannot walk according to the flesh and be pleasing to God.
The other life style is to walk according to the Spirit (4), setting the mind upon the things of the Spirit (5). In contrast to the flesh, these submit unto God and are pleasing unto God. Such a life style puts to death the deeds of the body (13). Earlier Paul had spoken of this as ‘crucifying the old man’ and considering ourselves dead TO sin (6:6, 11). Being thus led by the Spirit we are children of God (14).
While we are still subject to the mortality of the body and thus will die in the flesh, yet we are NOW alive unto God - alive in the Spirit. We have the promise of having this mortal body quickened at the resurrection and fashioned to live eternally in the presence of God. Those who walk according to the flesh will also die and be raised, but their resurrection will not be unto life with God but judgment and condemnation. Jesus said: “Do not marvel at this, for an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment” (John 5:28–29).
Where is your emphasis of life? What is your mind set upon? Be honest with yourself in this for your eternal destiny will be determined by such choice. It is as Moses told Israel: “I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore choose life, that you and your offspring may live” (Deut. 30:19).
Hugh DeLong
