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"We are debtors..."

Text: Romans 8:12

INDEBTED TO THE LORD

How should we feel as we have a deeper understanding of our faith in the Lord Jesus Christ? The Apostle Paul has this to advise us.

“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.”
Romans 8:12-13

1. “Therefore”

a) Paul was an apostle who used reason again and again to formulate his theological conclusions.

b) The word “therefore” is to be understood as an inferential particle.

2. “Brethren, we are debtors- not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh”

a) Paul identified himself with his readers. Hence the use of the word “brethren”.

b) “We are debtors”

i) But not debtors to the flesh.

ii) We owe nothing to the flesh at all.

c) “To live according to the flesh”

i) This is unthinkable to the Apostle Paul.

ii) He who has been redeemed cannot live according to the flesh.

iii) It goes against all reason.

3. “For if you live according to the flesh you will die”

a) This has been stated before.

b) This is written to confirm the solemn reality.

4. “But if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body”

a) The Spirit’s help must be sought.

b) His power can help us put to death the deeds of the body.

c) We do not need to live weak and unfruitful lives.

5. “You will live”

a) This is a glorious hope.

b) The Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead can help us truly live.