Conceptual Understanding
- How does Wright explain the concept of “the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus” in Romans 8:2? How does this “law” differ from the “law of sin and death,” and what are the implications for Christian living?
- What does Wright mean by “flesh” (sarx) in Romans 8:3-4? How does Christ’s incarnation address the problem of the flesh, and what does it mean for believers to be “in Christ”?
- In Romans 8:5-8, Paul contrasts those who “set their minds on the flesh” with those who “set their minds on the Spirit.” How does Wright interpret this contrast? What are the practical consequences of each mindset, and how can believers cultivate a “Spirit-minded” approach to life?
- Romans 8:12-17 speaks of believers as “heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ.” How does Wright explain this concept of inheritance? What does it mean for believers to share in Christ’s sufferings, and how does this relate to their future glory?
- Throughout Chapter 2, Wright emphasizes the crucial role of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers. How does the Spirit empower believers to overcome sin, live according to God’s will, and experience the fullness of life in Christ?
Growing In Intimacy with Jesus
1. In Romans 8:2, Wright highlights the “law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus.” How does this understanding of the Spirit’s work encourage you to surrender to Jesus’s Lordship and allow Him to lead you into a life of freedom and obedience?
2. Wright explains that Christ, by becoming incarnate “in the likeness of sinful flesh,” condemned sin in the flesh (Romans 8:3). How does this truth deepen your appreciation for Jesus’s sacrifice and His willingness to identify with your humanity in order to redeem you?
3. Romans 8:5-8 contrasts a mindset focused on the flesh with one focused on the Spirit. How can you practically apply this distinction in your daily life to cultivate a deeper intimacy with Jesus and live according to His Spirit?
4. Wright emphasizes that believers are “heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:17). How does this understanding of your identity as a child of God and co-heir with Christ shape your relationship with Him and your perspective on suffering and glory?
5. Reflecting on Romans 8:14-17, how does the Spirit’s role in enabling you to cry “Abba! Father!” foster a sense of intimacy and belonging in your relationship with God? How does this understanding of the Spirit’s work deepen your trust in God’s love and care for you as His child?
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Sharing
Jesus last words on Earth were to his disciples, can be found in Matthew Chap 28 when Jesus told his disciples, “Then Jesus approached and said to them, “All power in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
Jesus calls all of us to share in his redemptive mission here on Earth. I would ask you to share this Scripture reflection with your family, your friends and your acquaintances, and then share it with a couple of individuals that you may may not be comfortable sharing with, keeping in mind always the words of Jesus, And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age
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Author was assisted by AI in the drafting of this Post