Christians are not those who live by the sinful nature (or “flesh”) and therefore die (v.13). We have been made alive (v.10), and we will one day have renewed bodies (v.11); so in keeping with this truth, for now, we put to death the sinful nature, in the power of the Spirit. “Put to death” means a ruthless, full-hearted resistance to sinful practice—it means to declare war on attitudes and behaviors that are wrong. A Christian doesn’t play games with sin—they put it to death.
What do Christians have an obligation to do? (v.12)
"Thank you God, for such an amazing reality: The same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead lives in me! The very same Spirit who raised Christ gives me life! Help me, Lord, to put to death the deeds of the body, and to live according to the Spirit. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen."
We were adopted into God’s family as his children when we received his Spirit. What a wonderful relationship of sonship (with all its privileges) you and I now enjoy with God by his Spirit! The ability and confidence to approach God as Father. The security of ongoing forgiveness and unconditional love. To know that my performance doesn’t change my position in the family— but I want to work hard for him, because he’s my loving Father.
What is the distinction between the two “spirits” (two ways of thinking about and relating to God)? (v.15)
“Dear Abba Father, I thank you that I am your child, and that you have given me the Spirit of adoption. Thank you that I can come to you for help. God, I am struggling with ____. Please give me your strength and your guidance, and help me to trust you more and more as my loving Father as you guide me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.”
When man sinned, all of creation was subjected to God’s curse (Gen. 3:17). The effects of sin in disease, disaster and decay constantly remind us that all is not right with us or with the world. One day, groaning creation will be delivered into glorious creation at Christ’s return. But until the time of our release and redemption, we must endure, wait, and hope.