Condemnation to Liberation: Living in the Spirit
Romans 8:1-3

I. CONDEMNATION CLEARED: THE ASSURANCE OF OUR POSITION
A. No Condemnation
1. Present Assurance: “There is therefore now no condemnation” (Romans 8:1a) emphasizes our current state of grace.
2. Meaning of “In Christ”: To be “in Christ Jesus” signifies a new identity marked by acceptance and freedom from guilt.
B. The Condition of Walking
1. Walking Not in the Flesh: The phrase “who walk not after the flesh” (Romans 8:1b) calls us to intentional, Spirit-led living.

II. LIBERATION REVEALED: THE POWER OF THE SPIRIT
A. The Law of the Spirit
1. Freedom from Sin’s Grip: “The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free” (Romans 8:2) indicates that the Holy Spirit brings true liberty.
2. Contrast of Laws:
a. Law of Sin and Death: Reflects the old nature that leads to spiritual bondage.
b. New Law of the Spirit: Emphasizes life, empowerment, and righteousness.
B. Walking in That Freedom
1. Divine Empowerment: Believers are not alone; the Holy Spirit equips us to resist sin and pursue holiness.

III. RIGHTEOUSNESS REALIZED: FULFILLING GOD’S DESIGN
A. The Weakness of the Law
1. Limitations of Human Effort: “For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh” (Romans 8:3a) shows that human efforts failed to achieve righteousness.
B. The Purpose of Righteousness
1. Conquering Sin: “Condemned sin in the flesh” highlights Christ’s victory over sin (Romans 8:3).