RIGHTEOUS and REDIRECTED REGULATIONS PART 1

RIGHTEOUS and REDIRECTED REGULATIONS PART 1

There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:1–2

There are instances in our journey with the Lord when a single truth hits you so hard it blisters yet still bathes and beautifies your soul with blessings. Romans 8:1-2, is one of those truths.

Paul isn’t proposing a suggestion, a spiritual mood boost, or a motivational slogan. He is announcing a legal shift, a regime change, and a transfer of jurisdiction over your life.
 
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus,who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8: 1-2

These two verses declare that the believer lives under new regulations, governed by a new righteousness, and empowered by a new spirit. The old system has been overruled, the old charges have been dismissed, the old penalties have been paid in full, and the old patterns no longer have the authority they once claimed. CAN SOMEBODY SAY AMEN! This is not just good news, it’s governing news.

Our text points out that Paul begins with a courtroom declaration, “NO MORE CONDEMNATION!”   Notice, not less condemnation, delayed condemnation, or conditional condemnation, NO CONDEMNATION!

These are the words of righteousness, that is not earned but granted, not achieved but received. The believer stands in Christ, wrapped in His record, covered by His obedience, and shielded by His sacrifice. The gavel has already fallen, and the verdict is final.

But here’s the section that we often miss, a new verdict always leads to a new way of living. When the Judge declares you righteous, he also redirects the regulations that govern your life. You see, the regime has shifted from the law of sin and regulation to the law of the Spirit.

Paul contrasts two laws, not merely rules, but realities, powers and systems of authority. Let’s look first at the law of sin and death. This law is predictable because sin pulls, the flesh dominates, shame continues its cycle and death follows. It is a system that always ends in defeat. Even when you wanted to do right, the gravitational pull of the flesh dragged you back into patterns you hated. However there is a transcending power that tore us away from the formidable pull and moved us forward into a new rule or regulation and reality.

Join me next time to touch on and travel in some truth that’s transforms.

Not a sermon, just some thoughts.
FtGG