Romans 6 - 7

I find Romans 6 to be one the most powerful statements concerning the nature of our relationship to God now that we have Jesus.

Romans 6:4 is commonly recited during baptisms. Our life in Christ is an entirely new one. Its not just about forgiveness, its about a whole new life. Verse 5 explains it even further by telling us that as we join together in Jesus' sufferings we also get to join Him in conquering death.

v. 11 "Consider yourselves to be dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus."

The end of ch 6 uses slavery a number of times to describe the nature of our relationship to sin and eventually righteousness. Given this countries history of slavery our idea of slavery is a bit skewed. Here is a description of what Roman slavery was like (http://www.richeast.org/htwm/Greeks/Romans/slavery/slavery2.html).

While it is death we are owed for our sin, we are given the gift of grace.


Ch 7.

Our faithfulness to Him is what God desires. Pursuing both our sinful nature and God is adultery. Are you cheating on Him? When I was in high school I used to tell people I was a Christian. I even made up a church that I went to. The problem is that while I was talking good about church I had no place in my life for God. Going to camps, youth group. Sunday mornings, Sunday School and more are great way to be in community, but if that your whole relationship with God, you may need to evaluate your priorities. We are told in Romans that we cannot serve 2 masters. Who is your master? I know that early in my Christian life I could talk the Christian talk quite well. What I've learned is that God is very real, and my relationship with Him is one that requires commitment.

Paul then goes on to describe the nature of the laws God as given us. The way Paul explains the law is brilliant. Read through it as many times as it takes to follow whats being said. While Romans can be tough to follow at times, it is very rich in theology and the lessons you are given through will stick with you forever.


We'll do Ch's 8-9 Monday. Re-read 1-7 this weekend and see if there is anything new that stands out.