Old and New

Dear class,

Today's readings are taken from Genesis 20-22 and Romans 8.

As mentioned, we shall take Romans 7 and 8 together.

Bro Robert Taylor wrote of these 2 chapters - "Romans 7 and 8 must be studied as an inseparable unit. Both chapters deal with what the governing or controlling factor is to be for the Christian. Romans 7 deals with it negatively and tells what it is not. Romans 8 deals with it positively and tells what it is."

The most important key to understanding these 2 chapters, 7 in particular is knowing that Paul is addressing issues concerning the Old Law and not in general.
Right from the start, Paul makes the "disclaimer" Notice verse 1 - "Know ye not, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law,) how that the law hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth?" The "I" that is used in chapter 7, refers not to Paul as present, as a child of God but as a representative of the Jew under the Law of Moses.

The Old Law had been done away. Hence, we are no longer bound but are free to follow the New Law.
What was the purpose of the Old Law? Paul explained in Gal 3 that it served the purpose as the schoolmaster to bring us (the Jews) to Christ. Romans 7 also tells us that the Old Law was necessary so that man knows his lost estate. The law is not sin! But through it sin is made known (7:7). Did it make a difference what sin can do to us whether we know of it or not? NO! But the knowledge of sin and the consequences makes us aware of not going there! That was the purpose of the Old Law.
Throughout the rest of the chapter, Paul describes in increasing tension the helpless estate of man. He is crippled by sin. So what if the old man knew his lost estate? How could he gain life? The Old Law only condemned but gave no solution.

Then finally almost like a great release of pressure from a pent up bottle, Paul introduces the solution in chapter 8 and goes on in detail about the spiritual nature of the new life in Christ, in contrast to that in flesh of the Old Law (v. 1-17) This new life has hope! (v. 18-25) It has assurance! (v. 26-30) It gives victory!(v. 8:31-39)

The stunning conclusion is such powerful testament to the saving grace of God. It doesn't matter who we are, whom we've been. God has the power to save those who will be obedient to Him.
Yet, it's all too easy for us to spurn this amazing grace and love. Just as there were those in the first century who sought to be bound to the Old Law whom Christ has already abolished, we can choose to reject His love if we do not follow in the pattern He has determined for His church and membership.

Christ has done His part. It's up to us to do ours. God be with us all to always choose the right part to do.

In Him
Paul

References cited
Taylor, Robert, Studies in Romans (Abilene, TX: Quality Publications), 2003. p. 121

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But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. ~ Hebrews 3:13
And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord. ~ Acts 22:16