LESSON-5 DISCIPLESHIP The Spirit of Sonship…Romans 8:14–17…Receiving the Spirit—not just theology, but power (Romans 8:14–17)14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. 15 For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you received a spirit of adoption. When we cry, “Abba![a] Father!” 16 it is that very Spirit bearing witness[b] with our spirit that we are children of God, 17 and if children, then heirs: heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if we in fact suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him.
Being Led by the Spirit
INTRODUCTION
Romans 8:14-17 is about how those who are led by God’s Spirit are recognized as His children, heirs to His kingdom and partakers in His glory through the transformative relationship with Him as our heavenly Father.
What is Romans 8:14-17 about?
This verse beautifully illustrates the incredible depth of our relationship with God as believers. When we accept Him into our lives, we become part of His family, adopted as His own children. Just think about that for a moment – the God of the universe has chosen you to be His child, to be loved and cared for in the same way that a parent loves their own child. This is a powerful and deeply personal connection that we have with our Heavenly Father. Not only are we adopted as children of God, but we are also heirs with Christ.
This means that we inherit all the blessings and promises that come with being a part of God’s family. We share in His glory and are given the privilege of experiencing the abundant life that He promises to those who believe in Him. We, as heirs with Christ, have a secure and eternal future, knowing that our Heavenly Father loves and cherishes us.
So, as you reflect on this verse, remember the incredible honor and privilege it is to be a child of God, to be heirs with Christ, and to share in His glory. Let this truth strengthen and encourage you as you walk in faith and live out the calling that God has placed on your life.
Understanding what Romans 8:14-17 really means
Introduction In Romans 8:14-17, we delve into a profound passage within Paul’s letter to the Romans, where he delves into the transformative nature of life in the Spirit and the profound implications of being recognized as children of God.
Verse Breakdown and Commentary
“For those who are led by the Spirit of God are the children of God.” Being led by the Spirit signifies a life guided by divine wisdom and direction, as seen in (READ…Galatians 5:16-18), where Paul contrasts walking by the Spirit with gratifying fleshly desires. This guidance not only shapes our actions but also solidifies our identity as children of God, emphasizing the intimate relationship we have with our Heavenly Father.
“The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship.” This verse highlights the shift from a position of fear and slavery to one of sonship and freedom, echoing Jesus’ words in (READ….John 8:34-36) about the distinction between a slave and a son in the household. Through adoption, we are not only legally part of God’s family but also relationally connected to Him in a deep and personal way.
“And by him we cry, ‘Abba, Father.’” The term “Abba” reflects an intimate and affectionate address to God, as demonstrated by Jesus in (READ…Mark 14:36) during His prayer in Gethsemane. This privilege of calling God our Father signifies the closeness and security we have in our relationship with Him, fostering a sense of belonging and trust.
“The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.” The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in affirming our identity as children of God, as mentioned in (READ…1 John 3:24), where the Spirit serves as evidence of our connection with Him. This inner witness brings assurance and confidence, reinforcing our standing as beloved members of God’s family.
“Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.” The concept of being heirs and co-heirs with Christ underscores our inheritance in God’s kingdom, as highlighted in (READ…Galatians 4:7). This inheritance is not only a future promise but also a present reality, intertwined with the shared experience of suffering and the hope of future glory.
Relevance to People Today
Understanding ourselves as children of God offers a profound sense of belonging and purpose, anchoring us in a world often filled with uncertainty. The assurance of the Spirit brings peace and confidence, serving as a constant reminder of our identity and worth in God’s eyes. Recognizing our inheritance as heirs with Christ instills hope and perseverance, especially in the face of trials and challenges.