Freedom from Condemnation
As we walk through the pages of Scripture, we’re reminded that our salvation is a gift that forever changes our standing before God. In Romans 8:1-3, Francis Schaeffer invites us to revel in the freedom that comes from being in Christ.
No Condemnation
The first verse of chapter 8 echoes the theme introduced in chapter 5: “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Here, Paul reiterates that eternal life is, well, eternal. If we’ve taken Jesus as our Savior, our condemnation is a thing of the past – forever.
The Law of Life
In verse 2, Paul answers his own question from chapter 7: “Who shall deliver me from the body of this death?” The response is clear: “The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death.” Because of Jesus, our condemnation is behind us, and we’re free from the law’s power to condemn.
The Limitations of the Law
The law, while good, is powerless to save us. It’s weak because of our flesh – our inability to keep it. That’s why God sent His Son in human form to condemn sin in the flesh. Christ accomplished what we couldn’t, and His sacrifice set us free.
Life in the Real World
By emphasizing that Christ condemned sin “in the flesh,” Paul reminds us that he’s talking about our everyday lives, not some abstract concept. He’s speaking to real people like you and me, who struggle with sin and need the hope of redemption.
A Legacy of Hope
Francis Schaeffer’s insights into Romans 8:1-3 remind us that our salvation is a gift that transforms our lives. As we read God’s Word alongside great theologians from church history, may we be encouraged to live out our faith with confidence and joy.
About Francis Schaeffer
Francis A. Schaeffer (1912–1984) was a renowned Christian author, pastor, and apologist. He and his wife, Edith, founded the L’Abri Fellowship, an international study and discipleship center. Schaeffer’s legacy continues to inspire and influence Christians around the world.
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