Living by the Spirit: A Transformative Christian Life

 

Summary

In Romans 8:5-8, the Apostle Paul contrasts the life of those who live according to the flesh with those who live according to the Spirit. This passage is not about comparing different types of Christians but rather distinguishing between non-Christians and Christians. The non-Christian is governed by the flesh, leading to spiritual death and enmity against God. Such a person cannot please God or fulfill the righteousness of the law. In contrast, the Christian is characterized by a life dominated by the Spirit, which brings life and peace.

The Christian life is not merely about abstaining from certain behaviors but is fundamentally positive and transformative. It is about being habitually dominated by the Spirit, which means setting one's mind on the things of the Spirit. This involves a deliberate and voluntary action, encompassing intellect, emotions, and desires. The Christian is deeply interested in spiritual matters, not out of duty or habit, but because these are the things that truly matter to them.

The things of the Spirit are not merely intellectual pursuits or religious activities. They are the deep mysteries of God, revealed by the Spirit, which the natural mind cannot comprehend. The Christian is concerned with their soul and its relationship with God, which becomes the central focus of their life. This relationship is more important than any earthly concern, and the Christian is willing to sacrifice everything else for it.

The Spirit's work in the Christian leads them to glorify Jesus Christ, revealing His person and atoning work. The Christian delights in these truths, finding life and joy in them. They are interested in the way of salvation, justification, sanctification, and union with Christ. These are not just theological terms but realities that the Christian experiences and rejoices in.

The Christian is also concerned about the state of the world, understanding it through the lens of spiritual warfare. They see the need for individuals to become Christians as the only hope for true change. The Christian's life is centered around the Word of God, seeking to understand it deeply and live by it. This is the life of one who is after the Spirit, marked by a new mind, new desires, and a new understanding.

Key Takeaways:

- The distinction between living according to the flesh and the Spirit is not about different types of Christians but about the fundamental difference between non-Christians and Christians. The Christian life is characterized by being dominated by the Spirit, leading to life and peace. [02:51]

- A Christian's life is not defined by what they abstain from but by the positive transformation brought about by the Spirit. This involves setting one's mind on the things of the Spirit, which includes intellect, emotions, and desires. [09:06]

- The things of the Spirit are the deep mysteries of God, revealed by the Spirit, which the natural mind cannot comprehend. The Christian is deeply concerned with their soul and its relationship with God, which becomes the central focus of their life. [23:28]

- The Spirit's work in the Christian leads them to glorify Jesus Christ, revealing His person and atoning work. The Christian delights in these truths, finding life and joy in them, and is deeply interested in the way of salvation, justification, sanctification, and union with Christ. [33:03]

- The Christian is concerned about the state of the world, understanding it through the lens of spiritual warfare. They see the need for individuals to become Christians as the only hope for true change, and their life is centered around the Word of God, seeking to understand it deeply and live by it. [42:53]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:12] - Introduction to Romans 8:5-8
- [01:05] - Approach to the Passage
- [02:20] - Contrast Between Non-Christian and Christian
- [03:06] - Characteristics of the Non-Christian
- [04:45] - Characteristics of the Christian
- [06:09] - Assurance of Salvation
- [08:17] - Positive Description of the Christian
- [10:00] - Life Dominated by the Spirit
- [12:35] - Mindset of the Christian
- [14:30] - Interest in Spiritual Matters
- [16:00] - Things of the Spirit
- [23:28] - Deep Mysteries of God
- [33:03] - Glorifying Jesus Christ
- [42:53] - Concern for the World
- [47:24] - Conclusion and Prayer

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- Romans 8:5-8

Observation Questions:
1. According to Romans 8:5-8, what are the characteristics of those who live according to the flesh versus those who live according to the Spirit? [00:12]
2. How does the sermon describe the mindset of a non-Christian in relation to God and His law? [03:53]
3. What does it mean to be "after the Spirit" as described in the sermon? [10:00]
4. How does the sermon explain the role of the Holy Spirit in revealing the deep mysteries of God to Christians? [23:28]

Interpretation Questions:
1. What does it mean for a Christian to be "dominated by the Spirit," and how does this differ from simply abstaining from certain behaviors? [09:06]
2. How does the sermon suggest that a Christian's interest in spiritual matters is different from a mere interest in religion or theology? [16:37]
3. In what ways does the sermon describe the Christian's concern for the state of the world, and how is this concern different from a non-Christian's perspective? [42:53]
4. How does the sermon illustrate the Christian's delight in the truths of Jesus Christ's person and atoning work? [33:03]

Application Questions:
1. Reflect on your own life: Are there areas where you feel more "after the flesh" than "after the Spirit"? What steps can you take to shift your focus? [10:00]
2. The sermon emphasizes the importance of being deeply interested in spiritual matters. What are some practical ways you can cultivate a deeper interest in your relationship with God this week? [15:27]
3. Consider your current understanding of the deep mysteries of God. How can you seek to grow in this understanding, and who might you reach out to for guidance or mentorship? [23:28]
4. The sermon describes the Christian life as one of positive transformation. Identify one area of your life where you desire transformation and discuss how you can invite the Holy Spirit to work in that area. [09:06]
5. How do you currently view the state of the world? What actions can you take to align your perspective with the spiritual understanding described in the sermon? [42:53]
6. The sermon mentions the joy found in the truths of Jesus Christ. How can you incorporate moments of reflection and gratitude for these truths into your daily routine? [33:03]
7. Think about your interactions with others. How can you demonstrate the life and peace that come from being dominated by the Spirit in your relationships this week? [02:51]

Devotional

Day 1: The Spirit vs. the Flesh: A Fundamental Distinction
The distinction between living according to the flesh and the Spirit is not about different types of Christians but about the fundamental difference between non-Christians and Christians. Those who live according to the flesh are governed by their sinful nature, leading to spiritual death and enmity against God. They cannot please God or fulfill the righteousness of the law. In contrast, Christians are characterized by a life dominated by the Spirit, which brings life and peace. This transformation is not merely about abstaining from certain behaviors but involves a complete renewal of the mind and heart, leading to a life that is pleasing to God. [02:51]

"For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit. For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and peace." (Romans 8:5-6, ESV)

Reflection: In what areas of your life do you find yourself living according to the flesh? How can you invite the Spirit to transform these areas today?


Day 2: Transformation Through the Spirit
A Christian's life is not defined by what they abstain from but by the positive transformation brought about by the Spirit. This involves setting one's mind on the things of the Spirit, which includes intellect, emotions, and desires. The Christian life is fundamentally positive and transformative, characterized by a habitual focus on spiritual matters. This transformation is not out of duty or habit but because these are the things that truly matter to the believer. The Spirit's work in the Christian leads to a life of joy, peace, and fulfillment. [09:06]

"And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit." (2 Corinthians 3:18, ESV)

Reflection: What specific steps can you take today to set your mind on the things of the Spirit and allow for positive transformation in your life?


Day 3: The Deep Mysteries of God
The things of the Spirit are the deep mysteries of God, revealed by the Spirit, which the natural mind cannot comprehend. The Christian is deeply concerned with their soul and its relationship with God, which becomes the central focus of their life. This relationship is more important than any earthly concern, and the Christian is willing to sacrifice everything else for it. The Spirit reveals the deep truths of God, leading the believer into a deeper understanding and relationship with Him. [23:28]

"But, as it is written, 'What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the heart of man imagined, what God has prepared for those who love him'—these things God has revealed to us through the Spirit. For the Spirit searches everything, even the depths of God." (1 Corinthians 2:9-10, ESV)

Reflection: How can you prioritize your relationship with God today, seeking to understand the deep mysteries He reveals through His Spirit?


Day 4: Glorifying Jesus Christ
The Spirit's work in the Christian leads them to glorify Jesus Christ, revealing His person and atoning work. The Christian delights in these truths, finding life and joy in them, and is deeply interested in the way of salvation, justification, sanctification, and union with Christ. These are not just theological terms but realities that the Christian experiences and rejoices in. The Spirit's revelation of Christ's work brings profound joy and purpose to the believer's life. [33:03]

"But when the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness about me." (John 15:26, ESV)

Reflection: In what ways can you glorify Jesus Christ in your daily life, acknowledging His work and presence in your journey?


Day 5: Understanding the World Through Spiritual Warfare
The Christian is concerned about the state of the world, understanding it through the lens of spiritual warfare. They see the need for individuals to become Christians as the only hope for true change, and their life is centered around the Word of God, seeking to understand it deeply and live by it. This perspective leads the believer to engage in the world with a sense of urgency and purpose, knowing that true transformation comes through the Spirit's work in people's lives. [42:53]

"For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds." (2 Corinthians 10:3-4, ESV)

Reflection: How can you actively participate in spiritual warfare today, using the Word of God as your guide and seeking to bring about true change in the world around you?

Quotes



The Apostle here is not contrasting a poor sort of Christian, what is frequently called the carnal Christian, with a spiritual Christian. That isn't what he's doing at all. He is comparing a man who's not a Christian at all with a man who is a Christian, with any Christian, with every Christian. [00:02:30]

The Christian life is not merely about abstaining from certain behaviors but is fundamentally positive and transformative. It is about being habitually dominated by the Spirit, which means setting one's mind on the things of the Spirit. This involves a deliberate and voluntary action, encompassing intellect, emotions, and desires. [00:09:57]

The Christian is deeply interested in spiritual matters, not out of duty or habit, but because these are the things that truly matter to them. The things of the Spirit are not merely intellectual pursuits or religious activities. They are the deep mysteries of God, revealed by the Spirit, which the natural mind cannot comprehend. [00:14:31]

The Spirit's work in the Christian leads them to glorify Jesus Christ, revealing His person and atoning work. The Christian delights in these truths, finding life and joy in them. They are interested in the way of salvation, justification, sanctification, and union with Christ. [00:33:03]

The Christian is concerned about the state of the world, understanding it through the lens of spiritual warfare. They see the need for individuals to become Christians as the only hope for true change, and their life is centered around the Word of God, seeking to understand it deeply and live by it. [00:42:53]

The Christian is a man who's been awakened to these things. God has revealed them unto us by his Spirit. We see them; they're no longer a mystery to us. The mystery in the New Testament doesn't mean something mysterious, vague, nebulous, indefinite. No, it means something that is inaccessible to the natural mind. [00:24:38]

The Christian is not in trouble about the two Natures in the one person. He doesn't understand, but he believes nothing else is adequate. He sees he's truly man; he sees equally that he's truly God. He knows that the babe of Bethlehem is the Lord Of Glory who has come down on Earth to dwell. [00:34:31]

The Christian is interested in themselves as souls. Are you interested in yourself as a soul, primarily, or are you interested in yourself as a member of your profession or as a husband or as a wife or as parents or as children or in what you do, your business, your work, your occupation, your leisure? [00:25:26]

The Christian is aware of and is concerned about his sinfulness. He knows what it is to be in trouble about his soul. He is aware of his weakness. He spends much of his time in thinking about these things. When he was in the Old State, he may have got on his knees by the side of his bed at night to say his prayers. [00:31:13]

The Christian is concerned about the whole state of the world. The Christian is interested in the state of the world. He's not only interested in his own soul. It's a libel on us to say we are not interested in the world. Of course, we are, but we are not interested as the other man is. [00:42:34]

The Christian is a man who wants to understand in that sense and not merely to have that superficial academic acquaintance with the mere letter of the scripture. Oh, says the Apostle, this is the truth about us. He that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of all men. [00:44:48]

The Christian is a man who wants to understand in that sense and not merely to have that superficial academic acquaintance with the mere letter of the scripture. Oh, says the Apostle, this is the truth about us. He that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of all men. [00:45:08]

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