Slaves vs. Sons
In chapter 6 we are told that we "were once slaves of sin" but are now "slaves of righteousness". The concept is a harsh and abusive master as compared to a benevolent master. Slaves obey from a fear of the consequences they will suffer for disobedience. Fear is the driving force. If they ever get the opportunity to leave the master, they will.
In chapter 8, the picture Paul uses is no longer slaves, but sons. Sons obey out of love. Sons delight to bring pleasure to their fathers. Through the work of Christ, we have the privilege of adoption into God's family. We are not simply slaves in His house, we are SONS! And because we are sons, our obedience should be driven by love and a desire to bring pleasure to our Father!
So then, brothers, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh. For if you live according to the flesh you will die, but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, "Abba! Father!" The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs--heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.
Romans 8:12-17
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