Our scripture this morning is Romans 8:10-11 (NLT).
And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God. The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.
Paul writes some really deep truth in Romans, things that are difficult for us to understand at first. However, I have heard pastors recommend that seekers and new believers should read the Gospel of John to learn about Jesus, and Romans for an explanation of faith. Paul’s words are intended to make us see the the love God offers us, the joy we find in Him and the sad alternative for those who refuse to believe.
We read that “Christ lives within you”, the Holy Spirit that Jesus promised us in John 14:16. Those who accept Him as their Savior can have the closest possible connection with Him, His spirit with us constantly to guide and protect us. This is our blessing, that “just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.”
It is only through our faith that we can be made whole, restored to the original relationship for which we were created. We need the Lord and each other. God is always ready to welcome back prodigal souls who have been trying and failing to do it on their own.
Gracious God, You sent Your Son to love and save and free us. Help us to see His light in all Your children and share the Good News of salvation offered to all. Amen.
