The NEW Exodus - Renewal of a Promise

Romans 7-8

Chapter 7 was a little difficult for me to understand, so I am glad there are commentaries to help me understand why I was having difficulty with it and to affirm it was difficult!

We need to remember that Paul as a Jew was exceedingly zealous for the law, even to the point of death of others. His zeal and enthusiasm lead to destructive behavior. Where else have you experienced destructive enthusiasm?

Did you notice the number of times Paul uses the word "sin"? "The flesh" is something Israel shares with all humankind. The Torah simply shows up sin. The NEW exodus will free people who are enslaved by Torah. In the old exodus the Jewish people were freed from Egypt, but not freed from the slavery to sin and death. The SPIRIT enables the church to go forward into the promised land of new creation. Jesus and the spirit will lead us through the wilderness.

This was an interesting tidbit. Did you know that some people thought the secret name of Roma (Rome) was Amor (Roma spelled backwards)? Amor is translated to the word "love". A couple of key features of Roman culture was the justice of God and the peace of God. Loving God more than Caesar might create a threat to the Roman culture. Many people who love the Lord care passionately about justice. Caesar wasn't always just - especially not to Christians.

Chapter 8:26-27 helps me to understand the frustration of not knowing what or how to pray.

The last part of chapter 8, verses 31-39, are my favorites to read in times of trouble. The descriptions suffering gives us some insight into what first century Christians were experiencing. It also helps us when we are hurting. Nothing can separate us from the love of Christ Jesus! Praise God.