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Commentaries
English
Romans
  
7. We are children of God through the dwelling of the Holy Spirit in us
(Romans 8:12-17)
12Therefore, brethren, we are debtors--not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh.13For 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.14For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.


The Holy Spirit does not conclude a truce with the multitude of selfishness which dwells in you, but he fights it until it is removed. The Spirit of God will leave you unless you accept your death on the cross of Christ, and die to your pride, anger, exaggerations, and all your sins and offenses. The believer must not be bound by money or amusement so that he may be free and open to the Spirit of his Lord. The Holy One works in you, as a surgeon who removes the boils from the body of man. He cuts it open, and eradicates the corruption. In such a manner, the Spirit of God pushes you from darkness to light, from lying to truthfulness, from amusement to the presence of God. Do you feel his guidance? Do you hear his merciful voice? He intends to convert and purify you completely, and change you into the image of the merciful Christ. The miracle of sanctification by the Spirit of God appears in you through love, joy, and peace, which are founded on humility, abstinence, and meekness, together with all the characteristics of Christ, as if you are dressed with your pure Savior. When this kind Spirit flows in your soul, you become a son of God. Do you recognize the great privilege that, despite your sinfulness, you have become a true child of the Creator of the universe through the blood and Spirit of Christ? Do you dare to say that you are a son of God? For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.