Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

Paul has been explaining the Gospel and how it works to the Romans.  He explains their Justification in how they are secure in their salvation, Justified by the robes of righteousness that covered our sin since belief.  Now in Ch. 6, 7 and 8, He’s in the midst of explaining the importance of Sanctification.  Justification happens simultaneously at the moment of belief in Christ.  The process of being Sanctified is the main stage of salvation the church on earth is presently in.  As long as a true Christian lives on earth, He being made holier than he was than he was before.  Then, we pass from this earth, the Spirit will resurrect our mortal bodies to an immortal Glorified body that will remain in that righteous stage forever!  But for now we’re being made more and more like Jesus. 

Paul wrestled with  early church along with the other apostles, to push them to live holy lives. God used apostles, preachers and teachers to bring about holiness in their lives.  Paul labored tirelessly saying, “My little children, for whom I am again in the anguish of childbirth until Christ is formed in you!” (Galations 4:19)

May Christ be truly formed in you in this church!  May you know the confidence the Spirit gives to those who belong!

• Pastor John

Other Scripture Referenced:

1 Peter 1:16 
Galatians 4:19
Galatians 5:22-23
Romans 8:31
Philippians 2:13