Verse
Context
Walking by the Spirit
8Those controlled by the flesh cannot please God.9You, however, are controlled not by the flesh, but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ. 10But if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive because of righteousness.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But ye are not in the flesh - Ye Christians, who have believed in Christ Jesus as the sin offering which has condemned sin in the flesh; and, having been justified by faith and made partakers of the Holy Spirit, are enabled to walk in newness of life. If so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you - Or seeing that, ειπερ, the Spirit of God dwelleth in you. The flesh, the sinful principle, dwelt in them before; and its motions were the proofs of its indwelling; but now the Spirit dwells in them; and its testimony in their conscience, and its powerful operations in their hearts, are the proofs of its indwelling. God made man in union with himself, and his heart was his temple. Sin being committed, the temple was defiled, and God abandoned it. Jesus Christ is come by his sacrifice and Spirit to cleanse the temple, and make man again a habitation of God through the Spirit. And when this almighty Spirit again makes the heart his residence, then the soul is delivered from the moral effects of the fall. And that this is absolutely necessary to our present peace and final salvation is proved from this: that if any man have not the Spirit of Christ - the mind that was in him, produced there by the power of the Holy Ghost - he is none of his; he does not belong to the kingdom, flock, or family of God. This is an awful conclusion! Reader, lay it to heart.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But ye are not in the flesh, but in the spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you--This does not mean, "if the disposition or mind of God dwell in you"; but "if the Holy Ghost dwell in you" (see Co1 6:11, Co1 6:19; Co1 3:16, &c.). (It thus appears that to be "in the spirit" means here to be under the dominion of our own renewed mind; because the indwelling of God's Spirit is given as the evidence that we are "in the spirit"). Now--"But." if any man have not the Spirit of Christ--Again, this does not mean "the disposition or mind of Christ," but the Holy Ghost; here called "the Spirit of Christ," just as He is called "the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus" (see on Rom 8:2). It is as "the Spirit of Christ" that the Holy Ghost takes possession of believers, introducing into them all the gracious, dove-like disposition which dwelt in Him (Mat 3:16; Joh 3:34). Now if any man's heart be void, not of such dispositions, but of the blessed Author of them, "the Spirit of Christ." he is none of his--even though intellectually convinced of the truth of Christianity, and in a general sense influence by its spirit. Sharp, solemn statement this!
John Gill Bible Commentary
But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit,.... That is, ye are not carnal, but spiritual men; or ye are not in a state of unregeneracy, but in a state of grace: the reason proving this is, if so be, or "seeing" that the Spirit of God dwell in you; the inhabitation of the Spirit is a distinguishing character of a regenerate man; which is to be understood not of his omnipresence, nor of a participation of his gifts, whether ordinary or extraordinary: nor does the Spirit of God only dwell in his people by his graces, but in person as in office, and in a way of special favour; as a spirit of illumination, regeneration, sanctification, and faith, as a comforter, a spirit of adoption, an intercessor, and as a pledge and seal of happiness: which inhabitation is personal; is not peculiar to him to the exclusion of the Father and of the Son; is expressive of property and dominion; is not confined to the souls of men, for he also dwells in their bodies; it is operative, powerful, and perpetual; it is the security of the saints' perseverance, and the pledge of their resurrection and future glory. This is owing not to any goodness in them, or to any fitness and preparations of theirs to receive him; but to a federal union to Christ and relation to him, to our Lord's ascension and intercession, and to the love and grace of the Father; and this proves a man to be a regenerate man, to be in the Spirit, and not in the flesh; for the Spirit of God is never in this sense in an unregenerate man, nor is he in any such sense without his grace; so that the indwelling of the Spirit is the grand evidence of relation to God, of an interest in Christ and union to him, and of a man's state and condition God-ward; now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. By "the Spirit of Christ", is not meant the human soul of Christ; nor his divine nature; nor his Gospel, which is the Spirit that gives life; but the Holy Ghost, the third person in the Trinity, the same which is called the Spirit before; and proves Christ to be God, he proceeds from him as from the Father, is sent by him, and with which Christ's human nature was fitted and filled. The Jews (x) often speak of , or "the spirit of the Messiah". Now to have him is not barely to partake of his gifts, but of his graces; to be possessed of him as one's own; to have communion with him, and to have him dwelling in us. There are some who have him not, nor never will have him, being none of Christ's; and God's elect, whilst in an unregenerate state, are without him; and whilst such, though they are his chosen and adopted ones, they are his by his Father's gift and his own purchase, they are his pardoned ones through his blood, and his justified ones through his righteousness; yet they are not his regenerated, called, and sanctified ones; nor can they claim any interest in him; nor are they known to be his by themselves or others; nor have they any communion with him, or enjoyment of him. (x) Zohar in Gen. fol. 19. 3. & 107. 3. & 128. 3. Baal Hatturim in Gen. 1, 2. Caphtor, fol. 113. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
8:9 You are controlled by the Spirit: In contrast to unbelievers, who continue to live under the domination of Adam’s sinful nature, believers are directed in their lives by the Holy Spirit. The Spirit does not take away human initiative or make it impossible for believers to sin. However, as the most powerful force in believers’ lives, the Spirit makes it possible for them to resist the continuing power of sin.
Walking by the Spirit
8Those controlled by the flesh cannot please God.9You, however, are controlled not by the flesh, but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Christ. 10But if Christ is in you, your body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive because of righteousness.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Christ Imparts Life
By Major Ian Thomas14K45:04LifeMAT 6:33JHN 14:6ROM 8:92CO 13:5GAL 2:202PE 1:3In this sermon, the preacher discusses the fallen nature of humanity and the expectations that God has for us. He emphasizes that in our flesh, apart from Christ, we are destined for failure. The preacher uses the analogy of a pig finding delight in mud to illustrate the inherent nature of our sinful flesh. However, he also encourages believers to rely on Christ and expect Him to work in and through them, conforming them to His will. The sermon concludes with a cautionary reminder that leaving the door open to sin can have disastrous consequences.
The Grace of Yielding - Part 1
By Derek Prince14K36:39MAT 6:33ROM 8:9ROM 15:11CO 1:25In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of yielding and recognizing one's weaknesses. He refers to a verse from Acts chapter 17, where Paul speaks about God overlooking the ignorance of idolatry for a brief moment but now commanding everyone to repent. The speaker emphasizes that just because God allowed someone to get away with something in the past, it doesn't mean they can continue doing it. He then shares personal experiences and scriptures, including Romans 15:1, to highlight the importance of bearing the weaknesses of others and learning from the weakness and foolishness of the cross. The sermon concludes with a story about the speaker's wife allowing Arab women to attend a gathering, which led to blessings for all involved.
Ye Must Be Born Again - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill10K46:04Born AgainObedience to GodRegenerationJHN 1:12JHN 3:3JHN 14:6ROM 8:92CO 5:17GAL 2:20EPH 2:8TIT 3:51PE 1:231JN 5:12Leonard Ravenhill emphasizes the necessity of being born again, arguing that mere morality is insufficient for true spiritual transformation. He critiques the modern church's focus on superficiality and calls for a deeper understanding of biblical regeneration, highlighting that true Christianity is about receiving Christ into one's life rather than just adhering to moral standards. Ravenhill illustrates his points with historical references and personal anecdotes, stressing that the essence of salvation is a radical change of heart and life, which is only possible through the Holy Spirit. He urges believers to seek a genuine baptism of obedience and to recognize the urgency of the gospel message in a world increasingly detached from God.
Surrender to the Faithful One Brings Abiding Victory
By Kathryn Kuhlman9.6K17:12VictoryJHN 15:5ROM 8:9COL 2:9In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal journey of seeking holiness and a deeper relationship with God. He describes how he believed that holiness could be attained through diligent use of spiritual practices. However, he experienced a breakthrough when he read a letter that emphasized the importance of faith in Christ and the provision of divine grace for victory in every circumstance. The speaker highlights the need for surrender and the value of paying a high price for spiritual growth. He also mentions the slow understanding of believers and suggests that understanding can be gained by examining the experiences of devoted individuals.
The Promises of God - Part 2
By Kathryn Kuhlman6.6K30:08PromisesJHN 1:12JHN 3:3ROM 8:9ROM 10:92CO 5:17EPH 1:71JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the current state of the nation and emphasizes the importance of knowing one's worth and the worth of others. The speaker shares their personal belief in staking everything on Jesus, whom they have never seen but have witnessed his transformative power in the lives of people. They describe the greatest miracle as the transformation of a life and give examples of individuals who have been lifted out of despair and given new purpose through their faith in Jesus. The speaker concludes by highlighting the significance of the spiritual birth and the ability of Jesus to bring about a complete change in a person's life.
The Challenge of Every Christian - Part 2
By Alan Redpath5.6K58:19ChallengeMAT 6:33ACT 2:3ROM 8:92CO 5:15GAL 6:15EPH 4:22In this sermon, the preacher addresses the issue of why Christians often fail to share their faith with others. He suggests that the reason for this is a lack of understanding and experience of the reality of Jesus in their lives. The preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding the facts of the gospel and having a personal encounter with Jesus in order to be effective in sharing the message of Christ. He also highlights the need for Christians to have a deep and passionate love for Jesus that compels them to share their faith with others. The sermon concludes with the preacher expressing his own excitement and enthusiasm for the love of Jesus and the transformative power of being in Christ.
(John - Part 51): How to Cultivate the Holy Spirit's Presence
By A.W. Tozer5.4K40:38ExpositionalMAT 6:33JHN 14:16ROM 8:9GAL 5:22In this sermon, the preacher initially planned to continue his series on the book of John but discovered a great interest in the topic of the Holy Spirit. He decided to divide the sermon and focus on the Holy Spirit's companionship in the next session. The preacher emphasized the importance of surrendering to the Spirit of God and cultivating a oneness with Him. He compared this oneness to a young couple needing to have common interests and a shared outlook in order to walk together voluntarily. The preacher encouraged the congregation to seek a deep relationship with the Holy Spirit and allow Him to guide and transform their lives.
Forgiveness
By Alan Redpath5.3K34:52ForgivenessMAT 5:1MAT 6:33MAT 18:15JHN 15:5ROM 8:9GAL 5:22EPH 5:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a submissive and simple heart. He warns against causing others to sin and highlights the severe consequences for those who do so. The speaker then discusses the need for forgiveness, referencing Matthew 18:15-20. He acknowledges that forgiveness may not be popular, but emphasizes its significance in the Christian faith.
Ye Are Yet Carnal
By Leonard Ravenhill5.0K1:03:21CarnalityMAT 6:33ACT 18:5ACT 18:9ROM 7:18ROM 8:1ROM 8:9ROM 8:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of humility and surrendering to God. He emphasizes the need to let go of pride and worldly possessions in order to fully submit to God's will. The preacher shares the story of a man who experienced a dramatic transformation after confessing his sins and surrendering his life to God. He also mentions the importance of studying the Bible and being cautious of false teachings. Overall, the sermon encourages listeners to humble themselves before God and fully commit their lives to Him.
The Joys of Being Spirit Filled
By Francis Chan4.4K41:53ROM 8:9ROM 15:5EPH 5:18EPH 5:21COL 3:16COL 3:231TH 5:161JN 1:91JN 4:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of being Spirit-filled, focusing on constant thanksgiving, sharing scripture with others, and maintaining a heart of worship through psalms and hymns. It highlights the need for genuine love and submission in relationships as a reflection of one's relationship with God.
Crucified With Christ
By Leonard Ravenhill4.2K1:23:21Crucified With ChristROM 7:18ROM 8:1ROM 8:5ROM 8:9ROM 8:13ROM 8:18ROM 8:26ROM 8:28ROM 8:31ROM 8:35ROM 8:371CO 3:1In this sermon, the speaker describes a gruesome scene of a man being crucified and then disemboweled, emphasizing the horror and brutality of the cross. The speaker then transitions to discussing the importance of having a vision for the lost souls in the world and the lack of vision in the church. He highlights the presence of envy, strife, and divisions among believers, suggesting that immaturity is hindering the church from receiving the revelations God wants to show them. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the need for believers to die to themselves and be filled with the Spirit in order to experience true life and fulfillment.
Biblical Assurance 1 - Austin, Tx
By Paul Washer4.1K43:16AssuranceMAT 6:33ROM 8:92CO 13:5GAL 5:22JAS 2:171JN 1:51JN 2:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the true nature of God and His will. He criticizes the reduction of Christianity to a few principles and a prayer for personal gain. The speaker highlights that God is not a hidden or distant deity, but has revealed Himself and His desires to humanity. The sermon also introduces the concept of tests in Scripture, with the first test being discussed at the end of the transcript.
Resources Which Must Be Received
By Alan Redpath3.6K53:16ResourcesJHN 7:38ACT 1:8ACT 2:4ROM 8:91CO 2:4GAL 5:22EPH 5:17EPH 5:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the seriousness of the Christian life and the need for young people to understand that following Jesus is not just about having fun and games. He believes that young people should be presented with the gospel as total warfare, rather than a happy and easy life. The speaker also highlights the importance of receiving the Holy Spirit in the life of a Christian and in the church, as there is no substitute for the power and guidance of the Holy Spirit. He encourages the audience to learn the secret of steadiness in their Christian walk, even in ordinary circumstances, and to rely on God's fullness to remain steady in the midst of storms and pressures.
A Life of Victory
By J. Sidlow Baxter3.1K47:53VictoryMAT 6:33ROM 8:1ROM 8:9ROM 8:11ROM 8:35ROM 8:38In this sermon, the preacher begins by emphasizing the comforting truth that there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ and that nothing can separate them from God's love. However, he then raises the question of what happens in the in-between, the present life with its challenges and temptations. He shares a story about a father who reluctantly allows his daughter to go to a summer camp, but decides to secretly observe what goes on there. The preacher highlights the importance of freedom in the Christian life and points to Romans 8 as the key to understanding it, emphasizing the role of the Holy Spirit in guiding and empowering believers.
Immersed in the Holy Spirit
By Zac Poonen2.8K1:05:221SA 10:6MAT 7:7LUK 11:13JHN 17:10ACT 1:8ROM 8:9ROM 8:15JAS 4:2This sermon emphasizes the importance of seeking the Holy Spirit with a sincere heart, surrendering all areas of our lives to God, and being open to His transformative work. It highlights the need to yield every room in our hearts to Jesus, seek Him earnestly, and believe in His eagerness to fill us with His Spirit. The speaker encourages a deep commitment to Christ's lordship, a continuous walk with God, and a hunger for a consistent life filled with the Holy Spirit.
More Than Conquerors - Part 2
By Leonard Ravenhill2.8K36:28Victorious LivingROM 8:1ROM 8:9ROM 8:11ROM 8:14ROM 8:28In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the unbreakable love of God. He uses the analogy of receiving letters from his wife while traveling to illustrate the excitement and anticipation of receiving messages from loved ones. The preacher then shifts to the image of airplanes defying gravity and relates it to the power of God that can lift us above the pull of the world, flesh, and devil. He references the end of Romans 7 and encourages the audience to read a poem by F.W.H. Myers about St. Paul's deep desire to save lost souls. Overall, the sermon highlights the need for God's intervention in our lives to overcome the sinful nature and the importance of recognizing Jesus as our one true hope.
The Infinite God
By A.W. Tozer2.7K38:04Character Of GodISA 55:8MAT 6:33ROM 8:91CO 2:9EPH 3:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a big vision of God and thinking big about Him. He criticizes the modern church for having a low concept of God, comparing Him to a movie star. The preacher highlights the infinite and boundless grace of God, stating that even one drop of Jesus' blood is enough to atone for the sins of all humanity. He concludes by emphasizing that God's love and mercy have no limits, and that His grace is big enough for everyone.
Romans 8 - Freedom From Bondage
By Leonard Ravenhill2.6K1:14:17Freedom From SinPSA 119:15ROM 7:24ROM 8:6ROM 8:9ROM 8:14ROM 8:26ROM 8:28In this sermon, the preacher shares a story about a wealthy boy who attended a public school and always had more than enough to share with his classmates. However, one day, a boy accused him of being snobbish because of his family's wealth. The preacher then references Romans 8:1, emphasizing that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. He recalls a memory from his time at a Methodist Church, where he observed a humble garbage collector who passionately praised God during worship. The preacher warns about the importance of accepting the salvation offered through the blood of Jesus and the consequences of rejecting it. He also predicts future collapses in America and emphasizes the need for repentance and God's mercy.
The Obedience of Sonship
By Art Katz2.5K1:43:26SonshipMAT 6:33JHN 14:15ACT 1:8ROM 8:9ROM 12:11CO 2:10GAL 5:22EPH 5:181TH 5:19HEB 5:9JAS 1:221PE 1:141JN 2:61JN 3:24In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of understanding and interpreting the scriptures to protect ourselves from deception. He mentions an article by Reggie Kelly about the perspective of natural disasters, specifically the tsunami. The speaker also emphasizes the need to support and contribute to the traveling expenses of Simon, who plays a crucial role in the community. The sermon touches on the topic of reaching out to the Jewish community and how to convince those who may not sense the calling to do so.
College Conference - 2 Cor. 13:5 & 1 Jn.
By Paul Washer2.3K50:31AssuranceMAT 7:20ROM 8:92CO 13:5EPH 2:81JN 1:91JN 2:31JN 2:6In this sermon, the speaker highlights the problem of reductionism in our understanding of the gospel. He criticizes the tendency to simplify the message of Jesus Christ into a few basic principles, diminishing its depth and significance. The speaker shares personal anecdotes to illustrate his point, emphasizing the need to truly marvel at the gospel rather than treating it as a basic introductory lesson. He also emphasizes the importance of being sensitive to sin and growing in our knowledge of God.
Revelation of Jesus Christ - Part 10 of 10
By T. Austin-Sparks2.1K41:29Jesus ChristMAT 6:33ROM 3:22ROM 8:92CO 3:182CO 4:62CO 5:212CO 12:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the fear of failure and falling short in our spiritual journey. He emphasizes the need for certain provisions to overcome these fears. The speaker then focuses on the face of Jesus Christ as the purpose, pattern, and provision of God. He highlights the sufficiency of Christ's righteousness, the work of the Holy Spirit in transforming us, and the grace available to us in times of suffering and affliction. The sermon concludes with a call to look into the face of Jesus and find the answer to all our needs.
Bearing the Image of God
By Steve Gallagher1.9K26:07Image Of GodMAT 6:33JHN 14:16ROM 8:9GAL 6:7EPH 2:8JAS 1:221PE 3:3In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes that the purpose of life is not about feelings or blessings, but about glorifying God. He shares the story of Watchman Knee, a man who endured 20 years of labor camp and indoctrination in order to break him. Despite the harsh conditions, Watchman Knee remained faithful to God. The speaker also highlights the suffering of Jesus Christ, who faced the curse of God and darkness in Gethsemane but ultimately triumphed over it. The sermon encourages listeners to persevere in their faith and trust in God's plan, even in the midst of trials.
Christ Magnified in Our Bodies by Leonard Ravenhil
By Leonard Ravenhill1.9K59:23ROM 8:9ROM 12:1GAL 2:20PHP 1:20This sermon emphasizes the importance of living a life where Christ is magnified in every aspect, whether in our thoughts, emotions, actions, or even in the face of challenges and persecution. It calls for a deep commitment to surrendering to God, presenting our bodies as living sacrifices, and allowing the love of Christ to constrain and motivate us to serve Him wholeheartedly.
The Necessity of the Spirit's Work
By C.H. Spurgeon1.8K39:19EZK 36:27MAT 7:7LUK 18:13JHN 3:16ROM 8:91CO 1:21HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher describes a scenario where a reputable and upright tradesman is confronted with the truth that he is a condemned sinner, just like a thief on the cross. The preacher questions whether this man would believe and truly feel his sinfulness. The preacher then goes on to describe the transformation that occurs in a person after their conversion to Christianity. They are able to face troubles and storms with faith, even in the midst of great loss and adversity. The sermon emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty and finding joy in Him, regardless of circumstances.
Christ Magnified - Part 3
By Leonard Ravenhill1.7K08:57ROM 8:9This sermon emphasizes the victory believers have over death and sin through the power of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus. It delves into the transformation from living in the flesh to living in the Spirit, highlighting the indwelling of the Spirit of God and Christ within believers. The message focuses on the complete surrender of one's will to God, allowing Christ to live through them and magnify Himself in their lives.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
But ye are not in the flesh - Ye Christians, who have believed in Christ Jesus as the sin offering which has condemned sin in the flesh; and, having been justified by faith and made partakers of the Holy Spirit, are enabled to walk in newness of life. If so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you - Or seeing that, ειπερ, the Spirit of God dwelleth in you. The flesh, the sinful principle, dwelt in them before; and its motions were the proofs of its indwelling; but now the Spirit dwells in them; and its testimony in their conscience, and its powerful operations in their hearts, are the proofs of its indwelling. God made man in union with himself, and his heart was his temple. Sin being committed, the temple was defiled, and God abandoned it. Jesus Christ is come by his sacrifice and Spirit to cleanse the temple, and make man again a habitation of God through the Spirit. And when this almighty Spirit again makes the heart his residence, then the soul is delivered from the moral effects of the fall. And that this is absolutely necessary to our present peace and final salvation is proved from this: that if any man have not the Spirit of Christ - the mind that was in him, produced there by the power of the Holy Ghost - he is none of his; he does not belong to the kingdom, flock, or family of God. This is an awful conclusion! Reader, lay it to heart.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
But ye are not in the flesh, but in the spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you--This does not mean, "if the disposition or mind of God dwell in you"; but "if the Holy Ghost dwell in you" (see Co1 6:11, Co1 6:19; Co1 3:16, &c.). (It thus appears that to be "in the spirit" means here to be under the dominion of our own renewed mind; because the indwelling of God's Spirit is given as the evidence that we are "in the spirit"). Now--"But." if any man have not the Spirit of Christ--Again, this does not mean "the disposition or mind of Christ," but the Holy Ghost; here called "the Spirit of Christ," just as He is called "the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus" (see on Rom 8:2). It is as "the Spirit of Christ" that the Holy Ghost takes possession of believers, introducing into them all the gracious, dove-like disposition which dwelt in Him (Mat 3:16; Joh 3:34). Now if any man's heart be void, not of such dispositions, but of the blessed Author of them, "the Spirit of Christ." he is none of his--even though intellectually convinced of the truth of Christianity, and in a general sense influence by its spirit. Sharp, solemn statement this!
John Gill Bible Commentary
But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit,.... That is, ye are not carnal, but spiritual men; or ye are not in a state of unregeneracy, but in a state of grace: the reason proving this is, if so be, or "seeing" that the Spirit of God dwell in you; the inhabitation of the Spirit is a distinguishing character of a regenerate man; which is to be understood not of his omnipresence, nor of a participation of his gifts, whether ordinary or extraordinary: nor does the Spirit of God only dwell in his people by his graces, but in person as in office, and in a way of special favour; as a spirit of illumination, regeneration, sanctification, and faith, as a comforter, a spirit of adoption, an intercessor, and as a pledge and seal of happiness: which inhabitation is personal; is not peculiar to him to the exclusion of the Father and of the Son; is expressive of property and dominion; is not confined to the souls of men, for he also dwells in their bodies; it is operative, powerful, and perpetual; it is the security of the saints' perseverance, and the pledge of their resurrection and future glory. This is owing not to any goodness in them, or to any fitness and preparations of theirs to receive him; but to a federal union to Christ and relation to him, to our Lord's ascension and intercession, and to the love and grace of the Father; and this proves a man to be a regenerate man, to be in the Spirit, and not in the flesh; for the Spirit of God is never in this sense in an unregenerate man, nor is he in any such sense without his grace; so that the indwelling of the Spirit is the grand evidence of relation to God, of an interest in Christ and union to him, and of a man's state and condition God-ward; now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. By "the Spirit of Christ", is not meant the human soul of Christ; nor his divine nature; nor his Gospel, which is the Spirit that gives life; but the Holy Ghost, the third person in the Trinity, the same which is called the Spirit before; and proves Christ to be God, he proceeds from him as from the Father, is sent by him, and with which Christ's human nature was fitted and filled. The Jews (x) often speak of , or "the spirit of the Messiah". Now to have him is not barely to partake of his gifts, but of his graces; to be possessed of him as one's own; to have communion with him, and to have him dwelling in us. There are some who have him not, nor never will have him, being none of Christ's; and God's elect, whilst in an unregenerate state, are without him; and whilst such, though they are his chosen and adopted ones, they are his by his Father's gift and his own purchase, they are his pardoned ones through his blood, and his justified ones through his righteousness; yet they are not his regenerated, called, and sanctified ones; nor can they claim any interest in him; nor are they known to be his by themselves or others; nor have they any communion with him, or enjoyment of him. (x) Zohar in Gen. fol. 19. 3. & 107. 3. & 128. 3. Baal Hatturim in Gen. 1, 2. Caphtor, fol. 113. 2.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
8:9 You are controlled by the Spirit: In contrast to unbelievers, who continue to live under the domination of Adam’s sinful nature, believers are directed in their lives by the Holy Spirit. The Spirit does not take away human initiative or make it impossible for believers to sin. However, as the most powerful force in believers’ lives, the Spirit makes it possible for them to resist the continuing power of sin.