I have been preaching on the book of Romans for a while now. The first 7 chapters are filled with indictment. redemption, and ongoing struggle of people in the God movement with sin in their own live. I relate on every page.

Chapter 8 takes a dramatic turn as Paul begins to describe life in the Spirit as an adventure of unimaginable proportions.

Last Sunday, I preached on the first 14 verses. As I began to prepare, I was challenged with an unexpected impetus. Our church book-keeper, with whom I happened to have lived for thirty one years, got in my face with our finance report.

Suddenly, I had the need, even calling to be nuts and boltsy in the pulpit when I wanted to be spiritual and affirming.

Not about to abandon the series which I believe God had given me, I sought application to our situation from the selected Scriptures.

I never want to be so heavenly minded that I am no earthly good – and am seldom in danger of irrelevance for that reason. However, I may have perpetuated a dichotomy from time to time.

I have decided to post the results of the synthesis here because it is part of my exercise and may do you and my church some good. You can view it by downloading  Romans_8_Life in the Spirit – doc
or by visiting our News Page.