Therefore,The word "therefore" connects this verse to the preceding chapters, particularly
Romans 7, where Paul discusses the struggle with sin and the law. It signifies a conclusion or result based on previous arguments. In
Romans 7, Paul describes the internal conflict between the desire to do good and the reality of sin. "Therefore" introduces the resolution to this struggle, emphasizing the transition from condemnation under the law to freedom in Christ.
there is now
The term "now" indicates a present reality, contrasting with the past state of condemnation. This reflects the new covenant established through Jesus Christ, which brings immediate and ongoing effects for believers. The use of "now" underscores the immediacy of the change brought about by faith in Christ, highlighting the shift from the old covenant to the new.
no condemnation
"Condemnation" refers to the judgment and penalty for sin. In the context of Roman law, condemnation would mean a legal declaration of guilt and the subsequent punishment. Biblically, it signifies the spiritual death and separation from God due to sin. The absence of condemnation for believers is a central theme of the gospel, emphasizing justification by faith. This assurance of no condemnation is rooted in the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus, fulfilling the requirements of the law and offering believers a new standing before God.
for those who are in Christ Jesus.
Being "in Christ Jesus" denotes a spiritual union with Him, a key Pauline concept. This union is achieved through faith and baptism, symbolizing the believer's identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. It implies a new identity and position, where believers are seen as righteous before God. This phrase also connects to the broader biblical narrative of being "in" someone, as seen in Adam and Christ as representatives of humanity (1 Corinthians 15:22). The concept of being "in Christ" is foundational to understanding the believer's security, transformation, and inheritance in the Christian faith.
Persons / Places / Events
1.
Paul the ApostleThe author of the Book of Romans, Paul was a key figure in the early Christian church, known for his missionary journeys and theological writings.
2.
The Church in RomeThe recipients of the letter, the Roman Christians were a diverse group of Jewish and Gentile believers living in the capital of the Roman Empire.
3.
Christ JesusCentral to the message of Romans, Jesus Christ is the Son of God, whose life, death, and resurrection provide the foundation for the Christian faith.
4.
CondemnationA legal term referring to the judgment and penalty for sin, which Paul declares is no longer applicable to those in Christ.
5.
The Law of the SpiritIntroduced later in
Romans 8, this concept contrasts with the law of sin and death, emphasizing life and freedom through the Holy Spirit.
Teaching Points
Understanding No CondemnationBelievers are free from the penalty of sin because of Christ's sacrifice. This freedom is not based on our merit but on Christ's finished work.
The Importance of Being In ChristOur identity in Christ is crucial. Being "in Christ" means we are united with Him, sharing in His righteousness and life.
Living in the SpiritRomans 8:1 sets the stage for living according to the Spirit, which empowers us to overcome sin and live in freedom.
Assurance of SalvationThis verse provides assurance and peace, reminding us that our salvation is secure in Christ, not dependent on our performance.
Freedom from Guilt and ShameUnderstanding this truth helps us live without the burden of guilt and shame, allowing us to serve God joyfully and confidently.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1.What is the meaning of Romans 8:1?
2.How does Romans 8:1 assure believers of their standing before God?
3.What does "no condemnation" mean for those in Christ Jesus?
4.How does Romans 8:1 connect to John 3:18 about belief and condemnation?
5.How can you live daily with the assurance of "no condemnation"?
6.How does being "in Christ Jesus" impact your response to sin?
7.What does "no condemnation" mean in Romans 8:1 for believers' daily lives?
8.How does Romans 8:1 relate to the concept of salvation by grace?
9.Why is the phrase "in Christ Jesus" crucial in Romans 8:1?
10.What are the top 10 Lessons from Romans 8?
11.What does "no condemnation in Christ" mean?
12.Who can condemn if God justifies us?
13.What must I do to inherit eternal life?
14.What is the difference between Jesus Christ and Christ Jesus?What Does Romans 8:1 Mean
ThereforePaul links this promise to everything he has just written about our struggle with sin (Romans 7:24-25). Because Jesus “delivers” us, the logical result is this astounding conclusion. • The word signals a rock-solid bridge: what Christ accomplished in His death and resurrection (Romans 3:24-26) is the foundation for what follows. • It also ties to the Old Testament rhythm of God rescuing His people on the basis of His covenant faithfulness (Exodus 14:13).
There is nowThe blessing is not postponed to a distant future; it is present tense. •John 5:24 echoes the same immediacy: “has eternal life and will not come under judgment.” •2 Corinthians 6:2 reminds us, “Now is the day of salvation.” The moment we trust Christ, this verdict is applied.
No condemnationLiterally zero, none, not a trace. •John 3:18 affirms, “Whoever believes in Him is not condemned.” •Psalm 103:12 paints the picture of sins removed “as far as the east is from the west.” •Isaiah 53:6 shows the substitution that makes this possible—our iniquity laid on Him, not on us. The courtroom image is clear: the Judge pronounces “Not guilty,” and that decree will never be reversed (Romans 8:33-34).
For those who are in Christ JesusThis protection belongs exclusively to everyone united with Christ by faith. •2 Corinthians 5:17: “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” •Ephesians 1:7 speaks of redemption “in Him.” •Colossians 3:3 assures believers, “Your life is hidden with Christ in God.” Union with Christ is the only safe place from wrath; outside of Him, condemnation remains (John 3:36).
summaryRomans 8:1 declares that because of Jesus’ finished work, every believer already stands in a present, unchangeable state of “no condemnation.” The verdict rests on what Christ has done, applies right now, and belongs to all who are joined to Him by faith. Live today with the settled confidence that the Judge of heaven has permanently cleared your record through His Son.
(1-11) A result is thus attained which the law of Moses could not accomplish, but which is accomplished in the gospel. The Christian is entirely freed from the law of sin and death, and from the condemnation that it entails. But he is so upon the condition that this freedom is for him a reality--that it really proceeds from the indwelling Spirit of Christ.
(1)Therefore.--The Apostle had already, at the end of the last chapter, "touched the confines" of that state of deliverance and of liberty which he is now going on to describe. The opening of this chapter is, therefore, connected in form with the close of the last. The intervention of Christ puts an end to the struggle waged within the soul. There istherefore no condemnation, &c.
Condemnation.--The condemnation which in the present and final judgment of God impends over the sinner, is removed by the intervention of Christ, and by the union of the believer with Him. By that union the power and empire of sin are thrown off and destroyed. (Comp.Romans 8:3.) There is a certain play on the word "condemn." By "condemning" the law of sin, Christremoved "condemnation" from the sinner. He removed it objectively, or in the nature of things, and this removal is completed subjectively in the individual through that bond of mystical and moral attachment which makes what Christ has done his own act and deed.
To them which are in Christ Jesus.--Those "who live and move and have their (spiritual) being" in Christ. To "have the Spirit of Christ" is a converse expression for the same idea. In the one case the believer is regarded as reaching upwards, as it were, through faith, and so incorporating and uniting himself with the Spirit of Christ; in the other case, the Spirit of Christ reaches downwards and infuses itself into the believer. This is the peculiar mysticism of the Apostle.
Who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.--These words are wanting in the foremost representatives of every group of authorities (except, perhaps, those which belong to the region of Syria), and must certainly be omitted. They have been brought in here fromRomans 8:4.
Verse 1. - There is then no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus.
Romans 8:2Verse 2. - For a new law - the law of the Spirit of life - is introduced into their being, by virtue of which they are freed from their old state of bondage to the law of sin and death.Romans 8:3Verse 3. - And this because of what God himself did for mankind inhis own Son, Christ, who, in our very flesh, and in behalf of mankind, did what man himself was powerless to do - triumphed over sin and condemned it.Romans 8:4Verse 4. - And in us too (united to him by faith, and having spiritually died and risen again with him) the requirement of the Law is fulfilled, so that it forfeits its claim to condemn us now; but only on this condition in ourselves, that we walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. . . .
Parallel Commentaries ...
Greek
Therefore,
ἄρα(ara)
Conjunction
Strong's 686:Then, therefore, since. Probably from airo; a particle denoting an inference more or less decisive.
[there is] now
νῦν(nyn)
Adverb
Strong's 3568:A primary particle of present time; 'now'; also as noun or adjective present or immediate.
no
Οὐδὲν(Ouden)
Adjective - Nominative Neuter Singular
Strong's 3762:No one, none, nothing.
condemnation
κατάκριμα(katakrima)
Noun - Nominative Neuter Singular
Strong's 2631:Punishment following condemnation, penal servitude, penalty. From katakrino; an adverse sentence.
for those who [are]
τοῖς(tois)
Article - Dative Masculine Plural
Strong's 3588:The, the definite article. Including the feminine he, and the neuter to in all their inflections; the definite article; the.
in
ἐν(en)
Preposition
Strong's 1722:In, on, among. A primary preposition denoting position, and instrumentality, i.e. A relation of rest; 'in, ' at, on, by, etc.
Christ
Χριστῷ(Christō)
Noun - Dative Masculine Singular
Strong's 5547:Anointed One; the Messiah, the Christ. From chrio; Anointed One, i.e. The Messiah, an epithet of Jesus.
Jesus.
Ἰησοῦ(Iēsou)
Noun - Dative Masculine Singular
Strong's 2424:Of Hebrew origin; Jesus, the name of our Lord and two other Israelites.
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NT Letters: Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation (Rom. Ro)