Wednesday 27 May 2026
- Bible Book:
- Romans
For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. (v. 14)
Background
In this passage written to the Christian community in Rome, one of Paul’s key images is of Christians being children of God through the Holy Spirit. He contrasts the spirit of slavery, holding people in a state of fear to the spirit of adoption as children of God through the work of the Holy Spirit. He emphasises the importance of this father/child relationship by pointing out that Christians have been enabled to call God ‘Abba’ – a familiar term, more akin to 'Daddy'. They have a truly personal relationship. In consequence, Christians are not only heirs of God but joint heirs with Christ – an awesome position and responsibility.
At the beginning of the passage Paul talks about the followers of Jesus being in debt, though he gets a bit side-tracked and only comes back to it in the final verses. As recipients of God’s grace, as children of God, we are under a debt of obligation. We are not to take our status for granted or to be passive recipients, but we are to use our position and calling for the transformation of the world.
As co-heirs with Jesus we should be ready to suffer as he did so that, in the end, we may be glorified with him.
To Ponder:
- As you contemplate your position as a child of God, does this fill you with wonder, apprehension or both?
- In verse 13 Paul contrasts the flesh (the ways of the world) and the Spirit (the ways of God). It's a familiar motif in Paul’s writings. Do you find this a helpful contrast as you seek to lead a Christian lifestyle?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank you that through the Holy Spirit we have received adoption into your family and a close and empowering relationship with you. Grant us grace to live out this wonderful life to the full and to build your family, the Church. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Jennifer Potter
The Revd Jennifer Potter is a supernumerary minister living in the Croydon Circuit. She works as a part-time chaplain at the local MHA (Methodist Home for the Aged). She was previously a minister at Wesley’s Chapel in London.