What are the two concepts in Romans 7:6 about serving?
Romans 7:6 contrasts two ways of serving: in newness of Spirit versus in oldness of the letter. The first is serving by the Holy Spirit’s guidance through the new nature; the second is serving under the law by the energy of the flesh, trying to satisfy old Adam, which is impossible.
Les teaches that Romans 7:6 presents two concepts of serving. One is the newness of Spirit, which means a whole new ball game for the believer who has received the new nature. The other is the oldness of the letter, where a person still tries to satisfy old Adam and keep the law. Les explains that old Adam may recognize right and wrong, but he knows he cannot keep the law and soon gives up. The new nature, however, under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, realizes the law cannot be kept by the energy of the flesh. When the Holy Spirit leads, guides, and directs, the law takes care of itself.
But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not in the oldness of the letter.
More Questions
What does it mean to serve in newness of spirit in Romans 7:6?
Serving 'in newness of spirit' means serving under the control of the Holy Spirit, under the control of the Word of God, and under the control of the Creator God Himself—not in the oldness of the letter or the law.