From Carnal to Spiritual (Part 5): Walking in the Spirit Daily

From Carnal to Spiritual (Part 5): Walking in the Spirit Daily

Before we continue, let’s take a moment to look back at where we’ve been. In Part 1, we saw the difference between the carnal mind and the spiritual mind. The carnal mind is natural to all of us—it’s how we think before we come to Christ, and it remains with us unless we renew it. In Part 2, we learned that renewal requires forsaking. We cannot hold on to old thoughts and expect new life. The Word of God must replace what we once believed. Then in Part 3, we were reminded that spiritual growth is a journey. It’s not about being perfect but about moving forward. Every step matters. And in Part 4, we saw that renewal is shaped by doctrine. The mind is not renewed by emotion or experience, but by truth—truth rightly divided and received with meekness.

Now we come to Part 5, and we begin to see how this renewed mind is lived out. It’s not just something we understand—it’s something we walk in. Paul writes, “If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.” (Galatians 5:25). This is not a once-off decision. It is a daily walk. It is a way of thinking, a way of responding, a way of living. The spiritual mind is not just for study—it is for life.

From Carnal to Spiritual (Part 4): Doctrine Shapes Renewal

From Carnal to Spiritual (Part 4): Doctrine Shapes Renewal

Before we press forward, let us pause and reflect on the ground we’ve already covered. In Part 1, we explored the stark contrast between the carnal and spiritual mind—the one governed by fleshly reasoning, the other by divine truth. We saw that the spiritual mind is not natural, but cultivated, and that the believer is called to intentional renewal. In Part 2, we learned that renewal is not passive; it requires forsaking. Old thought patterns must be abandoned, not merely suppressed. The mind must be emptied of error before it can be filled with truth. Then in Part 3, we were reminded that this journey is not about perfection, but progression. God does not demand flawlessness, but faithfulness. The spiritual mind is measured not by how far we’ve come, but by whether we are moving forward—renewed day by day, growing in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Now, in Part 4, we turn our attention to the substance of that renewal. What exactly renews the mind? What shapes the spiritual understanding of the believer? The answer is not found in emotion, experience, or even sincerity—it is found in doctrine. Not just any doctrine, but sound doctrine, rightly divided, rooted in the Word of God and revealed through the apostle Paul for the Church today. “That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine…” (Ephesians 4:14). The renewed mind is not a blank canvas—it is a built structure. It has a foundation, a framework, and a finish. And that structure is doctrinal.

Doctrine and Discernment (Intro): Balancing the Word

Doctrine and Discernment (Intro): Balancing the Word

Holding Truth and Heart Together

Truth matters. Grace matters. But too often, believers lean hard in one direction—either guarding doctrine with such precision that they forget the people it's meant to serve, or embracing relational kindness so freely that biblical clarity gets blurred. This series is an invitation to walk in both. Not one or the other. Both.

In Part 1, we’ll meet the Bereans of Acts 17:11—known not for their credentials, but for their consistency. They tested everything by the Word, daily and with care. It’s a picture of objective discernment, where conviction is built on Scripture, not assumption.

In Part 2, we’ll step into the tenderness of Romans 14, where Paul urges believers not to quarrel over disputable matters. Instead, he teaches us to honor the conscience, walk gently with the weak, and build each other up in love. It’s not compromise—it’s compassion.

Then in Part 3, we’ll bring it all together. Because maturity isn’t found in choosing between truth and heart—it’s found when we let Scripture shape both. That kind of balance produces believers who hold fast to what’s right but walk gently with those still growing.

In the next post we’ll start things off by walking alongside the Bereans in Acts 17—ordinary believers who searched the Scriptures daily with focus and humility. But this isn’t just about studying with precision. It’s about learning how clear doctrine can shape our love and deepen our walk with others. If you’ve ever wondered how to hold firm to truth while staying soft toward people, Part 1 will steady your convictions and stir your heart.

From Expectation to Dispensation: Peter’s Prophetic Shift

From Expectation to Dispensation: Peter’s Prophetic Shift

There’s a subtle but powerful dispensational insight in the way Peter’s letters frame the coming of the Lord. At first glance, 1 Peter and 2 Peter might seem like spiritual bookends—both speaking to suffering saints with hope—but a closer look reveals something far deeper: a prophetic shift, one that traces the unfolding of God’s plan from Kingdom expectation to grace dispensation.

“But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.” —1 Peter 4:7 (KJV)

In 1 Peter, written during a time when the offer of the Kingdom was still fresh in Israel’s memory, Peter urged the Kingdom believers to live with urgency. His words echo the question posed in Acts 1:6, “Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?” The apostles anticipated the imminent return of Christ in glory—to reign as King and fulfill the promises of Israel’s restoration. But Jesus answered, “It is not for you to know the times or the seasons…” (Acts 1:7)—a subtle indication that something else was about to unfold.

As Israel’s national rejection of their Messiah deepened, that Kingdom expectation was deferred. Not abandoned—but postponed. And in that divine pause, God revealed the mystery kept secret since the world began: the dispensation of the grace of God, entrusted to Paul for the Gentiles (Ephesians 3:1-6). A new heavenly calling emerged—the Body of Christ—not born of Law, lineage, or national covenant, but by faith alone, through grace alone.

Fast forward to 2 Peter, and the tone shifts.

Self-Examination – The Grace of Testing Ourselves (Part 7)

Self-Examination – The Grace of Testing Ourselves (Part 7)

We’ve walked a measured path through Scripture’s sobering portrayals of proving and reprobation—a journey that began at the Scale of the Mind, where we saw the internal tension between approval and rejection playing out in the believer’s thought life. We paused to explore the Greek foundations of these terms in dokimazō and adokimos, finding that our spiritual health hinges on whether we’re proven true or found wanting. We then entered the Season of Probation, that God-given window where we are weighed—not for condemnation, but for correction.

The study led us next into the vital nature of Love That Discerns—a love that shields against deception by rooting itself in truth. From there, we heard God’s call to Be Renewed and Be Disciplined, recognizing that both renewal and loving chastening are God’s tools to prevent spiritual collapse. Then came the chilling descent traced in The Downward Spiral, where unchecked drift leads from disinterest to depravity. All of it has led here—not to a checkpoint, but to a conclusion, a call to pause, reflect, and weigh ourselves. Self-examination, then, is not an optional devotional practice, but the very grace that helps us avoid becoming reprobate.

But what is self-examination, really? It’s not morbid introspection or an exercise in self-loathing. It is the Spirit-led act of looking into the Word—God’s mirror—and inviting it to shine into our affections, convictions, and conduct. It is where conscience meets revelation, where we test not only our beliefs but the spiritual fruit that results from them.

The Power of Transforming Grace Seen Through Our Doctrine

The Power of Transforming Grace Seen Through Our Doctrine

In Paul’s short but profound letter to Philemon, we see a real-life application of the gospel’s transformative power. It is a letter that does not merely teach doctrine but demonstrates how doctrine must be lived. Through the example of Onesimus, Philemon, and Paul, we are called to elevate truth above self, allowing Christ within us to reign above every carnal impulse—above grudges, revenge, ownership, greed, lusts, and the pride of life.

Onesimus: A Life Transformed

Onesimus was once unprofitable—both spiritually and practically. A runaway slave who likely stole from his master, he embodied the fallen nature of man: seeking self-will above truth, circumstance above faith. But when he encountered Paul in prison, everything changed. By the grace of God, he was begotten in bonds—he got saved and regenerated anew in Christ. His transformation wasn’t just a personal improvement; it redefined his entire identity. He was no longer just Philemon’s servant; he became a brother in the Lord.

This is the reality of salvation. We are not just improved versions of our former selves—we are made new. Onesimus, once a thief and a fugitive, became “profitable” through Christ, Phm.1:11; Tit.3:8. Not because he gained worldly wealth or influence, but because the gospel infused him with purpose. Like Onesimus, we must recognise that transformation in Christ is not about external change but about internal renewal.

Philemon: A Call to Forgiveness

Philemon had every legal right to punish Onesimus. The world would say that justice demands retribution. Carnal nature whispers: Let him suffer. Teach him a lesson. Own your rights. But Paul makes a different appeal—not based on law, but on grace.

The dispensation of God which is given to me for you

The dispensation of God which is given to me for you

The Mystery Revealed

"Whereof I am made a minister, according to the dispensation of God which is given to me for you, to fulfil the word of God; Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints." (Colossians 1:25-26, KJV)

Throughout the ages, God has worked through distinct dispensations, each revealing His purpose at its appointed time. The passage above highlights an incredible truth—Paul was entrusted with a unique dispensation, one that had never before been revealed. It was a mystery, hidden from generations past, but now made manifest.

This means that the gospel and doctrine given to Paul were not simply a continuation of what had come before. They were not an extension of the kingdom promises given to Israel, nor were they a repackaging of the message preached by the twelve apostles. Paul received something entirely new—a gospel of grace that was distinct from Israel’s prophetic program.

A Brand-New Gospel and Doctrine

Many today fail to recognise the vital distinction between the earthly ministry of Jesus to Israel and the heavenly revelation of Christ to Paul. Jesus’ earthly ministry was directed to the Jews:

"I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel." (Matthew 15:24, KJV)

Honouring Scripture Over Emotion: Learning from Paul’s Example

Honouring Scripture Over Emotion: Learning from Paul’s Example

In moments of provocation, how do we respond? Do we let our emotions dictate our actions, or do we submit ourselves to the authority of God's Word? Paul’s encounter with the high priest in Acts 23:2-5 offers a powerful example of humility, self-control, and unwavering reverence for Scripture—an attitude we should value and imitate.

Paul’s Immediate Reaction

When struck unjustly, Paul’s first response was sharp: “God shall smite thee, thou whited wall” (Acts 23:3). His words carried righteous indignation, exposing the hypocrisy of Ananias, who violated the law he claimed to uphold. Yet, when informed that he had spoken against the high priest, Paul did not defend his initial reaction or justify his anger. Instead, he immediately submitted to the truth of Scripture, quoting Exodus 22:28: “Thou shalt not revile the gods, nor curse the ruler of thy people.”

This swift correction is remarkable. Paul could have clung to his frustration, arguing that Ananias was corrupt and undeserving of honour. But he did not. His commitment to God’s Word outweighed his personal feelings, reminding us that Scripture, not emotion, must govern our responses.

What Lessons Can We Learn From This

Unveiling the Mystery of 1 Corinthians 2:7

Unveiling the Mystery of 1 Corinthians 2:7

"But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory." — 1 Corinthians 2:7

What Is the Mystery?

Biblically, a mystery is not unknowable, but previously concealed and now revealed. The wisdom Paul speaks of is God’s hidden plan of salvation, ordained before time began yet kept secret until revealed through him. Some aspects of this mystery include:

• The incarnation and resurrection of Christ (1 Timothy 3:16).
• The inclusion of Gentiles in salvation (Ephesians 3:6).
• The believer’s union with Christ (Colossians 1:26-27).
• The future glory prepared for God’s people (Romans 16:25).

Paul speaks of God’s wisdom in a mystery, a truth hidden for ages but now fully revealed through Christ and His work on the cross. This mystery is the foundation of our doctrine, a revelation that goes beyond worldly wisdom and calls believers into a deeper understanding of God’s eternal plan.

Why Was the Mystery Hidden?

What Does It Mean to 'Not Be Under the Law?'

What Does It Mean to 'Not Be Under the Law?'

Paul’s teaching that believers are “not under the law, but under grace” (Romans 6:14) has often been misunderstood, sometimes leading people to believe they have no moral obligations or restrictions whatsoever. But the reality is far richer. To truly grasp this concept, we must explore four key aspects: freedom from the Mosaic Law as a means of justification, walking in the Spirit through the Word of God, avoiding legalism and condemnation, and understanding the common misconceptions about the law.

Righteousness by faith, not by law

First, being free from the law means grace believers are no longer required to follow the Mosaic Law to attain righteousness. Paul explains this beautifully in Galatians 3:24-25: “Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster.” Before Christ, the law served as a guide, teaching people about sin and their need for salvation. Its purpose was not to save, but to point them to Christ. However, now that Christ has come, believers now live under grace through faith in Him, not under a rigid law system for righteousness. Romans 6:14 clearly states: “For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.” This doesn’t mean that sin is now acceptable, but rather that righteousness is a result of faith, not legal adherence. Through His death and resurrection, Christ fulfilled the law so that believers could be declared righteous through His finished work, not through personal effort.

May God Have Mercy on Your Soul: An Expression of Ignorance

May God Have Mercy on Your Soul: An Expression of Ignorance

As I watched a funeral on TV, I heard the minister say the following, "Rest in peace <person's name>, may God have mercy on your soul." Those words stuck with me and the more I thought about them, the more I was struck by the absolute ignorance embedded in this statement—an ignorance that disregards the foundational truth of the gospel and the finished work of the cross of Christ. It revealed how tradition and empty expressions continue to be spoken without thought, maintaining a cycle of religious negligence rather than biblical accuracy. This phrase, like others that I list at the end of the post**, have become a customary utterance, mindlessly repeated without questioning its meaning or validity in light of God’s revealed truth. Seeing this, I felt it necessary to bring attention to not only this statement but others also, that persist as vain customs, promoting human imagination rather than biblical reality. Words carry weight, and when they contradict the truth of Scripture, they must be identified and dismissed as meaningless rhetoric—mere traditions of men that veil the absolute authority of God’s Word. 

This article serves as a call to recognize such errors and return to the certainty of sound doctrine, particularly the gospel of God's grace as taught in Paul’s epistles.

The Hollow Tradition of a Fruitless Expression

"May God have mercy on your soul."

Understanding the Gap: The Mystery Period in God’s Plan

Understanding the Gap: The Mystery Period in God’s Plan

Throughout history, biblical prophecy has painted a clear picture of God’s plan for Israel. From the coming of the Messiah to the promised kingdom, prophecy repeatedly highlighted the sequence of events that were expected to unfold. However, what was never foreseen or mentioned by the prophets was an intervening period—a hidden mystery revealed only through the Apostle Paul. This period, often referred to as the "gap," marks a unique dispensation in which the body of Christ operates under grace, distinct from Israel’s prophetic timeline.

The Gap: A Mystery Kept Secret

One of the most remarkable aspects of the gap period is its complete absence from Old Testament prophecy. If one studies scripture from Adam through the life of Jesus and even into the early chapters of Acts, there is no mention of this time period. The prophetic writings consistently detail Israel’s future, outlining the coming of their Messiah, a time of tribulation, and the eventual establishment of the millennial kingdom.

Had Israel accepted their Messiah, Jesus would have returned, the tribulation would have taken place, and the kingdom would have been established as prophesied (Isaiah 9:6-7; Daniel 9:26). In such a scenario, the grace period—the gap—would never have existed. Yet, because Israel rejected their Messiah, the fulfillment of prophecy was delayed (John 1:11; Luke 19:14). Because of Israel’s unbelief, God ushered in a completely unforeseen era: the mystery period, during which the body of Christ operates under grace (Romans 11:11; Acts 13:46). This grace dispensation was never revealed in prophecy but was kept secret by God (Romans 16:25; Ephesians 3:3-5; Colossians 1:25-26). In this new dispensation, salvation was extended to the Gentiles apart from Israel’s prophetic program (Romans 11:25; Colossians 1:26).

Twelve Key Topics within the Curriculum of Pauls Grace Doctrine

Twelve Key Topics within the Curriculum of Pauls Grace Doctrine

The motivation for this examination of Paul's teachings stems from 1 Timothy 1:3-5, in which Paul directs Timothy to ensure that only sound doctrine is taught, avoiding any other doctrines. Paul emphasizes the need to avoid distractions such as fables and endless genealogies, focusing instead on godly edification in faith. He highlights the ultimate goal of his commandment—charity out of a pure heart, a good conscience, and faith unfeigned. This charge reflects the importance of adhering to the grace and mystery doctrine entrusted to Timothy during his years of following Paul.

Additionally, Paul affirms Timothy's deep understanding of his teachings in 2 Timothy 3:10: "But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience." This declaration underscores that Timothy not only understood Paul’s doctrine but also observed how Paul lived it out in his life, making him a trusted steward of these teachings.

In light of these foundational scriptures, I was inspired to compile an overview of the key topics or principles of Paul’s grace doctrine. These 12 points provide clarity and encouragement, serving as a guide to understand the fuller doctrine of Paul that Timothy so faithfully upheld among the believers in Ephesus, ensuring that their faith remained unwavering and true.

Let’s delve into the twelve key topics contained in the full curriculum of Paul’s epistles, confirmed by scripture from our trusted King James Bible.

Rightly Divide to Understand Salvation in the Grace vs. the Kingdom Programs

Rightly Divide to Understand Salvation in the Grace vs. the Kingdom Programs

Introduction: A Common Misunderstanding About Salvation

In discussions about salvation, many well-meaning Christians, who do not rightly divide the word of truth, fall into the trap of mixing different biblical instructions intended for distinct audiences and periods. This misunderstanding often stems from combining teachings from Jesus’ earthly ministry with those found in the Apostle Paul’s epistles, which outline the gospel for the present dispensation of grace. Here is a summary of this prevalent but doctrinally inconsistent viewpoint:

1. Confession for Salvation: Based on Matthew 10:32 and Luke 12:8, it is argued that public confession is required for salvation, along with faith.
2. Repentance from Sin: Verses like Luke 5:32 and Luke 24:47 are used to emphasize that turning away from sin (repentance) is a prerequisite for salvation.
3. Water Baptism: Passages such as Mark 16:16 and Acts 2:38 are interpreted to mean that water baptism is necessary for the remission of sins and salvation.
4. Endurance for Salvation: Matthew 24:13 is cited to suggest that believers must endure until the end of their lives to secure salvation.
5. Peter’s Message at Pentecost: Acts 2:38 is taken as universal guidance for salvation, combining repentance and baptism for the remission of sins.

While this view appears comprehensive, it mistakenly blends requirements from Israel’s kingdom program under the Old Covenant with the grace program revealed through Paul. Sadly, these misunderstandings place undue burdens on believers and obscures the simple, liberating truth of salvation by grace through faith alone. With this overview established, let us analyse these points to uncover what is doctrinally wrong, why these interpretations are inconsistent with the current dispensation, and what the correct biblical teaching is. Rightly dividing the word of truth brings clarity, freedom, and a deeper understanding of God’s plan.

Verse Study: Galatians 2:20-21

Verse Study: Galatians 2:20-21 

Having posted the “fill in the blanks” puzzle yesterday, let’s actually study out this passage in Gal.2:20-21 and find out what Paul is teaching us.

Gal 2:20-21  I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.  [21]  I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live;

This is a statement of faith. Though we have never experienced the actual cross ourselves, we must reckon that we too have died to this flesh life, even though we continue to live in it. You might live, but your mind needs to believe that you died with Christ. You must come to reckon it as true. How do we do that? Stare at the phrase. Study it out: cross referencing this with similar verses Paul writes to gain deeper understanding of it. Meditate upon it. Let it sink into your mind until it become as real and accepted as the physical objects around you. When we grow in knowledge of the truth it will start to naturally manifest in you and you will start to bear the fruit of that knowledge through your mind becoming renewed to the truth. 

Romans 8:1-4: No condemnation

Romans 8:1-4 KJV - No condemnation

Romans 8:1-4 KJV

[1]  There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

[2]  For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.

[3]  For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:

[4]  That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Therefore

The word ‘therefore’ indicates that what is about to be written is based on something that preceded it. Thus, to fully understand what Paul is about to say about ‘no condemnation’, one must be aware of what was discussed before this statement. The ‘no condemnation’ is applicable only to those who are ‘in Christ’, and ‘who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit’. Thus, to determine what is meant by ‘in Christ’, we must have knowledge of Romans 1 to 5 concerning justification, which seals us ‘in Christ’, and we must have knowledge of Romans 6 to 7 concerning sanctification, which teaches us how to walk after the Spirit. Simply put, if you do not have a knowledge and understanding of Romans 1 to 7, this verse will be void of truth and value in your life. When you come to the word ‘therefore’, it is an important indicator to make sure you are well versed with the information that precedes that statement.

No condemnation

People's imaginations concerning 'receiving the Holy Spirit' (Example #5)

People's imaginations concerning 'receiving the Holy Spirit' (Example #5)

This post is written for the sole purpose of illustrating the ignorance of sound doctrine on social media these days. My aim is to emphasize the absolute necessity of studying the Bible for oneself and seeking answers from the source instead of relying on imaginations or opinions given by people, who may be sincere, but are as ignorant as the one who asked the question to start with. 

So, let's begin by stating the question that was asked in the beginning of a social media thread,

QUESTION: "How can Christians catch the Spirit?"

Below is another answer that was supplied to this question on social media. The person might be sincere in their reply, but sincerity can still be wrong and misleading, as is the case with this answer which misinterprets the proper context of scripture. I add comments as to why the answer is wrong and what the Word of God actually says about it.

False Imagination #5

The gift of the Holy Ghost is promised by God if you obey Him according to Acts 2:38-39, which says, “Repent everyone of you and be baptized in the name of JESUS for the remission of your sins and you shall receive the GIFT OF THE HOLY GHOST. For this is for you and your children and to all that are a far off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.”

My comments:

Understanding the Context of our Dispensation and Hebrews (Video)

Understanding the Context of our Dispensation and Hebrews (Video)

This video is a snipping of the first 15-min of the source video from Paul Lucas. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vxejSngx1aU

The reason for posting this short clip is because what Paul talks about in the first 15-min informs one very nicely of the context of our dispensation in relation to God's full redemption plan, including that of Israel. I wanted to bring to your attention why it is so important that we learn to rightly divide the word of truth, in order to understand and interpret the Bible correctly and in context.

I also encourage you to click on the link below and watch the entire video for a more detailed insight into the book of Hebrews, and how we should be interpreting this book in the context of Israel's program.

Interpreting the Bible is of critical importance to grow up in our faith and in the knowledge of God and His redemption plan. The Word of God needs to be correctly understood, in a dispensational context, rightly dividing between grace and mystery and law and prophecy, 2Tim.2:15.

Source video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kx6HVVUulnA

People's imaginations concerning 'receiving the Holy Spirit' (Example #4)

People's imaginations concerning 'receiving the Holy Spirit' (Example #4)

This post is written for the sole purpose of illustrating the ignorance of sound doctrine on social media these days. My aim is to emphasize the absolute necessity of studying the Bible for oneself and seeking answers from the source instead of relying on imaginations or opinions given by people, who may be sincere, but are as ignorant as the one who asked the question to start with. 

So, let's begin by stating the question that was asked in the beginning of a social media thread,

QUESTION: "How can Christians catch the Spirit?"

Below is the fourth of a few answers that were supplied to this question on social media. They appear to be sincere but are unfortunately completely false or have parts that are from the imaginations of men who have not sought out the truth in the Word of God. I add comments as to why the answer is wrong and what the Word of God actually says about it.

False Imagination #4

Christians can get the Holy Spirit by letting the love of God shine in their life each day. Love is key. Show love to everyone and the spirit of God will dwell in you!

My comments:

Understanding the Process of Salvation in Romans (Part 12 - Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?)

Start this lesson series here: 
Understanding the Process of Salvation in Romans (Part 1)

Understanding the Process of Salvation in Romans (Part 12 - Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?)

2Cor.6:11-13  O ye Corinthians, our mouth is open unto you, our heart is enlarged.  (12)  Ye are not straitened in us, but ye are straitened in your own bowels.  (13)  Now for a recompence in the same, (I speak as unto my children,) be ye also enlarged.

In the passage above, Paul is urging the Corinthians to be more open and receptive to his message. He expresses his affection and fatherhood towards them, desiring to bless and educate them, but points out that their hearts are closed and restricting them from fully receiving his teachings. Paul emphasizes that the restriction is not from his side but from their own hearts and attitude, and he encourages them to open up and respond to the love and openness he has shown, so that he can speak to them without limitations and have them receive the truth he could provide.

We have come to a point in Romans where this same open heartedness and faith is necessary to fully benefit from what Paul is going to teach us. We are about to step up in spirit. We are about to go into deeper spiritual truth. We are going to start receiving information that requires our obedience and our commitment if we are to advance in our Christian walk and in our faith. Is your heart enlarged? Make sure that in no way are you restricted in your reception of the inspired truth that Paul is about to give.

Abounding grace

We have spent time in Romans 1 to 5 concerning justification, the first part of salvation, and utterly saturated in God’s grace. If it were not for God’s grace, and the work of Christ done through grace, we as believers, would have no chance to be recipients of salvation. All the way through Romans 1 to 5, Paul has mentioned the grace of God in the gospel of His Son and our absolute dependency upon it. As a reminder, here are the verses concerning ‘grace’ in Romans 5,