By: Dr. Phil Spears
“For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and death.” – Romans 8:2
As believers, we often find ourselves torn between two competing realities: the law of the flesh and the law of the Spirit. This inner conflict is not new—Paul described it in vivid detail in Romans 7 and 8. But understanding the difference between these two laws is key to living a victorious Christian life.
The Law of the Flesh: A Life Bound by Sin
The law of the flesh, also known as the law of sin and death, is the principle that governs life apart from the Spirit of God. It's not merely about physical desires or moral failures; it is a deeper spiritual condition. It’s the natural state of humanity after the fall—bent inward, self-serving, and incapable of pleasing God.
Paul writes, “For I know that nothing good dwells in me, that is, in my flesh...” (Romans 7:18). This “law” works like gravity—it constantly pulls us down. Even when we want to do what is right, we find ourselves falling short. The law of the flesh cannot be overcome by willpower, religion, or moral behavior. It leads to condemnation, guilt, and ultimately spiritual death.
The Law of the Spirit: A Life Set Free in Christ
In contrast, the law of the Spirit is the governing principle of the new life we receive through faith in Jesus Christ. It’s not a set of rules but a living, breathing relationship with the Holy Spirit. This law empowers us to live in freedom, righteousness, and peace.
Romans 8:1-2 proclaims, “There is therefore now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free...”
Where the flesh demands, the Spirit empowers. Where the flesh accuses, the Spirit assures. Where the flesh binds, the Spirit liberates.
Key Differences
| Law of the Flesh | Law of the Spirit |
|---|---|
| Leads to death and condemnation | Leads to life and freedom |
| Operates through self-effort and desire | Operates through grace and the Holy Spirit |
| Focused on pleasing self | Focused on pleasing God |
| Produces guilt and shame | Produces peace and assurance |
| Powerless to save | Brings salvation through Christ |
Walking in the Spirit
Living under the law of the Spirit doesn’t mean we’ll never struggle with sin again—but it means we no longer fight alone. The Spirit helps us put to death the deeds of the body (Romans 8:13) and gives us the desire and power to walk in obedience.
So how do we live by the law of the Spirit?
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Abide in Christ – Stay connected to Jesus through prayer, the Word, and worship.
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Listen to the Holy Spirit – Be sensitive to His conviction and leading.
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Renew Your Mind – Let Scripture reshape your thinking (Romans 12:2).
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Walk in Community – Surround yourself with fellow believers who encourage spiritual growth.
Final Thoughts
The law of the flesh is a reality we must recognize, but not a destiny we must accept. In Christ, we are free—free to live, love, and serve under the empowering law of the Spirit. It’s not about striving harder but surrendering deeper.
“If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.” – Galatians 5:25
Let us choose daily to walk not according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit, bearing fruit that glorifies God and brings life to others.
www.drphilsppears.com
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