Paul gives us a double promise in 8:1 & 34; that there is no legitimate condemnation for those who are in Christ. I need to understand the full extent of that promise, as well as its limitations. As a Christian, my eternity will be free from condemnation because of Jesus’ sacrifice for me. (thought I speak in the first person all Christians can claim this promise) As a Christian I am free to discard the guilt from my sin. However, I will still see the consequences of sin in this life. The full measure of the cross will not realized until I leave this physical body. Unless God provides a complete healing past drug abuse and other foolishness will still cause physical and mental problems. The criminal activity associated with past sins must still meet the civil punishment. The consequences of immoral acts will remain. People, well intentioned believers and malicious individuals, will still accuse and slander me. Paul encourages us to keep our focus on the eternal, and use that perspective to address the situations in the present.
Stuart
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