Romans: Rooted in Jesus, United to Christ

Have you ever had an oppressive boss? Most of us have. I had one who constantly criticized our work as a painting crew. We were never fast enough, our lines never sharp enough, and our clean up always subpar. We would spend all day in a newly constructed home, without air conditioning, sweating and painting. Our boss would come in, spend fifteen minutes, paint a door and tell us, “see that, a ten minute door.” Then he’d demean our performance and get back in his air conditioned truck and move on. Not the inspiring moment he intended for sure. 

When I changed companies, working for a new crew, my boss was encouraging, championing my work, even giving me more responsibility. It was such a unique experience, especially when contrasted with my former boss. Whenever my new boss would walk in though, initially I’d find myself emotionally prepping for criticism, only to be surprised with kindness and encouragement. There were moments of correction, but they were motivating.

In our text Sunday, Paul lays a foundation of what it means to be united to Christ and his life giving salvation. He wants us to see that we’ve been taken out of Adam’s family, dominated by sin and death, and placed in Christ’s family with freedom from our old oppressive master. His conclusion, do not let sin have dominion over you. You don’t have to obey your passions any more. 

Join us as we consider the life of freedom given us in our participation of Christ!