January 18, 2009

Paul encourages us in three ways in this passage. First, he reminds us that the Holy Spirit – God himself, in all his power – indwells us, is near to us. Second, he points to Christ's resurrection to remind us just what power this Spirit has. Finally, Christ's own resurrection is promised to us—both in our future resurrection and glorification, and also in power and strength and joy as we persevere in this life and daily encounter our mortality.