Identification: Paul Identifies with the Struggles of His Listeners

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Romans 7:14–25

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Paul identifies with the struggles of common men and women. He knows we all can feel trapped (Rom. 7:14); confused (7:15); eager to do what is right (7:18); unable to follow through (7:18); an inward war (7:21–23); and frustration (7:24). Good leaders do not seek to impress, but to identify.

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The Law of Navigation: Paul Describes the Spirit-Filled Life

 

Romans 8:1–39

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After declaring that the law of the Spirit of life has set us free from the law of sin and death, Paul navigates the Spirit-filled life. He is the under-navigator, directing us to the Holy Spirit, the ultimate navigator.

 

This reveals the difference between Christian mentoring and the world’s mentoring. Christian mentors do not build a reliance on themselves, but point their protégés to God. The life Paul navigates is a life of liberty (Rom. 8:1–8), hope (8:9–15), and power (8:26–39). Observe how the Holy Spirit navigates life for us:

 

1. He intercedes and groans for us (Rom. 8:22, 23, 26, 27).

2. He directs and testifies to us (John 16:13; Acts 20:22, 23; Rom. 8:14).

3. He empowers and anoints for service (Acts 1:8; Rom. 8:28–37; 1 John 2:27).

4. He searches and enables us to discern (Rom. 8:26, 27; 1 Cor. 2:9–15).

5. He confirms and bears witness with us (Rom. 8:14–16; 1 John 5:5–9).

 

The Law of Empowerment: Jesus Touches Hearts First

 

Matthew 11:28–30

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Although Jesus puts His early disciples to work, He knows He has to touch their hearts before He asks for their hands. So He promises to give them rest.

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The word “rest” refers to an inward holiday—not a cessation of activity, but a whole new energy and motive. Many of us are more active on vacation than at work; what changes is our reason for activity. We feel energized on vacation because we want to do certain things. Jesus describes a new relationship that changes us on the inside. Note what He promises to give us:

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1. Rest: an inward rest, free from anxieties (v. 28)

2. Framework: a yoke, by which we are guided by a stronger partner (v. 29)

3. Gentle and humble leadership: an understanding leader who meets our needs (v. 29)

4. A manageable load: a system and workload that fits who we are (v. 30)