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Romans 8:4

KJV

That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Read it in context Life in Christ
Start reading at Romans 8:1 (Romans 8:1 to Romans 8:11). An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.

Paul begins with those in Christ Jesus who walk after the Spirit, contrasting flesh and Spirit and connecting the indwelling Spirit with life.

  1. 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
  2. 8:2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.
  3. 8:3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:
  4. 8:4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
  5. 8:5 For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit.
  6. 8:6 For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace.
  7. 8:7 Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be.
  8. 8:8 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.
  9. 8:9 But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
  10. 8:10 And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.
  11. 8:11 But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.

Who

What

When

Where

How

Cited: Romans 8:1, Romans 8:11, Romans 1:7, Romans 6:3, Romans 8:9, Romans 8:13, Romans 8:17

Who wrote it, and how we know

Paul the apostle Named in Scripture
What Scripture saysPaul names himself in the opening verse, and Tertius names himself as the scribe. Romans 1:1Romans 16:22
Early traditionUniform tradition names Paul.

Related passages

Cross references from CrossReferences-org (CC BY 4.0).

Macro-Structure

See how this passage fits the chapter and the book.

Romans

Paul addresses the saints at Rome (Romans 1:7). Read this outline alongside his discussion of baptism into Christ and newness of life (Romans 6:3–4).

Romans 1:7 Romans 6:3 Romans 6:4

Opening and theme
Romans 1:1–17

FocusThe gospel and faith

Connection to the wholePaul introduces his calling and his desire to visit Rome, then announces the gospel as the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes.
interpretation
The need for righteousness
Romans 1:18–3:20

FocusSin and accountability

Connection to the wholePaul describes human sin and God’s judgment, bringing Jews and Gentiles under the charge of sin and establishing humanity’s need.
interpretation
God’s provision in Christ
Romans 3:21–5:21

FocusFaith, grace, and reconciliation

Connection to the wholePaul explains righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, uses Abraham as an example, and contrasts Adam’s offense with Christ’s obedience.
interpretation
Newness of life
Romans 6:1–8:39 You are here · 8:4

FocusBaptism, service, and life in the Spirit

Connection to the wholePaul rejects continuing in sin, recalls baptism into Christ’s death, discusses sin and the law, and describes walking after the Spirit and the hope of glory.
interpretation
Israel and the Gentiles
Romans 9:1–11:36

FocusPromise, faith, and mercy

Connection to the wholePaul considers Israel’s place in God’s purpose, the response of faith, and mercy toward Jews and Gentiles. He warns Gentile believers against boasting and urges them to continue in God’s goodness.
interpretation
Living out God’s mercies
Romans 12:1–15:13

FocusService, love, and mutual care

Connection to the wholePaul moves to offering oneself to God, serving others, loving one’s neighbour, and receiving one another while seeking peace and edification.
interpretation
Ministry and closing
Romans 15:14–16:27

FocusPlans, greetings, and final exhortation

Connection to the wholePaul explains his ministry and travel plans, commends and greets fellow workers, warns against divisions, and closes with praise to God.
interpretation

Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.

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