Welcome to this SOAP Bible Study: Romans 8:5-11. In this study, we’ll explore life through the Spirit versus living by the flesh. Romans 8:5-11 highlights a powerful contrast between spiritual and worldly mindsets. It reveals how our focus determines our spiritual health and relationship with God.
Using the SOAP method—Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer—we’ll break down these verses to uncover their life-changing truths. You’ll learn how to align your thoughts and actions with the Spirit, leading to peace and eternal life.
Take time to meditate on the Scripture and invite God to reveal His Word to you. Let’s grow together in understanding His purpose for our lives!
Scripture
Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. The mind governed by the flesh is hostile to God; it does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. Those who are in the realm of the flesh cannot please God. You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ. But if Christ is in you, then even though your body is subject to death because of sin, the Spirit gives life because of righteousness. And if the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you, he who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies because of his Spirit who lives in you. (Romans 8:5-11 NIV)
Observation
Paul contrasts two ways of living: according to the flesh and according to the Spirit. A fleshly mindset leads to death, hostility to God, and separation from His will. On the other hand, a Spirit-led life brings peace, righteousness, and eternal hope. The indwelling Spirit transforms believers, giving life even in the midst of physical mortality. Through the Spirit, we are connected to the resurrection power of Christ.
Application
Examine your mindset: are you focused on worldly desires or spiritual priorities? Seek to surrender daily to the Spirit’s guidance. Let the peace and life of the Spirit shape your thoughts and actions. Remember, the same power that raised Jesus from the dead lives in you, enabling victory over sin and spiritual growth.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the gift of Your Spirit living within me. Help me to reject fleshly desires and focus on what pleases You. Teach me to walk in step with the Spirit, experiencing Your peace and power each day. Amen.
Final Insights
This SOAP Bible Study: Romans 8:5-11 reminds us to live by the Spirit, not the flesh. A fleshly mindset leads to death and separation from God. A Spirit-led life brings peace, righteousness, and eternal hope.
God’s Spirit empowers us to overcome sinful desires and live in alignment with His will. By focusing on the Spirit, we experience life and peace even in a broken world. The same Spirit that raised Jesus Christ from the dead dwells in us, giving us victory and purpose.
Reflect on your daily choices and surrender your thoughts to God’s Spirit. Walking in step with Him transforms your heart and actions. Keep relying on the Spirit for strength, peace, and guidance.
May this study inspire you to live fully in the Spirit and experience the abundant life God has for you!
SOAP Bible study is a method that involves Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer. It’s a way to delve deeper into the Bible and apply its teachings to one’s life. This SOAP study encourages reflection on God’s power and presence, even in the midst of uncertainty, and can serve as a reminder that He is always at work, bringing life and light into our lives.
