“Therefore, brethren, we are debtors” (v. 12). Why are we debtors? The apostle Paul uses the word “Therefore,” not only to link the verses directly previous, but all that he has written thus far.

We are debtors because:

• We have sinned (cf. 3:23).
• As a result we have died spiritually (cf. 5:12).
• Therefore, Christ died for us, that we might live, and become free from the law (cf. 6:23; 7:4).
• Now there is no condemnation for those in Christ (cf. 8:1).

We are debtors to “live according to the spirit,” not “according to the flesh.” Spiritual death comes by heeding the things of the flesh. Eternal life is spiritual. Therefore, life cannot be found in carnal things. In order to live according to the spirit, we must be led by what is spiritual, i.e. “the Spirit of God.” Those who are led by the Spirit of God have received the spirit of adoption. Verification of said adoption comes when our spirit has done what the Spirit of God has revealed as necessary to receive the adoption. As sons of God we are heirs of God, and will be given the promises. However, these are conditional. We must “suffer with [Christ], that we may also be glorified together.” Let us always recognize our immense debt, and live accordingly!