No Condemnation in Christ

Romans 8 is built off of Romans 6-7. The best description of flesh and spirit that defines the battle and its victory is Romans 7-8. Too many confuse the Holy Spirit today with the mind of the child of God. Walking after th reve spirit, which is what those who are in Christ Jesus do, defines the intent and sincere desire of the heart. Just like worship is a by-product of the heart rather than the outward expressions of the body, serving God with the mind is a description of the heart's priority and purpose. If we are His, then we are set apart for His purpose.

The heart's condition will indeed bear certain actions but the actions by themselves do not prove the heart's condition. They must be there so that no fruit is a sign of a heart problem but their presence may be the result of insincere conformity to outside pressures. This text is focued on the battle against sin and there, again, one can keep themselves from sinning so that no evil fruit is produced but the opportunity may not have been as open or the temptation as great. The heart that is fixed on satisfying the flesh cannot please God, even though they may keep themselves from satisfying wicked desires. The heart fixed on pleasing the holy God, is acceptable and not condemned, even though they may sin in the flesh. These two conditions are conditions of the heart and only God can know and judge it. If we are concerned more about what others think instead of seeking God's approval, you may be inclined to play the game of making good appearances, be approved and praised by men but whose heart is fixed on the flesh. That's our choice but God knows whether you walk after the Spirit or after the flesh.