Definition: But now we are delivered from the law, that being dead wherein we were held; that we should serve in newness of spirit, and not [in] the oldness of the letter.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Romans 7:6. It’s a really important one about our relationship with sin and how we need to change. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that we’ve been freed from the rules and laws of the Old Testament (like the commandments given to Moses). It’s like being released from a heavy chain – we’re no longer bound by those restrictions. Now, we need to start living a new life, a life free from temptation and wrongdoing. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “But now we are delivered from the law…” - The law was set down by God for us – a set of rules that told us how to live. It was a guide for our behavior, but it could also lead us astray. “…that being dead wherein we were held…” – "Dead" means exhausted or without life. We were held by the law, meaning we felt like we had to follow it and be punished for breaking it. It was a constant struggle against temptation. “That we should serve in newness of spirit…” - This is the key part. “Newness of spirit” means a fresh start – a change in our hearts and minds. We need to actively choose to follow God’s will, not just go through the motions. It's about a genuine desire to be good. “…and not [in] the oldness of the letter.” - “Oldness” refers to the past – the traditions and practices that were in place long ago. The "letter" part is the specific rules and laws themselves. It’s saying we don't need to continue living according to those outdated rules anymore. We don’t need to keep trying to follow them, because they no longer apply to us. In simpler terms: Think of it like this: We were once so busy following the rules of the Old Testament that we were constantly struggling with temptation and sin. But God has given us a new way – a new spirit – that allows us to live a life pleasing to Him, without being bound by those old rules. What does this mean for us today? It means that we are capable of choosing good over bad, obedience over disobedience. It's a reminder that we need to constantly strive to become more like Christ – who is perfect and kind. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts in more detail? Give you an example of how this verse applies to your life?