trials ; so that every thing eventually works together for their good, vs 18—28.
Paul had just shown that believers were distinguished by the indwell ing of the Spirit. Hence he infers the obligation to live according tc the Spirit, and to mortify the deeds of the body, v. 12. If they did this they should live, v. 13. Not only because, as previously argued, the Spirit is the source of life, but also because all who are led by the Spirit are the children of God. This is a new ground of security, v. 14. The reality of their adoption is proved, first, by their own filial feelings; as God's relation and feelings towards us are always the counterpart of ours towards him, v. 15. Secondly, by the testimony of the Spirit itself with our spirits, v. 16. If children, the inference is plain that believers shall be saved, for they are heirs. Salvation follows adoption, as, among men, heirship does sonship. They are joint-heirs with Jesus Christ, V. 17.
(\i is nowise inconsistent with their filial relation to God, nor with their safety, that believers are allowed to sufier in this world ; 1. Be- cause these sufferings are comparatively insignificant, vs. 18 — 23. 2. Because they are sustained by hop*. 3. Because the Spirit itself inter- cedes for them. In amplifying the first of these considerations, the comparative insignificancy of the sufferings of this present state, the apostle presents in contrast the unspeakable blessedness and glory which are in reserve for believers, v. 18. To elevate our conceptions of this glory, he represents, 1. The whole creation as looking and longing for its full manifestation, v. 19, &c. 2. All those who have now a foretaste of this blessedness, or the first-fruits of the Spirit, as joining in this sense of present wretchedness and earnest desire of the future good, v. 23.
These afflictions then are not only thus comparatively light in them- selves, but they are made still more tolerable by the constant and ele- vating anticipation of the future inheritance of the saints, vs. 24, 25. Ajid not only so, but the Spirit also sustains us by his intercessions, thus securing for us all the good we need, vs. 26 — 28. The salvation, then, of believers is secure, notwithstanding their sufferings, inasmuch as they are children, and are sustained and aided by the Holy Spirit.