Romans 8:14

For This word points back to "through the Spirit" in Romans 8:13. That brief reference to the Divine Helper of the soul suggests and brings in the marvellous passage now following, down to Romans 8:27, in which the Holy Spirit's work is the primary subject throughout.

as many as are led, &c. The emphasis in this ver. is about equal on each clause; on the condition, (spirituality of will,) and the privilege, (son-ship). Onlythe spiritual are children of God; and the spiritual are nothing less thanchildren of God.

led As by their ruling principle. For illustration of the truth here referred to, see John 16:13, and Galatians 5:18; Galatians 5:22-23. The phrase is exactly parallel to "walk after the Spirit." The Galatian passage is enough to shew that St Paul intends not enthusiastic exaltation, but heart-subjection to the pure rule of God's will, in thought, word, and work; a subjection on the one hand perfectly voluntary in man, on the other hand perfectly due to the Divine Agent and Teacher.

sons On this sacred word, as used here, cp. John 1:12-13; 2 Corinthians 6:16-18; Galatians 3:26; Philippians 2:15; 1 John 3:1-2; 1 John 5:1; 1 John 5:4-5; and below.