We who have the Spirit. This is Paul's second reason (see Romans 8:18). This also points to the glorious future! As the first of God's gifts. APARCHE - FIRST-PORTION (Jewish term for anything set apart to God before the remainder could be used). The Spirit is the guarantee that we will receive everything God has for us. We also groan. We have experienced this new life in the Spirit, and this makes us want to escape from this life and rise triumphant in our new bodies. Therefore, we groan as we wait in hope. And set out whole being free. Only after death is destroyed, can we be totally free. Compare Philippians 3:21; 1 Corinthians 15:51; 2 Corinthians 5:2.

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Old Testament