As we near the conclusion of the first half of the epistle Paul summarizes a number of vintage ideas. From the immediate context he continues the themes of liberation from slavery (vv. 2, 21), resurrection (vv. 11, 23), sonship and adoption (vv. 14–17, 19, 21, 23), and the role of the Spirit. From earlier portions of Romans he reintroduces the themes of creation (1:20, 25; 8:19, 21), futility (1:21; 8:20), and likeness (1:23; 8:29). The two dominant themes, however, are suffering and glory (see v. 17). That which humanity lost through Adam’s bid to usurp God’s authority (1:22–23), and which resulted in a “depraved mind” (1:28), has been restored in Christ. The firstfruits of this restoration are already in evidence among believers, and they guarantee salvation’s glorious culmination.

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