In sublime contrast to the questions which have beset the argument since chapter 6 (6:1, 15; 7:1, 7, 13ff.), chapter 8 begins with a thunderous proclamation, “Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” Especially in 7:7–25, Paul’s blow-by-blow account of indwelling sin reminded one of a ringside announcer reporting a losing struggle. But the long and doleful report is now interrupted with ecstatic news. The contest has been decisively reversed. Sin and law may have been the overwhelming favorites, but victory belongs to “those who are in Christ Jesus.” The fires of hope had dwindled to a cold flame when reinforcements finally arrived.

Credit for the victory, as irrevocable as it was unexpected, belongs to the Spirit. Unforeseen and from the outside, like a…