Verse 1
"Therefore" introduces a conclusion based on everything that Paul wrote from chapter 3 on, not just chapter 7, specifically Romans 7:6. He reaffirmed justification as the indispensable basis for sanctification. [Note: For three ways of interpreting the basis of no condemnation, see Chuck Lowe, "’There Is No Condemnation’ (Romans 8:1): But Why Not?" Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society 42:2 (June 1999):231-50.] A Christian must believe that he or she has permanent acceptance with God before that one will grow much in grace and godliness.
"Romans 3:20 shows the ’therefore’ of condemnation; but Romans 8:1 gives the ’therefore’ of no condemnation . . ." [Note: Wiersbe, 1:538.]
No condemnation is different from freedom from judgment (2 Corinthians 5:10). No condemnation (Gr. katakrima, penal servitude) means that God will never condemn us to an eternity separate from Himself for our sins. The reason is that the believer is in Christ Jesus. The Savior has suffered the consequences of our sins as our substitute. He will experience no condemnation, and we, as those He represents, will not either. Note the absolute force of this great promise. We are eternally secure!
"The Law condemns; but the believer has a new relationship to the Law, and therefore he cannot be condemned." [Note: Ibid.]
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