The presence of the Spirit in the writings of Saint Paul

Abstract

The role and meaning of the use of the term "Spirit" in Paul is a matter of debate. There are authors who deny it practically, while others understand it as main in the thought of the Apostle. Undoubtedly, the theme is closely linked to the Christological, but with a strong community (ecclesial) and eschatological connotation.
In 1 Corinthians the theme appears linked to the weakest and most despised of the community before those who believed themselves to be possessors of spiritual spectacularity. In Galatians it contrasts with weakness. It indicates the strength of the community in the middle of the world and its elements that are hostile to it (“the flesh”). In Romans, the newness of Christ is unattainable without grace, the gift of the spirit, which gives full freedom to those who "are in Christ"; He is the one who makes us "walk" according to God. The great difficulties of extreme violence do not prevent the union of love with Christ. The spirit is the expression of a new creation that has begun, in which a world manifests itself according to God's plan.