But there is this difference between Rom. v. and viii., that vi. and vii. lie between; and when the soul has traveled practically through these latter, and learns how to apply their profound and precious teaching to the great questions of indwelling sin and the law, then it is in a better state, though, most assuredly, not in a higher standing. We repeat, and with emphasis, the words "_traveled practically_." For it must be even so, if we would really enter into these holy mysteries according to God. It is easy to talk about being "dead to sin" and "dead to the law"--easy to see these things written in Rom. vi. and vii.--easy to grasp, in the intellect, the mere theory of these things. But the question is, have we made them our own--have they been applied practically to our souls by the power of the Holy Ghost? Are they livingly exhibited in our ways to the glory of Him who, at such a cost to Himself, has brought us into such a marvelous place of blessing and privilege? It is much to be feared that there is a vast amount of merely intellectual traffic in these deep and precious mysteries of our most holy faith, which, if only laid hold of in spiritual power, would produce wonderful results in practice. But we must return to our theme; and in doing so, we would ask the reader if he really understands the true spiritual import of the river Jordan? What does it really mean? We have said that it typifies the death of Christ. But in what aspect? for that precious death, as we are now considering, has many and various aspects. We believe the Jordan sets forth the death of our Lord Jesus Christ as that by which we are introduced into the inheritance He has obtained for us. The Red Sea _delivered Israel from_ Egypt and the power of Pharaoh. Jordan _brought them into_ the land of Canaan. We find both in the death of Christ. He, blessed be His name, has, by His death on the cross--His death for us--delivered us from our sins, from their guilt and condemnation, from Satan's power, and from this present evil world. But more than this: He has, by the same infinitely precious work, brought us _now_ into an entirely new position, in resurrection and in living union and association with Himself, where He is at God's right hand. Such is the distinct teaching of Eph. ii. "But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us, even when we were dead in sins, _hath quickened us together with Christ_, (by grace ye are saved;) and _hath raised us up together_, and made us _sit together in the heavenlies_ in Christ Jesus" (vers. 4-6). Note the little word "_hath_." He is not speaking of what God _will_ do, but of what He _hath_ done--done for us, and with us, in Christ Jesus. The believer has not to wait till he passes out of this life to enjoy his inheritance in heaven. In the person of his living and glorified Head, through faith, by the Spirit, he belongs there now, and is free to all that God has given to all His own.[VI.]