Charles Ellicott Commentary Romans 8:15

"For ye received not the spirit of bondage again unto fear; but ye received the spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father." — Romans 8:15 (ASV)

Spirit of bondage. The Greek corresponds very closely to what we would naturally understand by the English phrase, “such a spirit as would be found in slaves.” The word “spirit” varies greatly in meaning in these verses. Here it means the “dominant habit or frame of mind”; in the next verse, it is used for both the Spirit of God and the spirit of man.

Again to fear. This means being taken back under the old terrorism of the Law. The Law, though it contained promises, was still more essentially a system of threats. For the threats took effect, while the promises remained ineffectual, because the Law could not be fulfilled.

Spirit of adoption. This refers to the spirit characteristic of those adopted as sons. Like Christians at their baptism, they are admitted into this relationship of sonship.

By which we cry. The intensity of the Apostle’s feeling comes out in this simple definition. Instead of any more formal elaboration of his meaning, he says the Spirit of adoption is that which prompts the impassioned cry, Abba, Father.

Abba, Father. “Abba” is the Aramaic equivalent for father. The repetition is one of endearment and entreaty, taken from the natural impulse of children to repeat a beloved name in different forms. Compare Newton’s hymn:

“Jesus, my Shepherd, Husband, Friend,
My Prophet, Priest, and King,” etc.