8:11 What does the phrase "quicken your mortal bodies" (KJV) mean here?
8:11 What does the phrase "quicken your mortal bodies" (KJV) mean here?
The word quicken in this context means give life to. Paul has in view here the future resurrection of believers, as is evidenced by the context, and the word also.
This is what scriptures call the first resurrection. Since the same Spirit of God who raised up Jesus from the dead indwells believers, He will also raise up dead believers at the first resurrection (CP Jn 5:25, 28-29; 14:1-3; 1Cor 15:20-23; 50-58; 1Th 4:13-18; Tit 2:11-14; Rev 20:4-6).
Paul goes on to say, "therefore" - because of the surety of the first resurrection - believers can no longer yield themselves to their old sinful nature. If they do they will forfeit their place in the future eternal kingdom (CP Ro 8:12-13; Ga 5:16-21; Col 3:1-11).