In order to have a good understanding of the first verse in Romans 8, it will be necessary to follow the flow of thought out of chapter seven and into chapter eight.

Back in Romans 7, seeking to be right with God under the Law, but guilty of sin - Paul found himself to be "wretched, carnal, and sold under sin." This was before he found and received deliverance in Christ; prior to his conversion. He had been attempting to live right with God, based on his own obedience to what he thought was right - but he was wrong and disobedient. That frustration is the subject of Romans chapter seven.

Now let's look at chapter 8...