Yet this theology of suffering only makes sense within the framework of salvation as it looks to resurrection through life beyond death. The process of salvation provides a theological foundation for a system of ethics. It starts from the already and not yet is infused with the eschatological tension. It involves a continually renewed commitment. In every moral decision there is a choice to be made, for the flesh or for the Spirit.
Conversion is every day.
Apostasy remains a real possibility for the Pauline believer for duration of the eschatological tension. If the believer abandons the struggle and reverts to a wholly fleshy existence, he will not experience daily renewal towards wholeness, but only the daily deterioration towards the destruction of the flesh in death .the possibility of destroying the work of salvation in the believer. Paul calls the believer to carefulness, watchfulness, self-scrutiny, and discipline. Those who love God can trust unconditionally in God . Romans 8 outlines Paul's climax to the salvation process.