a [not only they, but ourselves also] Not only the corrupt, depraved creations, but we who are redeemed also suffer and wait for final redemption of the body (1Cor. 15:51–58; Php. 3:21). b [the firstfruits of the Spirit] The first blessings of the outpoured Spirit upon all flesh. Greek: aparche (GSN-
), used of the first of several kinds of blessings (Rom. 8:23; 11:16; 16:5; 1Cor. 15:20, 23; 16:15; Jas. 1:18; Rev. 14:4). c [groan] Greek: stenazo (GSN-), to sigh deeply,
Romans 8:23