Romans 7:14-18 For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. 15. For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. 16. If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. 17. Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. 18. For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.
There’s no place in Scripture that states we have a “sin nature,” even though humanity was born into sin. At least as it pertains to the disciples of Jesus Christ. This is important to realize, because what we believe about a sin nature affects our walk. Granted, not every theological term we use is found in the Bible. The terms are meant to give a quick reference to complete concepts. For example, the word “Trinity” is no where found in the Bible; however, we find the truth of it through out its pages. Trinity expresses a part of the nature of God in a single word. That being said, it would be a very good idea to compare the terms we use to the Written Word. Those terms may or may not actually exist in the Word of God. If they do exist, we may or may not have a proper understanding of them. Be courageous, and take a line upon line, precept upon precept approach to your studies. Be open to correction if you find your belief system is off in some areas. We all have need of correction. In it all, let the Holy Spirit lead.
Romans chapter seven raises a question for many concerning the Apostle Paul. Was he referring to a personal struggle, or to something else?
Study this for yourself, but it appears the latter would be the case. In the mean time, lets do a quick look at context. We’ll also examine chapter seven in relation to chapter six and eight, along with other passages of scripture. God made us a nice Scripture sandwich by placing chapter seven between six and eight.
In context, Paul was primarily focusing on the futility of following the law of Moses. Verses one through 14 clarifies this fact. Verse one sets it up: “Know ye not, brethren, (for I speak to them that know the law,) how that the law hath dominion over a man as long as he liveth?” Right off the bat, he points out that the law has dominion over those who try to live by it. When he gets to our favorite tongue-twister (verses 15-20), he actually is explaining what it’s like to try living under the law instead of grace. Likewise, Paul tells us that the flesh follows the law of sin (verse 25). Under the law, we find that even though we’ll desire to do the right things, we would still fall short. Not only that, we’ll find ourselves failing at avoiding things we don’t want to do. Why? Because the flesh is incapable of following the law of God. We do not possess the capacity apart from grace.
In verse 17 Paul writes, “Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.” Did he really mean to say that sin was still living inside him as a believer? Again in context, no; rather, as long as he followed the law, sin lived in him However, we do find another law at work: the law of the Spirit of life.
Romans 8:1-4 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. 2. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 3. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4. That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.
What are some things we can take away from this law?
When we walk by faith, we walk in newness of life. We are no longer the walking dead as it were. Under grace, in God’s eyes, sin no longer lives in us. Romans 6:6-7 Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. 7. For he that is dead is freed from sin. If were baptized into Jesus’ death, our old man is counted as dead, and dead people cannot sin (look Romans 6:3-4).
In this newness of life, we find another principle at work in 1 John 3:5-9, and 1 John 5:18: And ye know that He was manifested to take away our sins; and in Him is no sin. 6. Whosoever abideth in Him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen Him, neither known Him. 7. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous. 8. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that He might destroy the works of the devil. 9. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. (5:18) We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not.
That means we do not habitually practice sin.
The question is: how can you have a sin nature if you are dead in Chris Jesus? Romans 6:7 clearly states, “For he that is dead is freed from sin.” Furthermore, verse 14 says, “sin shall not have dominion over you.” Why? Because you are under grace. So, Romans 7:17 actually refers to Paul prior to the Cross and Resurrection.
