Romans 7:13-25, The Law’s Inability

Bible Study with Dr. Thomas Constable

Romans 7:13-25 is a continuation of the previous passage, where the apostle Paul describes his personal struggle with sin and the law. Here's a summary of this part:
Paul begins by asking whether the law is sinful. He answers that it is not, as the law reveals sin and shows what is right. In fact, sin takes the opportunity through the law to produce coveting and other sinful desires in people.
The passage then delves into Paul's personal struggle with sin. He admits that even though he knows what is right according to the law and desires to do it, he finds himself doing what is wrong. The very sin he hates is what he ends up doing, which highlights the power of sin at work within him.
Paul explains that this internal struggle reveals the presence of two opposing forces within him—the desire to do good according to the law and the power of sin waging war against his mind. He recognizes that in his flesh, there is no inherent goodness, and the ability to do what is right is beyond his grasp.
Feeling trapped and overwhelmed by the power of sin, Paul cries out in distress, asking who will rescue him from this body of death. He acknowledges that only through Jesus Christ our Lord can he find deliverance from the bondage of sin.
In conclusion, Romans 7:13-25 reveals Paul's intense struggle with sin and his recognition of the law's limitations in providing salvation. He comes to the realization that only through faith in Jesus Christ can he find freedom from the power of sin and the hope of transformation. This passage highlights the human struggle with sin and the need for reliance on Christ for deliverance and redemption.