Introduction
Perhaps the best known part of Romans 7 is Paul's inner struggle - he wants to do good but is powerless to do so.
His description of his inward wrestling resonates with a lot of people. To be deeply and profoundly frustrated with oneself is a difficult battle - and one we all face.
And, as Paul describes it, there is irony. Even when humans endeavour to do the right thing, we fall short. This powerlessness in the face of sin is, as we saw in the preceding chapter, slavery to sin. Ultimately, we need to be rescued and set free.
Questions
We read in 7:6, "But now, by dying to what once bound us, we have been released from the law so that we serve in the new way of the Spirit, and not in the old way of the written code." How does this verse conclude the first section where Paul uses an analogy from marriage?
Explain what Paul means here: "I found that the very commandment that was intended to bring life actually brought death" (v. 10).
In light of the surrounding verses, discuss the following: "... For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out" (v. 19).
What type of war is Paul describing in v. 23?
Who rescued Paul from this extremely difficult and complex situation (vv. 24-25)?
What is a "nature" (v. 25)?
Reflection
As we said from the outset, this chapter involves inner personal conflict. It really is a struggle.
In a fascinating way, Paul describes how commandments served to expand and deepen his sinful appetite. This is, essentially, the opposite effect of what he was hoping for.
And yet, maybe guilt and frustration is not such a bad thing IF it affords us a reality check. Maybe God can use circumstances like that.
When we realize how desperate and broken we are, then we realize we need saving. We need a Saviour. As we have said in previous posts, the bad and difficult circumstances create a contrast and a backdrop for a work of grace.
Therefore, we can all say,
"Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to Good--through Jesus Christ out Lord!" (Romans 7:25)