ROMANS Chapter 7
Introduction
------------
Few chapters in the Bible have been the subject of more decidedly
different interpretations than this. And after all that has been
written on it by the learned, it is still made a matter of discussion,
whether the apostle has reference, in the main scope of the chapter,
to his own experience before he became a Christian, or to the
conflicts in the mind of a man who is renewed. Which of these opinions
is the correct one I shall endeavour to state in the Notes on the
particular verses in the chapter. The main design of the chapter is not
very difficult to understand. It is evidently to show the insufficiency
of the law to produce peace of mind to a troubled sinner. In the previous
chapters he had shown that it was incapable of producing justification,
chapters 1-3, he had shown the way in which men were justified by
faith, Romans 3:21-31; 4:1-25. He had shown how that plan produced
peace, and met the evils introduced by the fall of Adam, Romans 5.
He had showed that Christians were freed from the law as a matter of
obligation, and yet that this freedom did not lead to a licentious
life, Romans 6. And he now proceeds still further to illustrate the
tendency of the law on a man both in a state of nature and of grace; to
show that its uniform effect in the present condition of man, whether
impenitent and under conviction, or in a state of grace under the
gospel, so far from promoting peace, as the Jew maintained, was to
excite the mind to conflict, and anxiety, and distress. Nearly all the
peculiar opinions of the Jews the apostle had overthrown in the
previous argument. He here gives the finishing stroke, and shows
that the tendency of the law, as a practical matter, was everywhere the
same. It was not, in fact, to produce peace, but agitation, conflict,
distress. Yet this was not the fault of the law, which was in itself
good, but of sin, Romans 7:6-24. I regard this chapter as not referring
exclusively to Paul in a state of nature, or of grace. The discussion
is conducted without particular reference to that point. It is rather
designed to group together the actions of a man's life, whether in a
state of conviction for sin or in a state of grace, and to show that
the effect of the law is everywhere substantially the same. It
equally fails everywhere in producing peace and sanctification. The
argument of the Jew respecting the efficacy of the law; and its
sufficiency for the condition of man, is thus overthrown by a succession
of proofs relating to justification, to pardon, to peace, to the evils
of sin, and to the agitated and conflicting moral elements in man's bosom.
The effect is everywhere the same. The deficiency is apparent in regard
to ALL, the great interests of man. And having shown this, the apostle
and the reader are prepared for the language of triumph and gratitude,
that deliverance from all these evils is to be traced to the gospel of
Jesus Christ the Lord, Romans 7:25
Verse 1. Know ye not. This is an appeal to their own observation
respecting the relation between husband and wife. The illustration
(Romans 8:2,3) is designed simply to show, that as when a man dies, and
the connexion between him and his wife is dissolved, his law ceases to
be binding on her; so also a separation has taken place between
Christians and the law, in which they have become dead to it; and
they are not now to attempt to draw their life and peace from it, but
from that new source with which they are connected by the gospel,
Romans 8:4.
For I speak to them, etc. Probably the apostle refers here more
particularly to the Jewish members of the Roman church, who were
qualified particularly to understand the nature of the law, and to
appreciate the argument. That there were many Jews fix the church at
Rome has been shown, (see Introduction) but the illustration has no
exclusive reference to them. The law to which he appeals is
sufficiently general to make the illustration intelligible to all men.
That the law. The immediate reference here is probably to the Mosaic
law. But what is here affirmed is equally true of all laws.
Hath dominion. Greek, Rules; exercises lordship. The law is here
personified, and represented as setting up a lordship over a man, and
exacting obedience.
Over a man. Over the man who is under it.
As long as he liveth. The Greek here may mean either as HE liveth,"
or "as it liveth," that is, the law. But our translation has evidently
expressed the sense. The sense is, that death releases a man from the
laws by which he was bound in life. It is a general principle, relating
to the laws of the land, the law of a parent, the law of a contract,
etc. This general principle the apostle proceeds to apply in regard to
the law of God.
Verse 2. For the woman. This verse is a specific illustration of the
general principle in Romans 7:1, that death dissolves those connexions
and relations which make law binding in life. It is a simple illustration;
and if this had been kept in mind, it would have saved much of the
perplexity which has been felt by many commentators, and much of their
wild vagaries in endeavouring to show that "men are the wife, the law
the former husband, and Christ the new one;" or that "the old man is
the wife, sinful desires the husband, sins the children." Beza.
(See Stuart.) Such expositions are sufficient to humble us, and to
make us mourn over the puerile and fanciful interpretations which even
wise and good men often give to the Bible.
Is bound by the law, etc. See the same sentiment in 1 Corinthians 7:39.
To her husband. She is united to him; and is under his authority as
the head of the household. To him is particularly committed the
headship of the family, and the wife is subject to his law, in the Lord,
Ephesians 5:22,23.
She is loosed, etc. The husband has no more authority. The connexion
from which obligation resulted is dissolved.
{h} "For the woman" 1 Corinthians 7:39
Verse 3. So then if, etc. Comp. Matthew 5:32.
She shall be called. She will be. The word used here (\~crhmatisei\~)
is often used to denote being called by an oracle, or by Divine
revelation. But it is here employed in the simple sense of being
commonly called, or of being so regarded.
{i} "while her husband" Matthew 5:32
Verse 4. Wherefore. This verse contains an application of the
illustration in the two preceding. The idea there is, that
death dissolves a connexion from which obligation resulted. This is
the single point of the illustration, and consequently there is no need of
inquiring whether by the wife the apostle meant to denote the old man,
or the Christian, etc. The meaning is, as death dissolves the
connexion between a wife and her husband, and of course the
obligation of the law resulting from that connexion, so the death of the
Christian to the law dissolves that connexion, so far as the scope
of the argument here is concerned, and prepares the way for another union,
a union with Christ, from which a new and more efficient obligation
results. The design is to show that the new connexion would
accomplish more important effects than the old.
Ye also are become dead to the law. See Barnes "Romans 6:3",
See Barnes "Romans 6:4", See Barnes "Romans 6:". The connexion between
us and the law is dissolved, so far as the scope of the apostle's
argument is concerned. He does not say that we are dead to it, or
released from it as a rule of duty, or as a matter of obligation to obey
it; for there neither is, nor can be, any such release; but we are dead
to it as a way of justification and sanctification. In the great matter
of acceptance with God, we have ceased to rely on the law, having become
dead to it, and having embraced another plan.
By the body of Christ. That is, by his body crucified; or, in other
words, by his death. Comp. Ephesians 2:15, "Having abolished
in his flesh the enmity," etc.; that is, by his death. Colossians 1:22,
"In the body of his flesh through death," etc.; Romans 2:14; 1 Peter 2:24,
"Who bare our sins in his own body on the tree." The sense is,
therefore, that by the death of Christ as an atoning sacrifice; by his
suffering for us that which would be sufficient to meet the demands of
the law; by his taking our place, he has released us from the law as a
way of justification, freed us from its penalty, and saved us from its
curse. Thus released, we are at liberty to be uffited to the law of him
who has thus bought us with h is blood.
That ye should be married to another. That you might be united to
another, and come under his law. This is the completion of the
illustration in Romans 7:2,3. As the woman that is freed from the law
of her husband by his death, when married again comes under the authority
of another, so we who are made free from the law and its curse by the
death of Christ, are brought under the new law of fidelity and obedience
to him with whom we are thus united. The union of Christ and his people
is not unfrequently illustrated by the most tender of all earthly
connexions--that of a husband and wife, Ephesians 5:23-30; Revelation 21:9,
"I will show thee the bride, the Lamb's wife;" Revelation 19:7.
Even to him who is raised, etc. See the force of this explained,
Romans 6:8.
That we should bring forth fruit unto God. That we should live a holy
life. This is the point and scope of all this illustration. The new
connexion is such as will make us holy. It is also implied that the
tendency of the law was only to bring forth fruit unto death,
Romans 6:5 and that the tendency of the gospel is to make man holy and
pure. Comp. Galatians 5:22,23.
{l} "fruit unto God" Galatians 5:22
Verse 5. For when, etc. The illustration in this verse and the
following is designed to show more at length the effect of the law,
whenever and wherever applied; whether ill a state of nature or of
grace. It was always the same. It was the occasion of agitation and
conflict in a man's own mind. This was true when a sinner was under
conviction; and it was true when a man was a Christian. In all
circumstances where the law was applied to the corrupt mind of man, it
produced this agitation and conflict. Even in the Christian's mind it
produced this agitation, Romans 7:14-24, as it had done and would do in
the mind of a sinner under conviction, Romans 7:7-12 and consequently
there was no hope of release but in the delivering and sanctifying
power of the gospel, Romans 7:25; 8:1-3.
In the flesh. Unconverted; subject to the controlling passions and
propensities of a corrupt nature. Comp. Romans 7:8,9. The connexion
shows that this must be the meaning here, and the design of this
illustration is to show the effect of the law before a man is
converted, Romans 7:5-12. This is the obvious meaning, and all the laws
of interpretation require us so to understand it.
The motions of sins. (\~ta payhmata\~). This translation is unhappy. The
expression "motions of sins" conveys no idea. The original means simply
the passions, the evil affections, the corrupt desires. See the
margin. The expression, passions of sins, is a Hebraism, meaning sinful
passions, and refers here to the corrupt propensities and inclinations
of the unrenewed heart.
Which were by the law. Not that they were originated or created by
the law; for a law does not originate evil propensities, and a holy law
would not cause sinful passions; but they were excited, called up,
inflamed by tile law, which forbids their indulgence.
Did work in our members. In our body; that is, in us. Those sinful
propensities made use of our members as instruments to secure
gratification. See Barnes "Romans 6:12,13". Comp. Romans 7:23.
To bring forth fruit unto death. To produce crime, agitation,
conflict, distress, and to lead to death. We were brought under the
dominion of death; and the consequence of the indulgence of those
passions would be fatal. Comp. See Barnes "Romans 6:21".
{m} "in the flesh" Romans 8:8,9
{1} "motions" or, "passions"
{n} "bring forth fruit unto death" Romans 6:21
Verse 6. But now. Under the gospel. This verse states the conse-
quences of the gospel, in distinction from the effects of the law.
The way in which this is accomplished the apostle illustrates
more at length in Romans 8, with which this verse is properly
connected. The remainder of Romans 7 is occupied in illustrating
the statement in Romans 7:5, of the effects of the law; and after
having shown that its effects always were to increase crime and
distress, he is prepared in Romans 8, to take up the proposition in this
verse, and to show the superiority of the gospel in producing peace.
We are delivered. We who are Christians. Delivered from it as a means
of justification, as a source of sanctification, as a bondage to which
we were subjected, and which tended to produce pain and death. It does
not mean that Christians are freed from it as a rule of duty.
That being dead. Margin, "Being dead to that." There is a variation
here in the Mss. Some read it, as in the text, as if the law was
dead; others, as in the margin, as if we were dead. The majority are in
favour of the reading as in the margin; and the connexion requires us to
understand it in this sense. So the Syriac, the Arabic, the Vulgate,
and the AEthiopic. The sentiment here, that we are dead to the law, is
that which is expressed in Romans 7:4.
Wherein we were held. That is, as captives, or as slaves. We were
held in bondage to it, Romans 7:1.
That we should serve. That we may now serve or obey God
In newness of spirit. In a new spirit; or in a new and Spiritual
manner. This is a form of expression implying,
(1.) that their service under the gospel was to be of a new kind,
differing from that under the former dispensation.
(2.) That it was to be of a spiritual nature, as distinguished from
that practised by the Jews. Comp. 2 Corinthians 3:6. See Barnes "Romans 2:28".
See Barnes "Romans 2:29". The worship required under the gospel is
uniformly described as that of the spirit and the heart, rather than
that of form and ceremony. John 4:23, "The true worshippers shall
worship the Father in spirit and in truth." Philippians 3:3.
And not in the oldness of the letter. Not in the old letter. It is
implied here in this,
(1.) that the form of worship here described pertained to an old
dispensation that had now passed away; and
(2.) that that was a worship that was in the letter. To understand
this, it is necessary to remember that the law which prescribed the
forms of worship among the Jews, was regarded by the apostle as destitute
of that efficacy and power in renewing the heart which he attributed to
the gospel. It was a service consisting in external forms and ceremonies;
in the offering of sacrifices and of incense, according to the literal
requirement of the law, rather than the sincere offering of the heart.
2 Corinthians 3:6, "The letter killeth; the spirit giveth life."
John 6:63; Hebrews 10:1-4; 9:9,10. It is not to be denied that there were
many holy persons under the law, and that there were many spiritual
offerings presented; but it is at the same time true that the great mass
of the people rested in the mere form; and that the service offered
was the mere service of the letter, and not of the heart. The
main idea is, that the services under the gospel are purely and
entirely spiritual, the offering of the heart, and not the service
rendered by external forms and rites.
{1} "delivered from the law" or, "being dead to that"
Verse 7. What shall we say then? The objection which is here urged
is one that would very naturally rise, and which we may suppose
would be urged with no slight indignation. The Jew would ask,
"Are we then to suppose that the holy law of God is not only
insufficient to sanctify us, but that it is the mere occasion of
increased sin? Is its tendency to produce sinful passions, and to
make men worse than they were before?" To this objection the
apostle replies with great wisdom, by showing that the evil was
not in the law, but in man; that though these effects often followed,
yet that the law itself was good and pure.
Is the law sin? Is it sinful? Is it evil? For if, as it is said in
Romans 7:5, the sinful passions were by the law," it might naturally
be asked whether the law itself was not an evil thing?
God forbid. See Barnes "Romans 3:4".
Nay, I had not known sin. The word translated nay (\~alla\~)
means more properly but; and this would have more correctly expressed
the sense, "I deny that the law is sin. My doctrine does not lead to
that; nor do I affirm that it is evil. I strongly repel the charge; BUT,
notwithstanding this, I still maintain 'hat it had an effect in exciting
sins, yet so as that I perceived that the law itself was good,"
Romans 7:8-12. At the same time, therefore, that the law must be
admitted to be the occasion of exciting sinful feelings, by crossing the
inclinations of the mind, yet the fault was not to be traced to the law.
The apostle in these verses refers, doubtless, to the state of his mind
before he found that peace which the gospel furnishes by the pardon
of sin.
But by the law. Romans 3:20. By the law here, the apostle has
evidently in his eye every law of God, however made known. He
means to my that the effect which he describes attends all law,
and this effect he illustrates by a single instance drawn from the
tenth commandment. When he says that he should not have known sin, he
evidently means to affirm, that he had not understood that certain things
were sinful unless they had been forbidden; and having stated this, he
proceeds to another thing, to show the effect of their being thus
forbidden on his mind. He was not merely acquainted abstractly with the
nature and existence of sin, with what constituted crime because it was
forbidden, but he was conscious of a certain effect on his mind resulting
from this knowledge, and from the effect of strong, raging desires when
thus restrained, Romans 7:8,9.
For I had not known lust. I should not have been acquainted with the
nature of the sin of covetousness. The desire might have existed,
but he would not have known it to be sinful, and he would not have
experienced that raging, impetuous, and ungoverned propensity which he
did when he found it to be forbidden. Man without law might have the
strong feelings of desire. He might covet that which others possessed.
He might take property, or be disobedient to parents; but he would
not know it to be evil. The law fixes bounds to his desires, and
teaches him what is right and what is wrong. It teaches him where lawful
indulgence ends, and where sin begins. The word "lust" here is not
limited as it is with us. It refers to all covetous desires; to all
wishes for that which is forbidden us.
Except the law had said. In the tenth commandment, Exodus 20:17.
Thou shalt not covet. This is the beginning of the command,
and all the rest is implied. The apostle knew that it would be
understood without repeating the whole. This particular commandment he
selected because it was more pertinent than the others to his purpose.
The others referred particularly to external actions. But his object was
to show the effect of sin on the mind and conscience. He therefore chose
one that referred particularly to the desires of the heart.
{o} "not known sin" Romans 3:20
{1} "lust" or "concupiscence"
{p} "had said" Exodus 20:17
Verse 8. But sin. To illustrate the effect of the law on the
mind, the apostle in this verse depicts its influence in exciting to evil
desires and purposes. Perhaps nowhere has he evinced more consummate
knowledge of the human heart than here. He brings an illustration
that might have escaped most persons, but which goes directly to
establish his position that the law is insufficient to promote the
salvation of man. Sin here is personified. It means not a real
entity; not a physical subsistence; not something independent of
the mind, having a separate existence, and lodged in the soul; but
it means the corrupt passions, inclinations, and desires of the mind
itself. Thus we say that lust burns, and ambition rages, and envy
corrodes the mind, without meaning that lust, ambition, or envy
are any independent physical subsistences; but meaning that the
mind that is ambitious, or envious, is thus excited.
Taking occasion. The word occasion--(\~aformhn\~) properly denotes any
material, or preparation, for accomplishing anything; then any
opportunity, occasion, etc. of doing it. Here it means that the law
was the exciting cause of sin; or was that which called the sinful
principle of the heart into exercise. But for this, the effect here
described would not have existed. Thus we say that a tempting
object of desire presented is the exciting cause of covetousness.
Thus an object of ambition is the exciting cause of the principle of
ambition. Thus the presentation of wealth, or of advantages possessed by
others which we have not, may excite covetousness or envy. Thus the fruit
presented to Eve was the exciting cause of sin; the wedge of gold to
Achan excited his covetousness. Had not these objects been presented,
the evil principles of the heart might have slumbered, and never have
been called forth. And hence no men understand the full force of their
native propensities until some object is presented that calls them forth
into decided action. The occasion which called these forth in the
mind of Paul was the law crossing his path, and irritating and
exciting the native strong inclinations of the mind.
By the commandment. By all law appointed to restrain and control the
mind.
Wrought in me. Produced or worked in me. The word used here means
often to operate in a powerful and efficacious manner. (Doddridge.)
All manner of. Greek, "All desire." Every species of unlawful desire.
It was not confined to one single desire, but extended to everything
which the law declared to be wrong.
Concupiscence. Unlawful or irregular desire. Inclination for unlawful
enjoyments. The word is the same which in Romans 7:7 is rendered
lust. If it be asked in what way the law led to this, we may reply, that
the main idea here is, that opposition by law to the desires and passions
of wicked men only tends to inflame and exasperate them. This is the case
with regard to sin in every form. An attempt to restrain it by force; to
denounce it by laws and penalties; to cross the path of wickedness; only
tends to irritate, and to excite into living energy, that which otherwise
would be dormant in the bosom. This it does, because
(1.) it crosses the path of the sinner, and opposes his intention, and
the current of his feelings and his life.
(2.) The law acts the part of a detector, and lays open to view that
which was in the bosom, but was concealed.
(3.) Such is the depth and obstinacy of sin in man, that the very
attempt to restrain often only serves to exasperate, and to urge to
greater deeds of wickedness. Restraint by law rouses the mad passions;
urges to greater deeds of depravity; makes the sinner
stubborn, obstinate, and more desperate. The very attempt to set
up authority over him throws him into a posture of resistance, and
makes him a party, and excites all the feelings of party rage. Any
one may have witnessed this effect often on the mind of a wicked
and obstinate child.
(4.) This is particularly true in regard to a sinner. He is calm often,
and apparently tranquil; but let the law of God be brought home to his
conscience, and he becomes maddened and enraged. He spurns its authority,
yet his conscience tells him it is right; he attempts to throw it off,
yet trembles at its power; and, to show his independence, or his purpose
to sin, he plunges into iniquity, and becomes a more dreadful and
obstinate sinner. It becomes a struggle for victory, and in the
controversy with God he resolves not to be overcome. It accordingly
happens that many a man is more profane, blasphemous, and desperate when
under conviction for sin than at other times. In revivals of religion it
often happens that men evince violence, and rage, and cursing, which they
do not in a state of spiritual death in the church; and it is often a
very certain indication that a man is under conviction for sin when he
becomes particularly violent, and abusive, and outrageous in his
opposition to God.
(5.) The effect here noticed by the apostle is one that has been observed
at all times, and by all classes of writers. Thus Cato says, (Livy,
xxxiv. 4,) "Do not think, Romans, that it will be hereafter as it
was before the law was enacted. It is more safe that a bad man
should not be accused, than that he should be absolved; and luxury
not excited would be more tolerable than it will be now, by the
very chains irritated and excited as a wild beast." Thus Seneca
says, (de Clementia, i. 23,) "Parricides began with the law." Thus
Horace; (Odes, i. 3,) "The human race, bold to endure all things,
rushes through forbidden crime." Thus Ovid, (Amor. iii. 4,)
"We always endeavour to obtain that which is forbidden, and
desire that which is denied." (These passages are quoted from
Tholuck.) See also Proverbs 9:17, "Stolen waters are sweet, and
bread eaten in secret is pleasant." If such be the effect of the
law, then the inference of the apostle is unavoidable, that it is not
adapted to save and sanctify man.
For without the law. Before it was given; or where it was not
applied to the mind.
Sin was dead. It was inoperative, inactive, unexcited. This is
evidently in a comparative sense. The connexion requires us to understand
it only so far as it was excited by the law. Men's passions would exist;
but without law they would not be known to be evil, and they would not
be excited into wild and tumultuous raging.
Verse 9. For I. There seems to be no doubt that the apostle here
refers to his own past experience. Yet in this he speaks the sentiment
of all who are unconverted, and who are depending on their own
righteousness.
Was alive. This is opposed to what he immediately adds respecting
another state, in which he was when he died. It must mean, therefore,
that he had a certain kind of peace; he deemed himself secure; he was
free from the convictions of conscience and the agitations of alarm. The
state to which he refers here must be doubtless that to which he himself
elsewhere alludes, when he deemed himself to be righteous, depending on
his own works, and esteeming himself to be blameless, Philippians 3:4-6
Acts 23:1; 26:4,5. It means, that he was then free from those
agitations and alarms which he afterwards experienced when he was brought
under conviction for sin. At that time, though he had the law, and was
attempting to obey it, yet he was unacquainted with its spiritual and
holy nature. He aimed at external conformity. Its claims on the heart
were unfelt. This is the condition of every self-confident sinner, and
of every one who is unawakened.
Without the law. Not that Paul was ever really without the law--that
is, without the law of Moses; but he means before the law was applied to
his heart in its spiritual meaning, and with power.
But when the commandment came. When it was applied to the heart and
conscience. This is the only intelligible sense of the expression;
for it cannot refer to the time when the law was given. When this
was, the apostle does not say. But the expression denotes whenever
it was so applied; when it was urged with power and efficacy on his
conscience, to control, restrain, and threaten him, it produced this
effect. We are unacquainted with the early operations of his mind, and
with his struggles against conscience and duty. We know enough of him
before conversion, however, to be assured that he was proud, impetuous,
and unwilling to be restrained. See Acts 8:1-9:43. In the state of
his self-confident righteousness and impetuosity of feeling, we may
easily suppose that the holy law of God, which is designed to restrain
the passions, to humble the heart, and to rebuke pride, would produce
only irritation, and impatience of restraint, and revolt.
Sin revived. Lived again. This means that it was before dormant,
Romans 7:8 but was now quickened into new life. The word is usually
applied to a renewal of life, Romans 14:9; Luke 15:24,32 but here it means
substantially the same as the expression in Romans 7:8, "Sin--wrought-
in me all manner of concupiscence." The power of sin, which was before
dormant, became quickened and active.
I died. That is, I was by it involved in additional guilt and misery.
It stands opposed to "I was alive," and must mean the opposite of
that; and evidently denotes that the effect of the commandment
was to bring him under what he calls death, Romans 5:12,14,15
that is, sin reigned, and raged, and produced its withering and
condemning effects; it led to aggravated guilt and misery. It
may also include this idea: that before, he was self-confident and
secure; but that by the commandment he was stricken down and
humbled, his self-confidence was blasted, and his hopes were prostrated
in the dust. Perhaps no words would better express the humble, subdued,
melancholy, and helpless state of a converted sinner than the expressive
phrase "I died." The essential idea here is, that the law did not
answer the purpose which the Jew would claim for it, to sanctify the soul
and to give comfort, but that all its influence on the heart was to
produce aggravated, unpardoned guilt and woe.
Verse 10. And the commandment. The law to which he had referred
before.
Which was ordained to life. Which was intended to produce life,
or happiness. Life here stands opposed to death, and
means felicity, peace, eternal bliss. See Barnes "John 3:36". When
the apostle says that it was ordained to life, he probably has
reference to the numerous passages in the Old Testament which speak
of the law in this manner. Leviticus 18:5, "Ye shall keep my statutes and
my judgments; which if a man do, he shall live in them," Ezekiel 20:11
Ezekiel 20:11,13,21; 18:9,21. The meaning of these passages, in
connexion with this declaration of Paul, may be thus expressed:
(1.) The law is good; it has no evil, and is itself fitted to produce no
evil.
(2.) If man was pure, and it was obeyed perfectly, it would produce life
and happiness only. On those who have obeyed it in heaven, it has
produced only happiness.
(3.) For this it was ordained; it is adapted to it; and when perfectly
obeyed, it produces no other effect. But,
(4.) man is a sinner; he has not obeyed it; and in such a case the
law threatens woe. It crosses the inclination of man; and instead of
producing peace and life, as it would on a being perfectly holy, it
produces only woe and crime. The law of a parent may be good, and may be
appointed to promote the happiness of his children; it may be
admirably fitted to it if all were obedient; yet in the family there
may be one obstinate, self-willed, and stubborn child, resolved to
indulge his evil passions, and the results to him would be woe
and despair. The commandment, which was ordained for the good of the
family, and which would be adapted to promote their welfare, he alone,
of all the number, would find to be unto death.
I found. It was to me. It produced this effect.
Unto death. Producing aggravated guilt and condemnation,
Romans 7:9.
{q} "ordained to life" Ezekiel 20:11
Verse 11. For sin. This verse is a repetition, with a little
variation, of the sentiment in Romans 7:8.
Deceived me. The word here used properly means, to lead or seduce
from the right way; and then to deceive, solicit to sin, cause to err
from the way of virtue, Romans 16:18; 1 Corinthians 3:18; 2 Corinthians 11:3, "The serpent
beguiled Eve through his subtilty; "\\2Th 2:3\\. The meaning here
seems to be, that his corrupt and rebellious propensities, excited by
the law, led him astray; caused him more and more to sin; practised a
species of deception on him by urging him on headlong, and without
deliberation, into aggravated transgression. In this sense, all sinners
are deceived. Their passions urge them on, deluding them, and leading
them farther and farther from happiness, and involving them, before they
are aware, in crime and death. No being in the universe is more deluded
than a sinner in the indulgence of evil passions. The description of
Solomon in a particular case will apply to all, Proverbs 7:21-23.
"With much fair speech she caused him to yield;
With the flattering of her lips she forced him.
He goeth after her straightway,
As an ox goeth to the slaughter,
Or as a fool to the correctran of the stocks;
Till a dart strike through his liver,
As a bird hasteth to the snare."
By it. By the law, Romans 7:8.
Slew me. Meaning the same as "I died," Romans 7:9.
Verse 12. Wherefore. So that. The conclusion to which we come is,
that the law is not to be blamed, though these are its effects under
existing circumstances. The source of all this is not the law, but
the corrupt nature of man. The law is good; and yet the position
of the apostle is true, that it is not adapted to purify the heart of
fallen man. Its tendency is to excite increased guilt, conflict,
alarm, and despair. This verse contains an answer to the question
in Romans 7:7, "Is the law sin?"
Is holy. Is not sin. Comp. Romans 7:7.
It is pure in its nature.
And the commandment. The word commandment is here synonymous with
the law. It properly means that which is enjoined.
Holy. Pure.
Just. Righteous in its claims and penalties. It is not unequal in its
exactions.
Good. In itself good; and in its own nature tending to produce
happiness. The sin and condemnation of the guilty is not the fault of
the law. If obeyed, it would produce happiness everywhere. See a most
beautiful description of the law of God in Psalms 19:7-11.
{r} "the law is holy" Psalms 19:7-9.
Verse 13. Was then that which is good, etc. This is another objection,
which the apostle proceeds to answer. The objection is this:
"Can it be possible that that which is admitted to be good and
pure, should be changed into evil? Can that which tends to life,
be made death to a man?" In answer to this, the apostle repeats
that the fault was not in the law, but was in himself, and in his
sinful propensities.
Made death. Romans 7:8,10.
God forbid. See Barnes "Romans 3:4".
But sin. This is a personification of sin as in Romans 7:8.
That it might appear sin. That it might develope its true nature,
and no longer be dormant in the mind. The law of God is often applied to
a man's conscience, that he may see how deep and desperate is his
depravity. No man knows his own heart until the law thus crosses his
path, and shows him what he is.
By the commandment. See Barnes "Romans 7:8".
Might become exeeedingly sinful. In the original this is a very strong
expression, and is one of those used by Paul to express strong emphasis,
or intensity, \~kay uperbolhn\~. By hyperboles. In an extensive degree; to the
utmost possible extent, 1 Corinthians 12:31; 2 Corinthians 1:8; 4:7; 12:7; Galatians 1:13.
The phrase occurs in each of these places. The sense here is, that by
the giving of the command, and its application to the mind, sin was
completely developed; it was excited, inflamed, aggravated, and showed
to be excessively malignant and deadly. It was not a dormant, slumbering
principle; but it was awfully opposed to God and his law. Calvin has well
expressed the sense: "It was proper that the enormity of sin should be
revealed by the law; because unless sin should break forth by some
dreadful and enormous excess, (as they say,) it would not be known to be
sin. This excess exhibits itself the more violently, while it turns life
into death." The sentiment of the whole is, that the tendency of the law
is to excite the dormant sin of the bosom into active existence, and to
reveal its true nature. It is desirable that that should be done; and as
that is all that the law accomplishes, it is not adapted to sanctify the
soul. To show that this was the design of the apostle, it is
desirable that sin should be thus seen in its true nature, because
(1.) man should be acquainted with his true character. He should not
deceive himself.
(2.) Because it is one part of God's plan to develope the secret feelings
of the heart, and to show to all creatures what they are.
(3.) Because only by knowing this will the sinner be induced to take a
remedy, and strive to be saved. God often thus suffers men to plunge
into sin; to act out their nature, that they may see themselves, and be
alarmed at the consequences of their own crimes.
Verses 14-25: The remainder of this chapter has been the subject of no
small degree of controversy. The question has been whether it
describes the state of Paul before his conversion, or afterwards.
It is not the purpose of these Notes to enter into controversy, or
into extended discussion. But after all the attention which I have
been able to give to this passage, I regard it as describing the state
of a man under the gospel, as descriptive of the operations of the
mind of Paul subsequent to his conversion. This interpretation is
adopted for the following reasons:
(1.) Because it seems to me to be the most obvious. It is that which
will strike plain men as being the natural meaning; men who have not a
theory to support, and who understand language in its usual sense.
(2.) Because it agrees with the design of the apostle, which is to show
that the law is not adapted to produce sanctification and peace. This he
had done in regard to a man before he was converted. If this relates
to the same period, then it is a useless discussion of a point already
discussed. If it relates to that period also, then there is a large
field of action, including the whole period after a man's conversion to
Christianity, in which the question might still be unsettled, whether
the law there might not be adapted to sanctify. The apostle therefore
makes thorough work with the argument, and shows that the operation of
the law is everywhere the same.
(3.) Because the expressions which occur are such as cannot be understood
of an impenitent sinner. See Barnes "Romans 7:15",
See Barnes "Romans 7:22".
(4.) Because it accords with parallel expressions in regard to the
state of the conflict in a Christian's mind.
(5.) Because there is a change made here from the past tense to the
present. In Romans 7:7, etc., he had used the past tense, evidently
describing some former state. In Romans 7:14 there is a change to the
present, a change inexplicable, except on the supposition that he meant
to describe some state different from that before described. That could
be no other than to carry his illustration forward in showing the
inefficacy of the law on a man in his renewed state; or to show that such
was the remaining depravity of the man, that it produced substantially
the same effects as in the former condition.
(6.) Because it accords with the experience of Christians, and not with
sinners. It is just such language as plain Christians, who are acquainted
with their own hearts, use to express their feelings. I admit that
this last consideration is not by itself conclusive; but if the
language did not accord with the experience of the Christian
world, it would be a strong circumstance against any proposed
interpretation. The view which is here expressed of this chapter,
as supposing that the previous part (Romans 7:7-13) refers to a man in
his unregenerate state, and that the remainder describes the effect
of the law on the mind of a renewed man, was adopted by studying the
chapter itself, without aid from any writer. I am happy, however, to
find that the views thus expressed are in accordance with those of the
late Rev. Dr. J.P. Wilson, than whom, perhaps, no man was ever better
qualified to interpret the Scriptures. He says,
"In the fourth verse, he (Paul) changes to the first person
plural, because he intended to speak of the former
experience of Christians, who had been Jews. In the seventh
verse he uses the first person singular, but speaks in the
past tense, because he describes his own experience when he
was an unconverted Pharisee. In the fourteenth verse, and
unto the end of the chapter, he uses the first person
singular, and the present tense, because he exhibits his
own experience since he became a Christian and an apostle."
Verse 14. We know. We admit. It is a conceded, well-understood
point.
That the law is spiritual. This does not mean that the law is
designed to control the spirit, in contradistinction from the body, but
it is a declaration showing that the evils of which he was speaking were
not the fault of the law. That was not, in its nature, sensual, corrupt,
earthly, carnal; but was pure and spiritual. The effect described
was not the fault of the law, but of the man, who was sold under sin.
The word spiritual is often thus used to denote that which is pure and
holy, in opposition to that which is fleshly or carnal, Romans 8:5,6;
Galatians 5:16-23. The flesh is described as the source of evil passions
and desires; the spirit as the source of purity, or as that which is
agreeable to the proper influences of the Holy Spirit.
But I am. The present tense shows that he is describing himself as
he was at the time of writing. This is the natural and obvious
construction; and if this be not the meaning, it is impossible to account
for his having changed the past tense (Romans 7:7) to the present.
Carnal. Fleshly; sensual; opposed to spiritual. This word is used
because in the Scriptures the flesh is spoken of as the source of
sensual passions and propensities, Galatians 5:19-21. The sense is, that
these corrupt passions still retained a strong, and withering, and
distressing influence over the mind. The renewed man is exposed to
temptations from his strong native appetites; and the power of these
passions, strengthened by long habit before he was converted, has
travelled over into religion, and they continue still to influence and
distress him. It does not mean that he is wholly under their
influence; but that the tendency of his natural inclinations is to
indulgence.
Sold under sin. This expression is often adduced to show that it
cannot be of a renewed man that the apostle is speaking. The argument is,
that it cannot be affirmed of a Christian that he is sold under sin. A
sufficient answer to this might be, that, IN FACT, this is the very
language which Christians often now adopt to express the strength of
that native depravity against which they struggle, and that no language
would better express it. It does not mean that they choose or prefer
sins. It strongly implies that the prevailing bent of their mind is
against it, but that such is its strength that it brings them into
slavery to it. The expression here used, "sold under sin," is
"borrowed from the practice of selling captives taken in war, as slaves."
(Stuart.) It hence means to deliver into the power of any one, so
that he shall be dependent on his will and control. (Schleusner.)
The emphasis is not on the word sold, as if any act of selling had
taken place, but the effect was as if he had been sold; i.e., he was
subject to it, and under its control, and it means that sin, contrary to
the prevailing inclination of his mind, (Romans 7:15-17) had such an
influence over him as to lead him to commit it, and thus to produce
a state of conflict and grief, Romans 7:19-24. The verses which follow
this are an explanation of the sense, and of the manner in which
he was "sold under sin."
{s} "sold under sin" 2 Kings 17:17
Verse 15. For that which I do. That is, the evil which I do, the sin
of which I am conscious, and which troubles me.
I allow not. I do not approve; I do not wish it; the prevailing bent
of my inclinations and purposes is against it. Greek, "I know not."
See the margin. The word know, however, is sometimes used in the
sense of approving. Revelation 2:24, "Which have not known [approved]
the depths of Satan." Comp. Psalms 101:4, "I will not know a wicked
person." Jeremiah 1:5.
For what I would. That which I approve, and which is my prevailing
and established desire. What I would wish always to do.
But what I hate. What I disapprove of; what is contrary to my
judgment; my prevailing inclination; my established principles of conduct.
That do I. Under the influence of sinful propensities, and carnal
inclinations and desires. This represents the strong native propensity
to sin; and even the power of corrupt propensity under the restraining
influence of the gospel. On this remarkable and important passage we may
observe,
(1.) that the prevailing propensity--the habitual fixed inclination of
the mind of the Christian--is to do right. The evil course is hated; the
right course is loved. This is the characteristic of a pious mind.
It distinguishes a holy man from a sinner.
(2.) The evil which is done is disapproved; is a source of grief; and
the habitual desire of the mind is to avoid it, and be pure. This also
distinguishes the Christian from the sinner.
(3.) There is no need of being embarrassed here with any metaphysical
difficulties or inquiries how this can be; for
(a) it is in fact the experience of all Christians. The
habitual, fixed inclination and desire of their minds is
to serve God. They have a fixed abhorrence of sin; and yet
they are conscious of imperfection, and error, and sin,
that is the source of uneasiness and trouble. The strength
of natural passion may in an unguarded moment overcome them.
The power of long habits of previous thoughts may annoy them.
A man who was an infidel before his conversion, and whose
mind was filled with scepticism, and cavils, and blasphemy,
will find the effect of his former habits of thinking
lingering in his mind, and annoying his peace for years.
These thoughts will start up with the rapidity of the
lightning. Thus it is with every vice and every opinion.
It is one of the effects of habit. "The very passage of
an impure thought through the mind leaves pollution behind it;"
and where sin has been long indulged, it leaves its withering,
desolating effect on the soul long after conversion, and
produces that state of conflict with which every Christian
is familiar.
(b) An effect somewhat similar is felt by all men. All
are conscious of doing that, under the excitement of passion
and prejudice, which their conscience and better judgment
disapprove. A conflict thus exists, which is attended with
as much metaphysical difficulty as the struggle in the
Christian's mind referred to here.
(c) The same thing was observed and described in the
writings of the heathen. Thus Xenophon, (Cyrop. vi. 1,)
Araspes, the Persian, says in order to excuse his
treasonable designs, "Certainly I must have two souls; for
plainly it is not one and the same which is both evil and
good; and at the same time wishes to do a thing and not to
do it. Plainly, then, there are two souls; and when the good
one prevails, then it does good; and when the evil one
predominates, then it does evil." So also Epictetus
(Enchirid. ii. 26) says, "He that sins does not do what
he would; but what he would not, that he does." With this
passage it would almost seem that Paul was familiar, and
had his eye on it when he wrote. So also the well known
passage from Ovid, Meta. vii. 9:
Aliudque Cupido,
Mens aliud suadet. Video meliora, proboque,
Deteriora sequor.
"Desire prompts to one thing, but the mind persuades to
another. I see the good, and approve it, and yet pursue
the wrong."--See other passages of similar import quoted in
Grotius and Tholuck.
{1} "allow not" "know not"
Verse 16. I consent unto the law. The very struggle with evil
shows that it is not loved, or approved, but that the law which
condemns it is really loved. Christians may here find a test of their
piety. The fact of struggling against evil--the desire to be free from
it, and to overcome it, the anxiety and grief which it causes--is an
evidence that we do not love it, and that therefore we are the friends
of God. Perhaps nothing can be a more decisive test of piety than a
long-continued and painful struggle against evil passions and desires
in every form, and a panting of the soul to be delivered from the power
and dominion of sin.
Verse 17. It is no more I that do it. This is evidently figurative
language, for it is really the man that sins when evil is committed.
But the apostle makes a distinction between sin and that which
he intends by the pronoun I. By the former he evidently means
his corrupt nature; by the latter he refers to his renewed nature,
his Christian principles. He means to say that he does not approve
or love it in his present state, but that it is the result of his native
propensities and passions. In his heart, and conscience, and
habitual feeling, he did not choose to commit sin, but abhorred it.
Thus every Christian can say that he does not choose to do evil,
but would wish to be perfect; that he hates sin, and yet that his
corrupt passions lead him astray.
But sin. My corrupt passions and native propensities.
That dwelleth in me. Dwelling in me as its home. This is a strong
expression, denoting that sin had taken up its habitation in the mind,
and abode there. It had not yet been wholly dislodged. This expression
stands in contrast with another that occurs, where it is said that
"the Spirit of God dwells" in the Christian, Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 3:16. The
sense is, that he is strongly influenced by sin on the one hand; and
by the Spirit on the other. From this expression has arisen the phrase
so common among Christians, indwelling sin.
Verse 18. For I know. This is designed as an illustration of what he
had just said, that sin dwelt in him.
That is, in my flesh. In my unrenewed nature; in my propensities and
inclinations before conversion. Does not this qualifying expression show
that in this discussion he was speaking of himself as a renewed man?
Hence he is careful to imply that there was at that time in him something
that was right or acceptable with God, but that that did not pertain to
him by nature.
Dwelleth. His soul was wholly occupied by that which was evil. It
had taken entire possession.
No good thing. There could not be possibly a stronger expression of
belief of the doctrine of total depravity. It is Paul's own
representation of himself. It proves that his heart was wholly evil. And
if this was true of him, it is true of all others. It is a good way to
examine ourselves, to inquire whether we have such a view of our own
native character as to say that we know that in our flesh there
dwelleth no good thing. The sense here is, that so far as the flesh was
concerned--that is, in regard to his natural inclinations and desires--
there was nothing good; all was evil. This was true in his entire conduct
before conversion, where the desires of the flesh reigned and rioted
without control; and it was true after conversion, so far as the
natural inclinations and propensities of the flesh were concerned. All
those operations in every state were evil, and not the less evil
because they are experienced under the light and amidst the influences
of the gospel.
To will. To purpose or intend to do good.
Is present with me. I can do that. It is possible; it is in my power.
The expression may also imply that it was near to him, (\~parakeitai\~),
that is, it was constantly before him; it was now his habitual
inclination and purpose of mind. It is the uniform, regular, habitual
purpose of the Christian's mind to do right.
But how. The sense would have been better retained here if
the translators had not introduced the word how. The difficulty
was not in the mode of performing it, but to do the thing itself.
I find not. I do not find it in my power; or I find strong,
constant obstacles, so that I fail of doing it. The obstacles are not
natural, but such as arise from long indulgence in sin; the strong
native propensity to evil.
{t} "no good thing" Genesis 6:5
Verse 19. For the good, etc. This is substantially a repetition of
what is said in Romans 7:15. The repetition shows how full the
mind of the apostle was of the subject; and how much inclined
he was to dwell upon it, and to place it in every variety of form.
It is not uncommon for Paul thus to express his intense interest in
a subject, by placing it in a great variety of aspects, even at the
hazard of much repetition.
{u} "the good" Galatians 5:17
Verse 20. Now if I do, etc. This verse is also a repetition of what
was said in Romans 7:16,17.
Verse 21. I find then a law. There is a law whose operation I
experience whenever I attempt to do good. There have been various
opinions about the meaning of the word law in this place. It is
evident that [it] is used here in a sense somewhat unusual. But it
retains the notion which commonly attaches to it of that which
binds, or controls. And though this to which he refers differs from
a law, inasmuch as it is not imposed by a superior, which is the
usual idea of a law, yet it has so far the sense of law that it binds,
controls, influences, or is that to which he was subject. There
can be no doubt that he refers here to his carnal and corrupt
nature; to the evil propensities and dispositions which were leading
him astray. His representing this as a law is in accordance with
all that he says of it, that it is servitude, that he is in bondage
to it, and that it impedes his efforts to be holy and pure. The meaning
is this: "I find a habit, a propensity, an influence of corrupt passions
and desires, which, when I would do right, impedes my progress, and
prevents my accomplishing what I would." Comp. Galatians 5:17. Every
Christian is as much acquainted with this as was the apostle Paul.
Do good. Do right. Be perfect.
Evil. Some corrupt desire, or improper feeling, or evil propensity.
Is present with me. Is near; is at hand. It starts up unbidden, and
undesired. It is in the path, and never leaves us, but is always ready
to impede our going, and to turn us from our good designs. Comp.
Psalms 65:3, "Iniquities prevail against me." The sense is, that to
do evil is agreeable to our strong natural inclinations and passions.
{v} "evil is present" Psalms 65:3
Verse 22. For I delight. The word used here (\~sunhdomai\~) occurs
nowhere else in the New Testament. It properly means, to rejoice
with any one; and expresses not only approbation of the understanding,
as the expression, "I consent unto the law," in Romans 7:16,
but, more than that, it denotes sensible pleasure in the heart. It
indicates not only intellectual assent, but emotion--an emotion
of pleasure in the contemplation of the law. And this shows that
the apostle is not speaking of an unrenewed man. Of such a man
it might be said that his conscience approved the law; that his
understanding was convinced that the law was good; but never
yet did it occur that an impenitent sinner found emotions of pleasure in
the contemplation of the pure and spiritual law of God.
If this expression can be applied to an unrenewed man, there is,
perhaps, not a single mark of a pious mind which may not with
equal propriety be so applied. It is the natural, obvious, and
usual mode of denoting the feelings of piety, an assent to the
Divine law followed with emotions of sensible delight in the
contemplation. Comp. Psalms 119:97, "O how love I thy law; it is
my meditation all the day." Psalms 1:2, "But his delight is in the
law of the Lord." Psalms 19:7-11; Job 23:12.
In the law of God. The word law here is used, in a large sense,
to denote all the communications which God had made to control man. The
sense is, that the apostle was pleased with the whole. One mark of
genuine piety is to be pleased with the whole of the Divine requirements.
After the inward man. In respect to the inward man. The expression
"the inward man" is used sometimes to denote the rational part of man as
opposed to the sensual; sometimes the mind as opposed to the body,
(comp. 2 Corinthians 4:16; 1 Peter 3:4). It is thus used by the Greek classic
writers. Here it is used evidently in opposition to a carnal and corrupt
nature; to the evil passions and desires of the soul in an unrenewed
state; to what is called elsewhere "the old man, which is corrupt
according to the deceitful lusts," Ephesians 4:22. The "inward man" is
elsewhere called "the new man," (Ephesians 4:24) and denotes not the
mere intellect, or conscience, but is a personification of the
principles of action by which a Christian is governed; the new nature;
the holy disposition; the inclination of the heart that is renewed.
{w} "delight" Psalms 1:2
{x} "inward man" 2 Corinthians 4:16; 1 Peter 3:4
Verse 23. But I see another law. See Barnes "Romans 7:21".
In my members. In my body; in my flesh; in my corrupt and sinful
propensities. See Barnes "Romans 6:13". Comp. 1 Corinthians 6:15; Colossians 3:5
The body is composed of many members; and as the flesh is regarded as the
source of sin, (Romans 7:18) the law of sin is said to be in the members,
i.e. in the body itself.
Warring against, fighting against; or resisting.
The law of my mind. This stands opposed to the prevailing
inclinations of a corrupt nature. It means the same as was expressed by
the phrase "the inward man," and denotes the desires and purposes of a
renewed heart.
And bringing me into captivity. Making me a prisoner, or a captive.
This is the completion of the figure respecting the warfare. A captive
taken in war was at the disposal of the victor. So the apostle represents
himself as engaged in a warfare; and as being overcome, and
made an unwilling captive to the evil inclinations of the heart.
The expression is strong; and denotes strong corrupt propensities.
But though strong, it is believed it is language which all sincere
Christians can adopt of themselves, as expressive of that painful
and often disastrous conflict in their bosoms when they contend
against the native propensities of their hearts.
{z} "captivity to the law" Psalms 142:7
Verse 24. O wretched man that I am! The feeling implied by this
lamentation is the result of this painful conflict; and this frequent
subjection to sinful propensities. The effect of this conflict is
(1.) to produce pain and distress, it is often an agonizing struggle
between good and evil; a struggle which annoys the peace, and
renders life wretched.
(2.) It tends to produce humility. It is humbling to man to be thus
under the influence of evil passions. It is degrading to his nature; a
stain on his glory; and it tends to bring him into the dust, that he is
under the control of such propensities, and so often gives indulgence
to them. In such circumstances, the mind is overwhelmed with wretchedness,
and instinctively sighs for relief. Can the law aid? Can man aid? Can
any native strength of conscience or of reason aid? In vain all these are
tried, and the Christian then calmly and thankfully acquiesces in the
consolations of the apostle, that aid can be obtained only through Jesus
Christ.
Who shall deliver me. Who shall rescue me; the condition of a mind
in deep distress, and conscious of its own weakness, and looking for
aid.
The body of this death. Marg. This body of death. The word
body here is probably used as equivalent to flesh, denoting the
corrupt and evil propensities on the soul. See Barnes "Romans 7:18".
It is thus used to denote the law of sin in the members, as being that
with which the apostle was struggling, and from which he desired to be
delivered. The expression "body of this death" is a Hebraism, denoting a
body deadly in its tendency; and the whole expression may mean the
corrupt principles of man; the carnal, evil affections that lead to death
or to condemnation. The expression is one of vast strength, and strongly
characteristic of the apostle Paul. It indicates,
(1.) that it was near him, attending him, and was distressing in its
nature.
(2.) An earnest wish to be delivered from it. Some have supposed that
he refers to a custom practised by ancient tyrants, of binding a
dead body to a captive as a punishment, and compelling him to
drag the cumbersome and offensive burden with him wherever he
went. I do not see any evidence that the apostle had this in view.
But such a fact may be used as a striking and perhaps not improper
illustration of the meaning of the apostle here. No strength of
words could express deeper feeling; none more feelingly indicate
the necessity of the grace of God to accomplish that to which the
unaided human powers are incompetent.
{a} "O wretched" Psalms 38:2,10; 77:3-9
{1} "the body" or, "this body of death"
Verse 25. I thank God. That is, I thank God for effecting a
deliverance to which I am myself incompetent. There is a way of I of
rescue, and trace it altogether to his mercy in the Lord Jesus Christ.
What conscience could not do, what the law could not do, what unaided
human strength could not do, has been accomplished by the plan the
gospel; and complete deliverance can be expected there, and there alone.
This is the point to which all his reasoning had tended; and having thus
shown that the law was insufficient to effect this deliverance, he is
now prepared to utter the language of Christian thankfulness that it can
be effected by the gospel. The superiority of the gospel to the law, in
overcoming all the evils under which man labours, is thus
triumphantly established. Comp. 1 Corinthians 15:57.
So then. As the result of the whole inquiry we have come to
this conclusion.
With the mind. With the understanding, the conscience, the
purposes or intentions of the soul. This is a characteristic of the
renewed nature. Of no impenitent sinner could it be ever affirmed that
with his mind he served the law of God.
I myself. It is still the same person, though acting in this
apparently contradictory manner.
Serve the law of God. Do honour to it as a just and holy law,
(Romans 7:12,16) and am inclined to obey it, Romans 7:22,24.
But with the flesh. The corrupt propensities and lusts,
Romans 7:18.
The law of sin. That is, in the members. The flesh throughout,
in all its native propensities and passions, leads to sin; it has no
tendency to holiness; and its corruptions cart be overcome only by the
grace of God. We have thus
(1.) a view of the sad and painful conflict between sin and God. They are
opposed in all things.
(2.) We see the raging, withering effect of sin on the soul. In all
circumstances it tends to death and woe.
(3.) We see the feebleness of the law and of conscience to overcome this.
The tendency of both is to produce conflict and woe. And
(4.) we see that the gospel only can overcome sin. To us it should be a
subject of ever-increasing thankfulness, that what could not be
accomplished by the law can be thus effected by the gospel; and that God
has devised a plan that thus effects complete deliverance, and which
gives to the captive in sin an everlasting triumph.
{e} "I thank God" 1 Corinthians 15:57
Printer friendly version
HOME
TOP