What role does the law play in making sin "utterly sinful" in Romans 7:13? Setting the Scene in Romans 7 Romans 7 traces Paul’s own struggle with sin after recognizing the glory of God’s Law. Verse 13 sits at the hinge: “Therefore, did that which is good become death to me? Absolutely not. But in order that sin might be exposed as sin, it produced death in me through what was good, so that through the commandment sin might become utterly sinful.” How the Law Makes Sin “Utterly Sinful” • The Law defines sin in unmistakable terms. • “I would not have known what coveting really was if the Law had not said, ‘You shall not covet.’ ” (Romans 7:7) • The Law exposes sin’s hidden motives. • Like bright light on mold, God’s commands reveal attitudes beneath surface behavior. • The Law provokes sin’s rebellion. • “But sin, seizing its opportunity through the commandment, produced in me every kind of covetous desire.” (Romans 7:8) • The authority of the Law stirs the flesh to resist, showing how deep corruption runs. • The Law brings sin’s outcome—death—into sharp focus. • “For sin, seizing its opportunity through the commandment, deceived me and through the commandment put me to death.” (Romans 7:11) • The Law removes every excuse. • When the standard is crystal-clear, blame shifting collapses; sin stands utterly exposed. Why Paul Calls the Law “Holy, Righteous, and Good” • Its source is God’s own character. • Its purpose is life and blessing when perfectly obeyed. • It shows that the problem is never with God’s word but with the sinner’s heart. Echoes Throughout Scripture • Romans 3:20 — “Through the Law we become conscious of sin.” • Romans 5:20 — “The Law was introduced so that trespass might increase.” • Galatians 3:19-24 — The Law acts as a guardian until Christ comes. • 1 John 3:4 — “Sin is lawlessness.” • Psalm 19:7-11 — The Law is perfect, trustworthy, radiant, pure. Practical Takeaways for Believers Today • Cherish the Law as God’s mirror; it diagnoses the heart with precision. • Recognize that moral effort alone cannot conquer the flesh; the Law shows need for the Spirit (Romans 8:1-4). • Let the clarity of God’s commands keep conscience tender and sin unmistakable. • Use the Law evangelistically: reveal sin’s depth so the cross’s grace shines brighter. Through the Law, sin is stripped of disguise, displayed in full ugliness, and sentenced to death—driving sinners to the only solution, the finished work of Jesus Christ. |
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