How does Romans 7:21 illustrate the struggle between good and evil within us? The Struggle Stated: Romans 7:21 “So this principle I have discovered: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me.” • Paul describes an ongoing, inner law: every time the renewed will chooses righteousness, the presence of indwelling sin presses in. • “Good” reflects the regenerated heart’s desire to honor God; “evil” represents the lingering sin nature that refuses to surrender (Romans 7:14). • This verse captures the believer’s daily conflict—redeemed yet still awaiting full deliverance (Romans 8:23). Two Natures in Tension • Old nature: “the flesh” sold under sin (Romans 7:14; cf. Ephesians 4:22). • New nature: the mind renewed by the Spirit that delights in God’s law (Romans 7:22; cf. Colossians 3:10). • The clash is continuous until glorification, not a sign of failure but evidence of life in Christ. Wider Biblical Echoes of the Conflict • Galatians 5:17—“For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh.” • James 1:14-15—Temptation begins with inward desire, giving birth to sin if unchecked. • 1 Peter 2:11—“Abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul.” • Psalm 51:5 and Jeremiah 17:9 affirm the depth of inherited corruption, matching Paul’s analysis. Why the Battle Persists • Sin’s power was broken at the cross (Romans 6:6), yet its presence remains until resurrection. • God uses the struggle to deepen dependence on Christ (2 Corinthians 12:9). • The tension exposes our need for daily Spirit-empowered obedience (Romans 8:13). Living Victoriously in the Midst of Conflict • Walk by the Spirit—continual, active submission (Galatians 5:16). • Saturate the mind with Scripture; the “law of God” delights the inward person (Romans 7:22; Psalm 119:11). • Confess and forsake known sin immediately (1 John 1:9). • Remember the ultimate rescue: “Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Romans 7:24-25). Hope for the Ongoing Journey Romans 7:21 is not defeatist; it is realistic. The verse acknowledges the war yet points forward to Romans 8:1—“Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” The struggle itself testifies that God has planted new life within, and His Spirit equips believers to increasingly choose the good, even while evil lurks close at hand. |
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