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I. WHENCE IT ARISES.

1. The law is spiritual.

2. Human nature is carnal.

II. HOW IT DISCOVERS ITSELF.

1. In the contradiction of practice and conviction; this proves that the law is good, but sin works in us (vers. 15, 17).

2. In the inefficacy of our resolutions; this shows that sin is more powerful than our good purposes (vers. 18-20).

3. In the failure of our good desires; this indicates that our delight in what is good is overpowered by the love of evil.

III. WHAT SHOULD BE ITS EFFECT? It should inspire —

1. An earnest aspiration for deliverance.

2. Gratitude for the salvation of the gospel.

3. A firm resolution to embrace it.

(J. Lyth, D. D.)

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KJV: For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.

WEB: For we know that the law is spiritual, but I am fleshly, sold under sin.