Romans 7:13

Did that which is good, then, become death to me? Certainly 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.

Study Bible

Did that which is good
The phrase "that which is good" refers to the law, which is holy, righteous, and good. In the Greek, "good" is "agathos," emphasizing moral excellence and beneficial nature. The law, given by God, is inherently good and serves as a reflection of His holy character. Historically, the law was central to Jewish life, guiding moral and religious conduct. It was never intended to be a source of death but a guide to righteous living.

then, become death to me?
The question posed here is rhetorical, highlighting a misunderstanding. The Greek word for "death" is "thanatos," which signifies not just physical death but spiritual separation from God. The law, though good, reveals sin, and sin leads to death. Paul is addressing the misconception that the law itself is the cause of death, rather than sin.

Certainly not!
This emphatic denial, "me genoito" in Greek, is a strong expression used by Paul to reject the idea that the law is responsible for death. It underscores the importance of understanding the true purpose of the law. The law is not to blame; rather, it is sin that exploits the law to bring about death.

But in order that sin might be exposed as sin
The purpose of the law is to reveal sin for what it truly is. The Greek word for "exposed" is "phaneroo," meaning to make visible or clear. The law acts as a mirror, showing humanity its sinful nature. This exposure is necessary for understanding the depth of human depravity and the need for a Savior.

it produced death in me through what was good
Here, Paul explains the paradox of the law. While the law is good, sin uses it to produce death. The Greek word "katergazomai" for "produced" implies an active working or bringing about. Sin manipulates the good law to bring about spiritual death, highlighting the insidious nature of sin.

so that through the commandment
The "commandment" refers to the specific laws given by God. In Greek, "entole" signifies a directive or order. The commandments serve a divine purpose: to illuminate sin and its consequences. They are not arbitrary rules but are designed to lead people to an awareness of their need for redemption.

sin might become utterly sinful
The phrase "utterly sinful" emphasizes the extreme sinfulness of sin. The Greek word "huperbole" for "utterly" suggests an exceeding or surpassing measure. The law magnifies sin, showing its true nature and extent. This revelation is crucial for understanding the gravity of sin and the necessity of grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul the Apostle
The author of the Book of Romans, Paul is addressing the complexities of the law and sin in the life of a believer.

2. The Law
Refers to the Mosaic Law, which is considered good and holy but also reveals the sinfulness of humanity.

3. Sin
Personified as a force that uses the good law to produce death, highlighting its deceptive and destructive nature.

Teaching Points

The Goodness of the Law
The law is inherently good and serves a divine purpose. It is not the cause of death but reveals the true nature of sin.

Sin's Deceptive Nature
Sin uses what is good to bring about death, showing its cunning and destructive power. Believers must be aware of sin's ability to corrupt even good things.

The Purpose of the Law
The law exposes sin, making it "utterly sinful." This exposure is necessary for understanding our need for redemption through Christ.

The Role of the Commandment
The commandment serves to highlight the severity of sin, driving us to seek salvation and grace through Jesus.

Living in the Spirit
While the law reveals sin, believers are called to live by the Spirit, who empowers us to overcome sin's power.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the purpose of the law help us in our daily walk with Christ?

2. In what ways can sin use good things in our lives to lead us away from God?

3. How can we apply the knowledge of sin's nature to resist temptation more effectively?

4. What role does the Holy Spirit play in helping us live according to God's commandments?

5. How can we use the law as a tool to deepen our understanding of God's grace and our need for a Savior?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 3:20
This verse explains that through the law comes the knowledge of sin, which aligns with Romans 7:13 in showing the law's role in revealing sin.

Galatians 3:24
Describes the law as a tutor leading us to Christ, emphasizing its purpose in pointing out our need for a Savior.

1 Corinthians 15:56
Discusses how the power of sin is the law, reinforcing the idea that the law, while good, highlights sin's power.