Romans 7:15

Romans 7:15 KJV presents a profound and often-cited expression of the internal conflict faced by a believer. In this verse, the Apostle Paul articulates the frustrating reality of a divided will, where one's actions do not align with one's intentions or desires.

Context of Romans 7:15

This verse is part of a larger discussion in Romans Chapter 7, where Paul explores the relationship between the Law of Moses, sin, and the believer. He illustrates that the Law, while holy and good, does not provide the power to overcome sin; instead, it reveals sin and even provokes it. The "I" in this passage is widely understood as representing either Paul himself, a person under the Law, or a new convert grappling with indwelling sin. The immediate context of Romans 7:14 speaks of being "carnal, sold under sin," setting the stage for the deep internal struggle described here.

Key Themes and Messages

• The Internal Conflict: The verse vividly portrays the battle within. The individual acknowledges a desire to do good ("what I would"), yet finds themselves doing the very opposite ("that do I not"). Conversely, what they despise ("what I hate"), they end up doing. This highlights the persistent influence of sin within the believer, even after conversion.
• The Weakness of the Will Apart from Grace: It underscores that human will, even when aligned with God's commands, is insufficient to perfectly obey without divine enablement. The Law identifies sin but cannot empower righteousness.
• Understanding Sin's Power: This passage is crucial for understanding the pervasive nature of sin, which is not merely external actions but an internal principle or power that can lead one to act contrary to their deepest convictions.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "I allow not" translates the Greek ou ginōskō (οὐ γινώσκω), which literally means "I do not know" or "I do not recognize/approve." This implies a profound disconnect: "What I am doing, I do not approve of; I do not acknowledge it as truly 'me' or my will." The word for "would" is thelō (θέλω), indicating a strong desire or will. The contrast between this desire and the actual doing ("that do I not") and the doing of what is hated (misō - μισῶ) profoundly expresses the agony of the divided self. This isn't just weakness; it's a deep inner contradiction.

Practical Application

For believers today, Romans 7:15 offers comfort and challenge:

• Comfort in Shared Experience: It assures us that the struggle against sin is a universal experience for those who desire to follow God. You are not alone in feeling this internal conflict.
• Reliance on the Spirit: It points to the necessity of relying on the Holy Spirit, not just willpower, to live a righteous life. The solution to this struggle is found in Romans 8:1-4, which moves from the Law's inability to the Spirit's power to fulfill the righteousness of the Law.
• Humility and Grace: This verse fosters humility, reminding us of our continued need for God's grace and forgiveness, even as we strive to obey. It encourages a deeper appreciation for Christ's work in setting us free from the law of sin and death (Romans 8:2).