Romans 7:17

Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.

Now {G3570} then {G1161} it is no more {G3765} I {G1473} that do {G2716} it {G846}, but {G235} sin {G266} that dwelleth {G3611} in {G1722} me {G1698}.

But now it is no longer “the real me” doing it, but the sin housed inside me.

In that case, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.

So now it is no more I that do it, but sin which dwelleth in me.

Commentary

Context

Romans 7:17 is a pivotal verse within Paul's deeply personal and theological exploration of the Law, sin, and the believer's struggle. In Romans 7, Paul describes the predicament of a person, likely a regenerated believer, who desires to obey God's Law but finds themselves unable to consistently do so due to the persistent power of sin. This section follows Paul's teaching in Romans 6 about being dead to sin and alive in Christ. The verse encapsulates the internal conflict experienced when the will to do good is present, but the capacity to perform it perfectly is hindered by an indwelling force.

Key Themes

  • The Believer's Internal Conflict: This verse highlights the profound tension within the Christian life, where the renewed mind (the 'I' that desires righteousness) battles against the lingering influence of sinful tendencies. It's a recognition that conversion does not instantly eradicate the presence of sin, but rather initiates a lifelong process of sanctification.
  • The Nature of Indwelling Sin: Paul personifies sin as an active, dwelling force ("sin that dwelleth in me"). This is not an excuse for sinful behavior but a theological explanation of its pervasive nature and its capacity to exert influence even against one's true desires. It underscores that sin is not merely external temptation but an internal reality believers contend with.
  • Distinction of Identity: The phrase "no more I that do it" suggests a distinction between the true, regenerated self and the sinful nature that still resides within. The 'I' that belongs to Christ does not desire to sin; rather, it is the persistent power of the old nature, or 'sin,' that compels actions contrary to God's will. This sets the stage for the triumphant resolution offered in Romans 8:1 where there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "sin that dwelleth in me" uses the Greek word oikousan (οἰκοῦσαν), which means "dwelling" or "residing." This emphasizes sin's established presence and persistent residence within the individual, not merely as an occasional visitor or external temptation. It points to an inherent disposition towards sin that remains even after conversion. This is distinct from the idea of sin having dominion over the believer, which Paul addresses in Romans 6:14.

Practical Application

Romans 7:17 offers profound comfort and insight for believers. It validates the experience of internal struggle against sin, assuring us that such a battle is common to the Christian walk and was even experienced by the Apostle Paul. It teaches us:

  • Understanding the Struggle: The ongoing fight against sinful desires is a normal part of spiritual growth. It's not a sign of a lack of faith, but rather an indication of the spiritual warfare within.
  • No Excuse, but Explanation: This verse doesn't provide an excuse for sin, but an explanation of its source and power. The solution is not self-effort but increasing reliance on the Holy Spirit, as detailed in Romans 8.
  • Reliance on Christ's Victory: Our true identity is in Christ, not in the sin that still tries to influence us. We are called to live in light of our new creation in Christ, trusting in His power to overcome the indwelling sin, much like the conflict described in Galatians 5:17.
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Cross-References

  • Romans 7:20 (10 votes)

    Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.

  • Romans 7:18 (6 votes)

    For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but [how] to perform that which is good I find not.

  • Philippians 3:8 (6 votes)

    Yea doubtless, and I count all things [but] loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them [but] dung, that I may win Christ,

  • Philippians 3:9 (6 votes)

    ¶ And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:

  • James 4:5 (4 votes)

    Do ye think that the scripture saith in vain, The spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy?

  • James 4:6 (4 votes)

    But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

  • Romans 7:23 (3 votes)

    But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.