Romans 7:21
Verse
Context
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I find then a law - I am in such a condition and state of soul, under the power of such habits and sinful propensities, that when I would do good - when my will and reason are strongly bent on obedience to the law of God and opposition to the principle of sin, evil is present with me, κακον παρακειται, evil is at hand, it lies constantly before me. That, as the will to do good is constantly at hand, Rom 7:18, so the principle of rebellion exciting me to sin is equally present; but, as the one is only will, wish, and desire, without power to do what is willed, to obtain what is wished, or to perform what is desired, sin continually prevails. The word νομος, law, in this verse, must be taken as implying any strong or confirmed habit, συνηθεια, as Hesychius renders it, under the influence of which the man generally acts; and in this sense the apostle most evidently uses it in Rom 7:23.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For I delight in the law of God,.... This an unregenerate man cannot do; he does not like its commands, they are disagreeable to his corrupt nature; and as it is a threatening, cursing, damning law, it can never be delighted in by him: the moralist, the Pharisee, who obeys it externally, do not love it, nor delight in it; he obeys it not from love to its precepts, but from fear of its threatenings; from a desire of popular esteem, and from low, mercenary, selfish views, in order to gain the applause of men, and favour of God: only a regenerate man delights in the law of God; which he does, as it is fulfilled by Christ, who has answered all the demands of it: and as it is in the hands of Christ, held forth by him as a rule of holy walk and conversation; and as it is written upon his heart by the Spirit of God, to which he yields a voluntary and cheerful obedience: he serves it with his mind, of a ready mind freely, and without any constraint but that of love; he delights together with the law, as the word here used signifies; the delight is mutual and reciprocal, the law delights in him, and he delights in the law; and they both delight in the selfsame things, and particularly in the perfect obedience which the Son of God has yielded to it. The apostle adds, after the inward man; by which he means the renewed man, the new man, or new nature, formed in his soul; which had its seat in the inward part, is an internal principle, oil in the vessel of the heart, a seed under ground, the kingdom within us, the hidden man of the heart, which is not obvious to everyone's view, it being not anything that is external, though never so good: this in its nature is agreeable to the law of God, and according to this a regenerate man delights in it: but then this restrictive limiting clause supposes another man, the old man, the carnal I, according to which the apostle did not delight in the law of God; and proves, that he speaks of himself as regenerate, and not as unregenerate, or as representing an unregenerate man, because no such distinction is to be found in such a person; nor does such a person delight at all, in any sense, upon any consideration in the law of God, but is enmity against it, and not subjected to it; nor can he be otherwise, without the grace of God.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
7:21 principle of life (literally law): Paul is referring to a regular occurrence, such as when we speak of the “law of gravity.” The struggle between wanting to do what is right and instead doing what is wrong reveals a regular pattern operating in the human sphere.
Romans 7:21
Struggling with Sin
20And if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it.21So this is the principle I have discovered: When I want to do good, evil is right there with me.22For in my inner being I delight in God’s law.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Sanctification and the Fight
By J.I. Packer2.9K1:11:43ISA 50:10MAT 6:33ROM 7:21HEB 4:12In this sermon, the speaker discusses the causes of conflict and the road to victory for Christians. He refers to a treatise by John Owens on the nature, power, deceit, and prevalency of indwelling sin in believers. The speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing and addressing this sin, as well as the dangers of indulging in it. He also advises Christians to understand their own weaknesses and avoid situations that may trigger them. Overall, the sermon encourages believers to be vigilant in their spiritual battles and seek victory through the power of God.
Studies in 1 Corinthians 15 1 Cor 15:50-58
By William MacDonald1.8K37:53ROM 6:23ROM 7:211CO 15:57In this sermon, the preacher discusses several important truths from the New Testament. The first truth emphasized is the person of Jesus Christ, highlighting the mystery of His divine and human nature. The sermon then moves on to the topic of the end times, explaining the concept of the rapture and the separation of believers and unbelievers. The preacher also emphasizes the liberating truth of salvation by grace through faith, contrasting it with the futile efforts of people trying to earn their salvation. Lastly, the sermon touches on the importance of understanding dispensational truth, which refers to God dividing human history into different periods or administrations.
Christ in Us - Part 2
By Norman Grubb1.4K39:06ROM 7:21This sermon delves into the concept of self and spirit, contrasting the nature of humans as persons with the essence of God. It emphasizes the need to recognize the presence of Satan as the source of negative emotions and thoughts, urging believers to acknowledge the indwelling of Christ's spirit within them. The speaker highlights the importance of understanding one's identity as a vessel containing either the spirit of Satan or the spirit of truth, and the transformative power of accepting Christ's presence to overcome darkness and live as complete individuals.
Nature and Purpose of Our Freedom
By Russell Aldwinkle98922:19FreedomROM 7:21In this sermon, the speaker discusses the nature and purpose of freedom from a Christian perspective. They emphasize that true freedom is not simply the absence of external constraints or the adherence to a moral code, but rather it is found in trusting in Jesus Christ. The speaker references the struggles of Saint Paul, who recognized the internal battle between his desire to do what is right and the sinful nature within him. They also highlight the importance of love, stating that true freedom comes from experiencing God's love and responding by loving others. The sermon concludes by emphasizing that the Gospel offers this freedom to all who believe and trust in Jesus.
Romans 6 - Part 2
By Zac Poonen97456:47ROM 7:21This sermon delves into the struggles of Christians in overcoming sin and striving for sanctification. It explores the concept of unconscious sin and the battle between the desires of the flesh and the spirit. The speaker emphasizes the need for continual growth and repentance, acknowledging areas of un-Christlikeness and seeking to purify oneself until becoming as pure as Christ. The journey of progressive sanctification is highlighted, focusing on walking in the conscious areas like Jesus and striving to be like Him in all aspects until His return.
The Discipline of Dependability - 12
By Jack Hibbs52155:56DisciplineROM 7:21In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of recognizing that our bodies are not God, but rather tools to be used for His purposes. He encourages listeners to resist the immediate impulses of the body and instead enslave it to the things of God. The speaker also highlights the need to take care of our physical bodies in order to effectively serve God and spread the gospel. He concludes by urging believers to live a steadfast and dependable life, consistently laboring in the things of God, as this is the path to developing deep character and making a lasting impact.
Now That the War Is Over
By Russell DeLong0JOS 24:152CH 7:14ROM 7:212CO 5:17JAS 4:8Russell DeLong preaches about the urgent need for humanity to make a decision to choose God and righteousness in the face of moral decline and societal challenges. He highlights the importance of personal choice in living a righteous life and the power of God to transform individuals who choose to follow Him. DeLong emphasizes the need for a spiritual and moral revival in America and the world, pointing out the consequences of neglecting God and embracing sinful behaviors.
Soul-Killing Plots, Devices, Stratagems & Machinations!
By Thomas Brooks0Spiritual WarfareAwareness of TemptationMAT 4:1JHN 10:10ROM 7:212CO 2:11EPH 6:111TH 5:62TI 2:26JAS 4:71PE 5:81JN 5:19Thomas Brooks emphasizes the necessity of understanding Christ, Scripture, our own hearts, and the devices of Satan to safeguard our souls. He warns that Satan, filled with malice and envy, seeks to ensnare humanity into eternal misery, using our weaknesses against us. Brooks highlights that the devil's plots are numerous and tailored to exploit our inclinations, making vigilance essential for Christians. He urges believers to be aware of these soul-killing strategies to avoid falling into temptation and to remain steadfast in faith.
When Can We Be Made Holy?
By Samuel Logan Brengle0HolinessInner TransformationROM 7:21EPH 4:22Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes the necessity of holiness in the life of a believer, illustrating through the experiences of a young soldier and a little boy who, despite their conversion, struggle with the presence of the 'old man' within them. He explains that while conversion brings forgiveness and a desire to do good, there remains an inner nature that must be dealt with to achieve true holiness. Brengle asserts that this transformation can occur in this life, as supported by Scripture, and encourages believers to seek a pure heart filled with the Holy Spirit without delay. He shares a testimony of a young girl who, upon realizing the possibility of a clean heart, earnestly sought and received this blessing. The message is clear: holiness is attainable now, and believers are called to pursue it with faith and determination.
Twenty-Sixth Day: "In the Presence of Mine enemies."
By J. Wilbur Chapman0MAT 10:36ROM 7:211CO 15:57GAL 2:20J. Wilbur Chapman preaches about the presence of enemies in the life of a good man, emphasizing that having enemies is a sign of being a friend of God. He illustrates this with an old Roman custom where victorious soldiers would feast in the presence of their bound enemies. Chapman highlights that our worst enemies often come from within, such as temper, pride, and unholy thoughts, but through complete submission to Christ, we can experience deliverance and victory over them.
Regeneration
By Anne Dutton0JHN 3:3ROM 7:21ROM 8:231CO 2:142CO 5:17GAL 5:17EPH 2:10EPH 4:22COL 3:101PE 1:3Anne Dutton preaches about the necessity of regeneration for anyone called to the gospel ministry, emphasizing that spiritual understanding is more crucial than academic knowledge. She explains that God's work of regeneration is essential for true preaching of the gospel, regardless of one's educational background. Dutton highlights the universal change that occurs in a believer's soul through the Spirit and word of grace, leading to a new nature in Christ and a spiritual capacity to discern and delight in God's holiness and salvation.
Need of the Double Cure
By Martin Knapp0MAT 5:48JHN 17:17ROM 7:21GAL 5:17EPH 3:16EPH 5:18PHP 3:121TH 2:131PE 1:16Martin Knapp preaches on the concept of Conversion as the first step towards spiritual healing, emphasizing that while Conversion forgives past transgressions and imparts spiritual life, it does not provide complete cleansing. The sermon highlights the need for believers to seek the 'Double Cure,' as commanded in the Bible to 'be perfect,' 'be holy,' and 'be filled with the Spirit.' Various church creeds and testimonies from converted individuals across denominations affirm the ongoing struggle with inbred sin even after conversion, pointing to the necessity of a deeper work of grace for full sanctification.
Sin in the Minister
By John Newton0PSA 103:14JER 17:9ROM 6:14ROM 7:212CO 12:9EPH 6:12HEB 4:161JN 2:1John Newton preaches about the universal sinful nature of mankind, even for those who have experienced God's grace, emphasizing the ongoing battle against sin while finding hope and strength in Jesus as our Savior, Righteousness, Advocate, and Shepherd. He encourages humility, godly sorrow, and self-abasement, while also rejoicing in the Lord's mercy and grace that overrules sin for His glory. As ministers, he highlights the importance of sharing from personal experiences to help and encourage others, acknowledging the constant need for God's strength and guidance in the midst of spiritual warfare.
Letter 3
By James Bourne0ROM 7:21James Bourne writes to his sister expressing his struggles with spiritual darkness, unbelief, and a sense of unworthiness, yet desiring the presence and favor of God. He acknowledges the inner conflict between his sinful nature and his desire to serve God, recognizing the need for purification and surrender to God's will. Bourne finds comfort in the fact that afflictions draw him closer to God, leading him to cry out for mercy and seek the light of God's presence despite his shortcomings and fears.
In the Beginning, God Created Me to Be His Child
By Ausbund0PSA 139:13MAT 22:37JHN 3:16JHN 6:44JHN 14:6ROM 7:21ROM 8:1EPH 2:41TI 1:51JN 2:3Hans Betz preaches about the journey of a person who was created by God as His child, but lost their innocence and goodness upon entering the sinful world. Despite the struggle with sin and the condemnation of the law, the individual cries out for God's grace and mercy, seeking restoration and forgiveness through Christ. Through Christ, the person finds a new life, overcomes sin, and is accepted once again as a child of God. The sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing sin, seeking God's grace, and living a life of faith, love, and obedience to Christ, who fulfills the law and leads to eternal life.
Brethren, I Count Not Myself to Have Apprehended
By John Calvin0ROM 7:21John Calvin preaches about the ongoing struggle with sin in the life of a believer, emphasizing that depravity continues to produce sinful behaviors in us until we are freed from our earthly bodies. He highlights the promise of baptism for the submersion of sin, not for its complete eradication, but to prevent it from ruling over us. Calvin encourages believers to persevere in their fight against sin, acknowledging that progress is made as they see their sinful tendencies diminishing over time, leading to the ultimate victory over depravity at the end of their earthly lives.
The Scriptures Tell Us That Every Man Should Have a Wife
By Ausbund0PSA 139:13MAT 22:37JHN 14:6ROM 7:21ROM 8:11TI 1:5Hans Betz preaches about the journey of a person who was created by God as His child, lost in sin and impurities of the world, and condemned by the law to death. Through recognizing the magnitude of sins and crying out for God's grace, the person finds redemption and restoration in Christ, who fulfills the law and teaches to love God and others. By living in faith, love, and obedience to Christ, one overcomes sin and finds the way to the Father and eternal life.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
I find then a law - I am in such a condition and state of soul, under the power of such habits and sinful propensities, that when I would do good - when my will and reason are strongly bent on obedience to the law of God and opposition to the principle of sin, evil is present with me, κακον παρακειται, evil is at hand, it lies constantly before me. That, as the will to do good is constantly at hand, Rom 7:18, so the principle of rebellion exciting me to sin is equally present; but, as the one is only will, wish, and desire, without power to do what is willed, to obtain what is wished, or to perform what is desired, sin continually prevails. The word νομος, law, in this verse, must be taken as implying any strong or confirmed habit, συνηθεια, as Hesychius renders it, under the influence of which the man generally acts; and in this sense the apostle most evidently uses it in Rom 7:23.
John Gill Bible Commentary
For I delight in the law of God,.... This an unregenerate man cannot do; he does not like its commands, they are disagreeable to his corrupt nature; and as it is a threatening, cursing, damning law, it can never be delighted in by him: the moralist, the Pharisee, who obeys it externally, do not love it, nor delight in it; he obeys it not from love to its precepts, but from fear of its threatenings; from a desire of popular esteem, and from low, mercenary, selfish views, in order to gain the applause of men, and favour of God: only a regenerate man delights in the law of God; which he does, as it is fulfilled by Christ, who has answered all the demands of it: and as it is in the hands of Christ, held forth by him as a rule of holy walk and conversation; and as it is written upon his heart by the Spirit of God, to which he yields a voluntary and cheerful obedience: he serves it with his mind, of a ready mind freely, and without any constraint but that of love; he delights together with the law, as the word here used signifies; the delight is mutual and reciprocal, the law delights in him, and he delights in the law; and they both delight in the selfsame things, and particularly in the perfect obedience which the Son of God has yielded to it. The apostle adds, after the inward man; by which he means the renewed man, the new man, or new nature, formed in his soul; which had its seat in the inward part, is an internal principle, oil in the vessel of the heart, a seed under ground, the kingdom within us, the hidden man of the heart, which is not obvious to everyone's view, it being not anything that is external, though never so good: this in its nature is agreeable to the law of God, and according to this a regenerate man delights in it: but then this restrictive limiting clause supposes another man, the old man, the carnal I, according to which the apostle did not delight in the law of God; and proves, that he speaks of himself as regenerate, and not as unregenerate, or as representing an unregenerate man, because no such distinction is to be found in such a person; nor does such a person delight at all, in any sense, upon any consideration in the law of God, but is enmity against it, and not subjected to it; nor can he be otherwise, without the grace of God.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
7:21 principle of life (literally law): Paul is referring to a regular occurrence, such as when we speak of the “law of gravity.” The struggle between wanting to do what is right and instead doing what is wrong reveals a regular pattern operating in the human sphere.