Romans 7:24
Verse
Context
Struggling with Sin
23But I see another law at work in my body, warring against the law of my mind and holding me captive to the law of sin that dwells within me.24What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? 25Thanks be to God, through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, with my mind I serve the law of God, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
O wretched man that I am, etc. - This affecting account is finished more impressively by the groans of the wounded captive. Having long maintained a useless conflict against innumerable hosts and irresistible might, he is at last wounded and taken prisoner; and to render his state more miserable, is not only encompassed by the slaughtered, but chained to a dead body; for there seems to be here an allusion to an ancient custom of certain tyrants, who bound a dead body to a living man, and obliged him to carry it about, till the contagion from the putrid mass took away his life! Virgil paints this in all its horrors, in the account he gives of the tyrant Mezentius. Aeneid, lib. viii. ver. 485. Quid memorem infandas caedes? quid facta tyranni? Mortua quin etiam jungebat corpora Vivis, Componens manibusque manus, atque oribus ora; Tormenti genus! et sanie taboque fluentes Complexu in misero, longa sic morte necabat. What tongue can such barbarities record, Or count the slaughters of his ruthless sword? 'Twas not enough the good, the guiltless bled, Still worse, he bound the living to the dead: These, limb to limb, and face to face, he joined; O! monstrous crime, of unexampled kind! Till choked with stench, the lingering wretches lay, And, in the loathed embraces, died away! Pitt. Servius remarks, in his comment on this passage, that sanies, mortui est; tabo, viventis scilicet sanguis: "the sanies, or putrid ichor, from the dead body, produced the tabes in the blood of the living." Roasting, burning, racking, crucifying, etc., were nothing when compared to this diabolically invented punishment. We may naturally suppose that the cry of such a person would be, Wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from this dead body? And how well does this apply to the case of the person to whom the apostle refers! A body - a whole mass of sin and corruption, was bound to his soul with chains which he could not break; and the mortal contagion, transfused through his whole nature, was pressing him down to the bitter pains of an eternal death. He now finds that the law can afford him no deliverance; and he despairs of help from any human being; but while he is emitting his last, or almost expiring groan, the redemption by Christ Jesus is proclaimed to him; and, if the apostle refers to his own case, Ananias unexpectedly accosts him with - Brother Saul! the Lord Jesus, who appeared unto thee in the way, hath sent me unto thee, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. He sees then an open door of hope, and he immediately, though but in the prospect of this deliverance, returns God thanks for the well-grounded hope which he has of salvation, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?--The apostle speaks of the "body" here with reference to "the law of sin" which he had said was "in his members," but merely as the instrument by which the sin of the heart finds vent in action, and as itself the seat of the lower appetites (see on Rom 6:6, and Rom 7:5); and he calls it "the body of this death," as feeling, at the moment when he wrote, the horrors of that death (Rom 6:21, and Rom 7:5) into which it dragged him down. But the language is not that of a sinner newly awakened to the sight of his lost state; it is the cry of a living but agonized believer, weighed down under a burden which is not himself, but which he longs to shake off from his renewed self. Nor does the question imply ignorance of the way of relief at the time referred to. It was designed only to prepare the way for that outburst of thankfulness for the divinely provided remedy which immediately follows.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I thank God, through Jesus Christ our Lord,.... There is a different reading of this passage; some copies read, and so the Vulgate Latin version, thus, "the grace of God, through Jesus Christ our Lord"; which may be considered as an answer to the apostle's earnest request for deliverance, "who shall deliver me?" the grace of God shall deliver me. The grace of God the Father, which is communicated through Christ the Mediator by the Spirit, the law of the Spirit of life which is in Christ, the principle of grace formed in the soul by the Spirit of God, which reigns in the believer as a governing principle, through righteousness unto eternal life, will in the issue deliver from indwelling sin, and all the effects of it: but the more general reading is, "thanks be to God", or "I thank God"; the object of thanksgiving is God, as the Father of Christ, and the God of all grace: the medium of it is Christ as Mediator, through whom only we have access to God; without him we can neither pray to him, nor praise him aright; our sacrifices of praise are only acceptable to God, through Christ; and as all our mercies come to us through him, it is but right and fitting that our thanksgivings should pass the same way: the thing for which thanks is given is not expressed, but is implied, and is deliverance; either past, as from the power of Satan, the dominion of sin, the curse of the law, the evil of the world, and from the hands of all spiritual enemies, so as to endanger everlasting happiness; or rather, future deliverance, from the very being of sin: which shows, that at present, and whilst in this life, saints are not free from it; that it is God only that must, and will deliver from it; and that through Christ his Son, through whom we have victory over every enemy, sin, Satan, law, and death; and this shows the apostle's sure and certain faith and hope of this matter, who concludes his discourse on this head thus: so then with the mind I myself serve the law of God, but with the flesh the law of sin; observe, he says, "I myself", and not another; whence it is clear, he does not represent another man in this discourse of his; for this is a phrase used by him, when he cannot possibly be understood of any other but himself; see Rom 9:3; he divides himself as it were into two parts, the mind, by which he means his inward man, his renewed self; and "the flesh", by which he designs his carnal I, that was sold under sin: and hereby he accounts for his serving, at different times, two different laws; "the law of God", written on his mind, and in the service of which he delighted as a regenerate man; "and the law of sin", to which he was sometimes carried captive: and it should be taken notice of, that he does not say "I have served", as referring to his past state of unregeneracy, but "I serve", as respecting his present state as a believer in Christ, made up of flesh and spirit; which as they are two different principles, regard two different laws: add to all this, that this last account the apostle gives of himself, and which agrees with all he had said before, and confirms the whole, was delivered by him, after he had with so much faith and fervency given thanks to God in a view of his future complete deliverance from sin; which is a clinching argument and proof that he speaks of himself, in this whole discourse concerning indwelling sin, as a regenerate person. Next: Romans Chapter 8
Tyndale Open Study Notes
7:24 this life that is dominated by sin and death (literally this body of death): Sin is so invasive that it affects the whole person, particularly our interactions in the physical world.
Romans 7:24
Struggling with Sin
23But I see another law at work in my body, warring against the law of my mind and holding me captive to the law of sin that dwells within me.24What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? 25Thanks be to God, through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, with my mind I serve the law of God, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Chosen to Be Holy
By Alan Redpath30K56:01ROM 7:24ROM 8:291CO 1:30EPH 1:4EPH 5:18HEB 12:141PE 1:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of holiness and the responsibility that believers have to strive for it. He highlights that this convention is of utmost importance, surpassing any other conventions happening in Dallas. The speaker also discusses the three possible outcomes for the world: the immediate return of Jesus Christ, the absolute destruction of civilization, or the continuation of the current state. The main focus of the sermon shifts to the experience of the fullness of the Holy Spirit, with the speaker introducing the theme for the day and laying a foundation for further discussion. He references Ephesians 1:4 and emphasizes the need for continuous blessings and transformation in the believer's life. The speaker also addresses the issue of rationalizing sin and the importance of recognizing and overcoming personal weaknesses. He concludes by highlighting the spiritual warfare that the Church faces and the need for the power of the Holy Spirit to effectively reach and transform lives.
Power Over Sin
By David Wilkerson7.1K41:09ROM 7:24In this sermon, the preacher discusses the destructive power of sin and how it enslaves and destroys the lives of young and innocent individuals. He shares the story of a seventeen-year-old boy named Carlos, who had been abandoned by his mother and forced to live in a basement. Carlos had never ventured outside of his small neighborhood and had never even seen the Brooklyn Bridge. The preacher also mentions encountering a man who suggests that he needs to take a year off to understand the power of God. Initially resistant, the preacher later realizes the importance of providing comfort and security to those in need, as exemplified by his encounter with Carlos.
Witness of the Spirit - Part 1
By Leonard Ravenhill6.5K1:18:33Witness Of The SpiritROM 7:24In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the root cause of all the problems in the world is sin. He explains that sin is responsible for wrecked homes, wrecked lives, and the failure of government and other systems. The preacher also highlights the importance of the spirit of adoption and the absence of condemnation in the life of a believer. He emphasizes that sharing in the glory of God also means sharing in his suffering, and that the philosophy of the Bible contradicts the standards and values of the world. The preacher concludes by mentioning that the Holy Spirit bears witness to believers, sometimes through groanings that cannot be expressed.
Witness of the Spirit
By Leonard Ravenhill6.1K1:18:33Witness Of The SpiritROM 7:24In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about a wealthy boy who is accused of being snobbish by his classmates. The boy confronts his father about the accusation and learns that his father is not his biological father. The preacher then discusses how the teachings of the Bible go against the standards and values of the world. He emphasizes the importance of having the witness of the Holy Spirit in our lives and the freedom from condemnation that comes from following God's word. The preacher also expresses concern about the current state of society, including collapsing morality and spirituality, and urges listeners to examine their hearts for any bitterness or grudges.
A Victorious Christian Life
By Oswald J. Smith5.3K38:32VictoryMAT 11:28ROM 6:14ROM 7:241CO 15:57In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of finding victory through Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that victory cannot be earned or worked for, but is a gift from God. The preacher encourages the audience to identify their own personal struggles and sins and seek deliverance through Jesus. He invites those who want to find victory to come to an inquiry room where he will lead them in accepting Jesus as their victor.
When the Spirit Is Poured Out
By Erlo Stegen3.7K41:08Holy Spirit OutpouringROM 7:24In this sermon, the preacher discusses the signs that God has spoken about, including the vapor trails left by jets in the sky. He connects these signs to the prophecy of darkness before the coming of the great and awesome day of the Lord. The preacher emphasizes that this day of judgment is inevitable and urges listeners to repent and call upon the name of the Lord for salvation. He encourages those troubled by sin to cry out to the Lord for deliverance. The sermon concludes with a prayer for God's grace and love to abound in the hearts of believers.
Fourfold Challenge to Holiness
By Alan Redpath3.5K32:23HolinessLEV 11:44MAT 6:33ROM 7:24ROM 8:291CO 1:30EPH 1:4HEB 12:14In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of holiness in the lives of believers. He references Ephesians 1:4, which states that believers are chosen in Christ to be holy. He also discusses the resistance to holiness, using Romans 7:24 to highlight the struggle that believers face in overcoming sin. The speaker then points to 1 Corinthians 1:30, which describes Christ as the source of wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. He concludes by expressing his longing for a Holy Spirit revival in the church, as he believes that this is the only alternative to the ruin of Western civilization or the imminent return of Christ.
Romans 7 vs Romans 8
By Leonard Ravenhill3.4K1:24:27FreedomGEN 22:9JOS 1:2MAT 6:33MAT 11:28ROM 7:24ROM 8:37HEB 4:9In this sermon, the speaker discusses the power of the law of the spirit of life in Christ Jesus, which sets believers free from the law of sin and death. He mentions his fear of flying and the challenges involved in his upcoming teaching trip. The speaker then talks about the significance of Jesus' resurrection and how the Holy Spirit quickened him, emphasizing the importance of this moment in human history. He concludes by discussing the various trials and difficulties people face and how they can be more than conquerors through God's ways and thoughts.
The Joy of Preaching Your Own Funeral
By Carter Conlon2.9K47:28Dead To SinLUK 7:11ROM 7:24COL 3:5In this sermon, the speaker discusses the transformation that occurs when a person encounters God and receives new life. He shares his own experience of being convicted and called by God to do things that were previously impossible for him. The speaker emphasizes the importance of hearing God's voice and reading His word in order to experience this transformation. He then turns to the passage in Colossians chapter 3, where the apostle Paul talks about putting off the old nature and putting on the new nature in Christ. The speaker highlights the need to desire true life in Christ, rather than just religious practices, and encourages the audience to let go of anger, revenge, blasphemy, and dishonesty, as they have put on the new nature in Christ.
Pure of Heart Shall See God
By Leonard Ravenhill2.7K1:12:24PurityACT 4:12ROM 7:242CO 5:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses the current state of the world and how spiritual things are often overshadowed by worldly and sensational things. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and surrendering everything to Him. The speaker also mentions the judgment seat of Christ and the need for individuals to watch their steps and be prepared to stand before God alone. He shares a story of a young girl in China who faced persecution for her faith but remained steadfast in her witness for Jesus.
Romans 7 - Bitter Tears
By F.J. Huegel2.6K42:27ROM 3:23ROM 6:23ROM 7:7ROM 7:14ROM 7:24ROM 8:2ROM 8:10In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the theme of Romans 7, which he refers to as an Everest. He explains that the Apostle Paul presents a moral giant facing the demands of the law and expressing despair at his inability to fulfill them. The speaker emphasizes that many Christians spend their days in this state of fear and legalism, but there is nothing to fear because grace can do more than the law. He concludes by sharing a story from Watchman Nee's book, where a lifeguard hesitates to save a drowning person, highlighting the controversy surrounding Romans 7 and leaving the interpretation to the listeners.
God Has Prepared a Place for You
By Teresa Conlon2.4K53:08PSA 34:22PSA 103:8ISA 43:18JON 4:2MAT 5:7MAT 16:24ROM 7:24In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Jonah in the Bible. He highlights how the preaching of God's word can have a profound impact on people's lives, even those who initially scoffed at the idea of God. The preacher emphasizes that the Holy Spirit's hand was evident in the results of the preaching. Despite this, Jonah himself is tormented and expresses a desire to die. The preacher then delves into Jonah chapter 4, where God questions Jonah's anger. The sermon concludes with the message that God has prepared a place for each individual.
The Gift of the Holy Spirit: The Birthright of All Christians
By E. Stanley Jones2.1K25:53Holy SpiritROM 7:24In this sermon, Dr. E. Stanley Jones discusses the importance of the Holy Spirit in the lives of Christians. He emphasizes the need for conversion and becoming like little children in order to enter the kingdom of God. Dr. Jones explains that in this new spirit of living, believers work together with Jesus, with the Holy Spirit providing the power to accomplish God's work. He also addresses the concept of the subconscious mind and its potential for redemption through the Holy Spirit. Overall, the sermon highlights the gift of the Holy Spirit as the birthright of all Christians and the key to living a transformed life.
The Fainting Warrior
By C.H. Spurgeon1.9K41:20ROM 7:24In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the spiritual battle that believers face. He compares the believer's heart to a battlefield, torn up and cut up after a fierce conflict against man, the world, and hell. The preacher finds solace and victory in the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross, recognizing that the blood of Jesus brings triumph. He encourages believers to trust in Jesus for their salvation and to continue fighting the good fight, even when feeling weary and defeated. Ultimately, the preacher assures that Christians will be conquerors in the end, no longer slaves to sin.
Christ Magnified - Part 2
By Leonard Ravenhill1.9K08:21ROM 7:24ROM 8:1ROM 8:6ROM 12:1This sermon emphasizes the importance of having a vision focused on Jesus, where all worldly distractions fade away, and our spirit's vision is fixed on the crucified Christ. It delves into the concept of presenting our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God, through the grace and peace we receive in walking with Him. The message also explores the contrast between being carnally minded, which leads to death, and being spiritually minded, which brings life and peace, ultimately highlighting the victory we have through Jesus Christ over sin and the law.
Walking in the Overwhelming Presence of God
By Denny Kenaston1.9K1:18:24Presence of GodMAT 5:13MAT 6:33LUK 9:33ROM 7:24In this sermon, Brother Denny emphasizes the importance of walking in the overwhelming presence of God. He refers to Romans 7:24, where Paul expresses his struggle and desire to be delivered from sin. Brother Denny encourages the audience to seek and obtain the presence of God in their lives. He emphasizes the need to prioritize spending time alone with God every day, stating that it is essential for a meaningful relationship with Him.
The Spirit Sanctifies Us
By Zac Poonen1.3K59:27SanctificationEXO 20:1ISA 6:5JER 31:33EZK 36:27ROM 7:24ROM 8:9In this sermon, the speaker describes a progression of spiritual growth using the analogy of a man entering into deeper waters. Initially, the man experiences a small trickle of the Holy Spirit's presence, blessing one person in six months. As he continues to go further, the water reaches his ankles, then his knees, and eventually his loins. The final step is when the man detaches from the world and experiences the Holy Spirit like a river, enough to swim in. The speaker emphasizes the importance of allowing the Holy Spirit to operate in all areas of our lives and encourages listeners to ask, seek, and knock in order to receive from God.
Out of Bondage Into Freedom
By Stephen Olford1.3K40:07FreedomROM 7:24ROM 8:1ROM 8:15ROM 8:21ROM 8:28ROM 8:37In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the theme of victory and freedom in the believer's life. He refers to Romans chapter 7 and emphasizes the cry of a victim and the desperation of a defeated man. However, he also highlights the consolation of a determined man who looks to Jesus Christ for victory. The speaker then moves on to chapter 8 of Romans, where he discusses the liberation of a delivered man and the absence of condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. The sermon encourages listeners to claim Christ as Savior, sanctifier, and sovereign in order to experience true freedom from sin and bondage.
(Men God Made) Samson
By Willie Mullan1.3K51:01SamsonJDG 13:1MAT 6:33ROM 7:19ROM 7:24GAL 5:17In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Samson from the book of Judges. He emphasizes the theme of restoration and the grace of God. The preacher highlights how Samson, despite his flaws and mistakes, was restored by God and used mightily for His glory. The sermon also emphasizes the importance of learning from Samson's life and the consequences of giving in to the lusts of the flesh. The preacher encourages the audience to turn their eyes upon God and seek His deliverance and guidance in their own lives.
Grace of God
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.2K18:04Grace Of GodISA 6:5MAL 4:2ACT 9:1ROM 7:24PHP 2:5REV 2:4In this sermon, the speaker reflects on his childhood experience of receiving a camera and how much it meant to him. He contrasts this with the lack of appreciation he sees in today's generation. The speaker then transitions to discussing the importance of seeking Jesus and relying on Him for everything, as without Him, we can do nothing. He emphasizes that there is only one life, which is Jesus' life, and that through Him, blessings can flow and curses can be overcome. The speaker concludes by acknowledging that he realized his entire being was under a curse until he found Jesus.
New Covenant - Overcoming Temptation - Part 3
By Zac Poonen1.2K08:55MAT 5:17ROM 7:24This sermon emphasizes the transition from the Old Covenant with its 613 commandments, which could not bring life, to the New Covenant in Jesus Christ. It highlights the difference between following a list of rules externally and following Jesus internally, who overcame every temptation as an example for us. The importance of honesty in acknowledging our struggles with sin, the need for the Holy Spirit to dwell within us, and the power of God's Word in overcoming temptation are key points discussed.
David and Bathsheba
By Bakht Singh1.2K1:14:39BathshebaGod's DeliveranceSin and RepentancePSA 18:2PSA 34:4PSA 51:10ROM 7:24Bakht Singh preaches on the story of David and Bathsheba, emphasizing the importance of recognizing our sinful nature and the need for God's deliverance. He illustrates how David, despite being a mighty king, succumbed to sin due to his old nature, leading to a series of wrongdoings including adultery and murder. Singh highlights that true liberation comes only through God's grace and the acknowledgment of our sins, as seen in David's repentance in Psalms 51. The sermon encourages believers to seek a new heart and spirit from God, emphasizing that only through divine intervention can we overcome our sinful tendencies. Ultimately, the message is one of hope, urging listeners to trust in God as their rock and deliverer.
Christmas - Jesus the Liberator
By Erlo Stegen1.1K45:14ISA 1:18JHN 4:24ROM 7:24ROM 8:11JN 4:1REV 1:8This sermon delves into the significance of Jesus coming in the flesh, emphasizing the need for discernment amidst false prophets. It explores the confession of Jesus coming in the flesh as a key indicator of the Spirit of God, contrasting it with the Spirit of the Antichrist. The dual nature of Jesus as both God and man is highlighted, underscoring the preciousness of His divine blood and the transformative power it holds over sin and death.
(Romans) Debtors to the Spirit
By Brian Brodersen1.1K53:35ROM 5:1ROM 7:24ROM 8:1ROM 8:17ROM 8:38In this sermon, the speaker begins by recapping the previous teachings in the book of Romans, particularly focusing on the failure of the law to save us. He uses the analogy of light and darkness to explain how cultivating the nature of God within us can drive out the darkness in our lives. The speaker emphasizes the importance of feeding the spirit and indulging in the things of the spirit to experience lasting victory over sin. He also highlights the contrast between the spirit of bondage that the law brings and the spirit of adoption that we receive as sons of God, which implies the impartation of God's nature to us.
Romans, 1978 - Part 3
By Norman Grubb1.1K43:45RomansROM 6:8ROM 7:7ROM 7:24In this sermon, the speaker discusses the journey of faith and the transformation that occurs when one accepts Christ. He emphasizes that faith is not just a feeling of peace, but a substance that leads to a new life in Christ. However, he acknowledges that challenges and struggles still exist in this new life, such as family problems, personal issues, and business difficulties. The speaker highlights the Apostle Paul's own struggle with sin and the realization that he cannot overcome it on his own, leading to the question of who can deliver him from his wretched state. The sermon encourages listeners to recognize their need for Christ's power and to rely on Him for transformation and victory over sin.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
O wretched man that I am, etc. - This affecting account is finished more impressively by the groans of the wounded captive. Having long maintained a useless conflict against innumerable hosts and irresistible might, he is at last wounded and taken prisoner; and to render his state more miserable, is not only encompassed by the slaughtered, but chained to a dead body; for there seems to be here an allusion to an ancient custom of certain tyrants, who bound a dead body to a living man, and obliged him to carry it about, till the contagion from the putrid mass took away his life! Virgil paints this in all its horrors, in the account he gives of the tyrant Mezentius. Aeneid, lib. viii. ver. 485. Quid memorem infandas caedes? quid facta tyranni? Mortua quin etiam jungebat corpora Vivis, Componens manibusque manus, atque oribus ora; Tormenti genus! et sanie taboque fluentes Complexu in misero, longa sic morte necabat. What tongue can such barbarities record, Or count the slaughters of his ruthless sword? 'Twas not enough the good, the guiltless bled, Still worse, he bound the living to the dead: These, limb to limb, and face to face, he joined; O! monstrous crime, of unexampled kind! Till choked with stench, the lingering wretches lay, And, in the loathed embraces, died away! Pitt. Servius remarks, in his comment on this passage, that sanies, mortui est; tabo, viventis scilicet sanguis: "the sanies, or putrid ichor, from the dead body, produced the tabes in the blood of the living." Roasting, burning, racking, crucifying, etc., were nothing when compared to this diabolically invented punishment. We may naturally suppose that the cry of such a person would be, Wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from this dead body? And how well does this apply to the case of the person to whom the apostle refers! A body - a whole mass of sin and corruption, was bound to his soul with chains which he could not break; and the mortal contagion, transfused through his whole nature, was pressing him down to the bitter pains of an eternal death. He now finds that the law can afford him no deliverance; and he despairs of help from any human being; but while he is emitting his last, or almost expiring groan, the redemption by Christ Jesus is proclaimed to him; and, if the apostle refers to his own case, Ananias unexpectedly accosts him with - Brother Saul! the Lord Jesus, who appeared unto thee in the way, hath sent me unto thee, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. He sees then an open door of hope, and he immediately, though but in the prospect of this deliverance, returns God thanks for the well-grounded hope which he has of salvation, through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?--The apostle speaks of the "body" here with reference to "the law of sin" which he had said was "in his members," but merely as the instrument by which the sin of the heart finds vent in action, and as itself the seat of the lower appetites (see on Rom 6:6, and Rom 7:5); and he calls it "the body of this death," as feeling, at the moment when he wrote, the horrors of that death (Rom 6:21, and Rom 7:5) into which it dragged him down. But the language is not that of a sinner newly awakened to the sight of his lost state; it is the cry of a living but agonized believer, weighed down under a burden which is not himself, but which he longs to shake off from his renewed self. Nor does the question imply ignorance of the way of relief at the time referred to. It was designed only to prepare the way for that outburst of thankfulness for the divinely provided remedy which immediately follows.
John Gill Bible Commentary
I thank God, through Jesus Christ our Lord,.... There is a different reading of this passage; some copies read, and so the Vulgate Latin version, thus, "the grace of God, through Jesus Christ our Lord"; which may be considered as an answer to the apostle's earnest request for deliverance, "who shall deliver me?" the grace of God shall deliver me. The grace of God the Father, which is communicated through Christ the Mediator by the Spirit, the law of the Spirit of life which is in Christ, the principle of grace formed in the soul by the Spirit of God, which reigns in the believer as a governing principle, through righteousness unto eternal life, will in the issue deliver from indwelling sin, and all the effects of it: but the more general reading is, "thanks be to God", or "I thank God"; the object of thanksgiving is God, as the Father of Christ, and the God of all grace: the medium of it is Christ as Mediator, through whom only we have access to God; without him we can neither pray to him, nor praise him aright; our sacrifices of praise are only acceptable to God, through Christ; and as all our mercies come to us through him, it is but right and fitting that our thanksgivings should pass the same way: the thing for which thanks is given is not expressed, but is implied, and is deliverance; either past, as from the power of Satan, the dominion of sin, the curse of the law, the evil of the world, and from the hands of all spiritual enemies, so as to endanger everlasting happiness; or rather, future deliverance, from the very being of sin: which shows, that at present, and whilst in this life, saints are not free from it; that it is God only that must, and will deliver from it; and that through Christ his Son, through whom we have victory over every enemy, sin, Satan, law, and death; and this shows the apostle's sure and certain faith and hope of this matter, who concludes his discourse on this head thus: so then with the mind I myself serve the law of God, but with the flesh the law of sin; observe, he says, "I myself", and not another; whence it is clear, he does not represent another man in this discourse of his; for this is a phrase used by him, when he cannot possibly be understood of any other but himself; see Rom 9:3; he divides himself as it were into two parts, the mind, by which he means his inward man, his renewed self; and "the flesh", by which he designs his carnal I, that was sold under sin: and hereby he accounts for his serving, at different times, two different laws; "the law of God", written on his mind, and in the service of which he delighted as a regenerate man; "and the law of sin", to which he was sometimes carried captive: and it should be taken notice of, that he does not say "I have served", as referring to his past state of unregeneracy, but "I serve", as respecting his present state as a believer in Christ, made up of flesh and spirit; which as they are two different principles, regard two different laws: add to all this, that this last account the apostle gives of himself, and which agrees with all he had said before, and confirms the whole, was delivered by him, after he had with so much faith and fervency given thanks to God in a view of his future complete deliverance from sin; which is a clinching argument and proof that he speaks of himself, in this whole discourse concerning indwelling sin, as a regenerate person. Next: Romans Chapter 8
Tyndale Open Study Notes
7:24 this life that is dominated by sin and death (literally this body of death): Sin is so invasive that it affects the whole person, particularly our interactions in the physical world.