Romans 8:7
Verse
Context
Sermons





Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God - Because it is a carnal mind, and relishes earthly and sinful things, and lives in opposition to the pure and holy law of God: therefore, it is enmity against God; it is irreconcilable and implacable hatred. It is not subject to the law of God - It will come under no obedience; for it is sin, and the very principle of rebellion; and therefore it cannot be subject, nor subjected; for it is essential to sin to show itself in rebellion; and when it ceases to rebel, it ceases to be sin. From this we learn that the design of God in the economy of the Gospel, is not to weaken, curtail, or lay the carnal principle in bonds, but to destroy it. As it is not subject, and cannot be subject, to the law of God, it must be destroyed, else it will continue to rebel against God. It cannot be mended, or rendered less offensive in its nature, even by the operations of God; it is ever sin, and sin is ever enmity; and enmity, wherever it has power, will invariably show itself in acts of hostility and rebellion.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God--The desire and pursuit of carnal ends is a state of enmity to God, wholly incompatible with true life and peace in the soul. for it is not subject--"doth not submit itself." to the law of God, neither indeed can be--In such a state of mind there neither is nor can be the least subjection to the law of God. Many things may be done which the law requires, but nothing either is or can be done because God's law requires it, or purely to please God.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God,.... These words contain a reason why the issue of carnal mindedness is death; because the carnal mind, the wisdom of the flesh, is not only an enemy, but enmity itself against God: against his being; it reasons against it; it wishes he was not; it forms unworthy notions of him; thinks him such an one as itself; and endeavours to bury him in forgetfulness, and erase out of its mind all memorials of him: it is at enmity against his perfections; either denying his omniscience; or arraigning his justice and faithfulness; or despising his goodness, and abusing his grace and mercy: it finds fault with, and abhors his decrees and purposes; quarrels with his providences; it is implacable against his word and Gospel; especially the particular doctrines of grace, the Father's grace in election, the Son's in redemption, and the Spirit's in regeneration; and has in the utmost contempt the ordinances and people of Christ. This enmity is universal, it is in all men in unregeneracy, either direct or indirect, hidden or more open; it is undeserved; it is natural and deeply rooted in the mind, and irreconcilable without the power and grace of God. It shows itself in an estrangedness from God; in holding friendship with the world, in harbouring the professed enemies of God, in living under the government of sin and Satan; in hating what God loves, and in loving what God hates; in omitting what God commands, and committing what he forbids; it manifests itself in their language, and throughout the whole of their conversations. For it is not subject to the law of God; carnal men are subject to the law's sentence of condemnation, but not to its precepts, by obedience to them; there may be an external, and which is a servile obedience to it, but not a free, voluntary, internal one, and still less a perfect one: the carnal mind is so far from an obedient subjection to the law, that it is far off from the law, and the law from that; it hates and despises it, thwarts and contradicts it in every instance, and, as much as in it lies, makes it void; which fully proves the enmity of the carnal mind against God; for hereby his being is tacitly denied, his sovereignty disputed, his image defaced, his government withdrawn from, and these persons are declared, and declare themselves enemies to him: neither indeed can be; without regenerating grace, without the power and Spirit of God, unless it is written upon the heart by the finger of God; for carnal men are dead in sin, and so without strength to obey the law; and besides, the carnal mind, and the law of God, are directly contrary one to another. Where is man's power and free will? no wonder the carnal mind do not stoop to the Gospel of Christ, when it is not, and cannot be subject to the law of God. Hence we see the necessity of almighty power, and efficacious grace in conversion. It is Christ's work to subject men to the law, and which is done when he justifies by his righteousness: agreeably to which the Targum on Isa 53:11; paraphrases it thus: "in his wisdom he shall justify the righteous, that , "he may subject many to the law".'' And in Isa 53:11, the transgressors he hath subjected to the law.
Romans 8:7
Walking by the Spirit
6The mind of the flesh is death, but the mind of the Spirit is life and peace,7because the mind of the flesh is hostile to God: It does not submit to God’s law, nor can it do so. 8Those controlled by the flesh cannot please God.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
K-197 the Anatomy of Sin Part One
By Art Katz2.8K1:29:54Sin1SA 15:22PSA 19:13MAT 7:21ROM 8:71CO 5:121PE 4:17REV 2:5In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of removing a television from their home due to the negative influence it had on their children. They emphasize the importance of not being swayed by worldly values and instead focusing on the foundation of sin, judgment, and redemption. The speaker also discusses the audience's reaction to talks about the Holocaust, noting a reluctance to fully accept and embrace the judgments of God. They then mention the theologian Karl Barth and his profound insights on sin, judgment, and redemption, which are not widely known or appreciated in the evangelical community. The sermon concludes with a challenge to truly understand and confront the nature of sin.
How to Change Your Heart
By Charles Finney2.5K40:08Audio BooksPRO 29:1MAT 6:24LUK 13:3ACT 2:37ROM 8:7HEB 9:271JN 3:8In this sermon, the preacher urges the listeners to cease their rebellion against God and enlist in the service of Jesus Christ. He emphasizes that Jesus has come to destroy the works of the devil and establish the government of God in the hearts of men. The preacher asks if the listeners are willing to allow Jesus to govern the world and if they would obey him themselves. He addresses the concern of being a great sinner and assures that there is mercy available for all. The sermon also discusses the two classes of evidence of a change of heart, which are vivid emotions of love for God, repentance for sin, and faith in Christ. The importance of understanding the philosophy of conversion is highlighted, as many sermons fail to secure the sinner's attention or direct it to irrelevant matters. The preacher encourages the listeners to seize the present moment, while they are awake and strong, to make a new heart and spirit and embrace eternal life.
God Cannot Please Sinners
By Charles Finney2.4K27:18Audio BooksMAT 5:44LUK 13:3ACT 17:30ROM 2:4ROM 6:23ROM 8:72CO 6:14In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the long-suffering nature of God in sparing sinners despite their constant rebellion and fault-finding. The preacher emphasizes that nothing God does can please sinners because their hearts and consciences are opposed to Him. The sermon also highlights the torment that sinners will experience in hell, with their hearts unchanged and in enmity against God. The preacher calls for a change of heart, as it is evident that the consciences and hearts of sinners are in conflict with each other. The necessity of this change is universal, as every person has violated their conscience in following the inclinations of their hearts.
The Difficulty of Escaping the Damnation of Hell (Reading)
By Edward Payson2.3K37:01Audio BooksJER 17:9MAL 3:8MAT 23:33LUK 15:7LUK 19:41ROM 8:7ROM 9:3In this sermon, the preacher addresses those who are focused on accumulating wealth and worldly possessions. He questions whether this is the right place to store their treasures and urges them to consider the importance of their eternal souls. The preacher emphasizes that if they still have any regard for God's word, they cannot be indifferent to the fact that they are likely to face final condemnation. He urges them to cherish their serious thoughts, avoid anything that may distract them, and diligently seek ways to strengthen their faith. The preacher also highlights the urgency of the situation, reminding the audience that many people around them are heading towards perdition without even realizing it, and that unless they turn to God for help, they too may face eternal torment.
The Cross in My Life - Part 4
By Derek Prince1.9K28:09ROM 8:7This sermon delves into the opposition between the fleshly nature and the will of God, emphasizing the need to deal with the flesh in order to please God. It explores the struggles individuals face in overcoming their fleshly desires and the importance of crucifying the flesh to live in alignment with God's will. The sermon also highlights the dangers of being entangled with the world and the necessity of choosing to align with God's will to experience true deliverance.
(Genesis) 53 - Joseph - Beloved, Hated and Sold
By S. Lewis Johnson1.5K49:24JosephGEN 37:1GEN 37:18MAT 6:33ROM 8:7In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Joseph from the Bible. He begins by pointing out the common use of the phrase "you know" in modern language, comparing it to the phrase "behold" used by Joseph in his dreams. The speaker then highlights how Joseph's brothers grew jealous of him because their father loved him more. Joseph shares his dreams with his brothers, which only increases their hatred towards him. The sermon concludes with the brothers selling Joseph into slavery and their remorse years later when they realize the anguish they caused him.
A Brand Plucked From the Fire
By David Mook1.2K48:08ZEC 3:4ROM 8:7EPH 2:8In this sermon, the preacher discusses the life of John Wesley, a prominent figure in English Christianity. The sermon begins by recounting a significant event from Wesley's childhood where he was rescued from a burning house, which he later recognized as a symbol of God's intervention in his life. The preacher then highlights Wesley's realization that salvation is not achieved through works or methods, but through faith in the blood of Christ. The sermon briefly touches on Wesley's childhood training in the Word of God and acknowledges the challenge of summarizing such a rich and lengthy life in a single message.
Loving Jesus
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.2K18:46Loving JesusMRK 12:30JHN 14:23ROM 8:71CO 16:22EPH 2:6EPH 3:8REV 2:5In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of the love of Jesus Christ. He describes it as a love affair between God and humanity, where God proposes his love to us. The preacher highlights that this love is not based on human attachment or affection, but is a deep and transformative love that can turn a beggar into a prince. He emphasizes that this love comes from the Holy Spirit and is the first love that we should have for God. The preacher also contrasts this divine love with the worldly understanding of love, stating that true love is found in Jesus Christ and not in the shallow and self-centered love of the world.
The Cost of Carnality
By Shane Idleman78447:34MAT 5:14ROM 8:7This sermon emphasizes the destructive influence of carnality in our lives, highlighting the war between our carnal nature and God, the need to put aside our carnal nature and be filled with the Spirit of God. It discusses how carnality leads to a profession of religion without practice, talking about God without walking with Him, and hearing God's Word without doing it. The sermon challenges listeners to surrender to God, be filled with the Spirit, and live a life that reflects the light of Christ, bringing comfort, clarity, and dispelling darkness in the world.
The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit - Part 1
By Chip Brogden72319:36MAT 26:41ACT 2:16ROM 8:7GAL 5:16This sermon focuses on the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon all people, believers and unbelievers alike, as a manifestation of God's desire for all to be saved and come to repentance. It emphasizes the unique work of the Holy Spirit in the last days, pouring out His Spirit on all flesh, including those who have not yet believed, to draw them to Christ and bring about salvation. The message highlights the expansion of God's presence beyond traditional boundaries, demonstrating His inclusive love and salvation for all who call upon His name.
The Flesh Life
By Phil Beach Jr.2452:16Living in the SpiritThe Flesh LifeFleshROM 8:7GAL 5:24PHP 3:13Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the necessity of being filled with the Holy Spirit while remaining grounded in the Word of God, warning against the dangers of deviating into spiritual experiences that stray from biblical truth. He highlights the Apostle Paul's mission to establish churches and the importance of writing down God's Word for believers who need to be rooted in scripture. Beach calls for a spiritual awakening where the Holy Spirit teaches and reveals the beauty of a life transformed by Christ, urging believers to forget their old ways and embrace their new identity in Him. He discusses the characteristics of the flesh life, which opposes God and cannot submit to His will, and stresses the need for believers to crucify the flesh and live in the Spirit. Ultimately, he reassures that through the Holy Spirit, believers can experience true freedom and beauty in their relationship with Christ.
Four Characteristics of the Carnal Life.
By F.B. Meyer2Spiritual GrowthDiscernmentMAT 5:14JHN 15:5ROM 8:71CO 1:121CO 3:2GAL 5:17EPH 4:14PHP 2:13HEB 5:141PE 2:2F.B. Meyer discusses the four characteristics of the carnal life, emphasizing that a carnal Christian remains in a state of spiritual infancy, relying on others for spiritual nourishment instead of growing in their own understanding of God and the Bible. He warns against sectarianism, where believers identify more with their denominational labels than with the universal Church of Christ. Meyer also highlights the inability of carnal Christians to discern good from evil, likening their spiritual immaturity to a lack of sensitivity to moral issues. He calls for self-examination to determine whether one is living a Christ-centered life or a flesh-centered existence, ultimately urging believers to depend on God rather than themselves.
Freedom From Self
By Ernest O'Neill1MRK 7:21JHN 14:16ACT 15:9ROM 6:6ROM 8:71CO 12:8GAL 5:17GAL 5:22Ernest O'Neill preaches on the search for blessedness and the struggle with inward sin that hinders our spiritual growth. He emphasizes the need for honesty in examining our hearts and the gradual decline in zeal and devotion that many Christians experience over time. O'Neill highlights the distinction between outward sins and inward sin, pointing to the importance of surrendering our 'old self' to God for complete sanctification and freedom from self. He encourages believers to have faith in God's work in their lives and to fully consecrate themselves, allowing the Holy Spirit to cleanse their hearts and guide them into a deeper relationship with God.
Heart-Matters
By A.W. Tozer0SinThe HeartGEN 6:5PSA 51:10PRO 4:23JER 17:9MAT 15:19ROM 8:7EPH 4:18COL 3:2HEB 4:121PE 1:13A.W. Tozer emphasizes that sin originates in the mind, which encompasses not just intellect but the entire personality, including will, emotions, and moral responses. He points out that the carnal mind is in opposition to God and cannot adhere to His law. Tozer references Genesis 6:5 to illustrate that the wickedness of humanity is rooted in the heart, where evil desires and intentions dwell. He urges listeners to recognize that true sin is a matter of the heart, affecting every aspect of a person's being. The sermon calls for introspection and a deeper understanding of the heart's role in our relationship with God.
Where I Am Ye Cannot Come"
By John Nelson Darby0Living in the SpiritSeparation from the WorldJHN 3:3JHN 4:14JHN 7:34JHN 7:38ACT 7:55ROM 8:71CO 6:192CO 5:19GAL 5:22COL 3:17John Nelson Darby emphasizes the profound separation between God and the world, asserting that Christ has left this world permanently, stating, 'Where I am ye cannot come.' He explains that while God has made efforts to reconcile humanity through Christ, the world has rejected Him, leading to a definitive separation. Darby highlights the necessity of being born again and receiving the Holy Spirit to truly connect with God, as the world remains in enmity against Him. He urges believers to recognize their identity in Christ and to manifest His presence in their lives, as they await the fulfillment of God's promises. The sermon calls for self-examination regarding one's relationship with God and the importance of living in the Spirit.
Luke 22
By John Nelson Darby0Divine PatienceRejection of ChristMAT 26:39LUK 22:3LUK 22:14LUK 22:31LUK 22:39LUK 22:54JHN 15:13ROM 8:7HEB 4:15John Nelson Darby preaches on Luke 22, illustrating the profound enmity of the carnal mind against God as evidenced in the rejection of Christ by people, priests, and rulers. He emphasizes the perfect patience of Jesus amidst betrayal and suffering, showcasing His divine knowledge and human affections as He prepares for His sacrificial death. Darby highlights the necessity of recognizing human weakness and the importance of prayer and communion with God during trials, contrasting the disciples' reliance on their strength with Christ's perfect obedience. The sermon culminates in the establishment of a new covenant through Christ's blood, calling believers to remember His sacrifice and walk in humility. Ultimately, it reflects on the rejection of Christ and the grace available to those who acknowledge their need for Him.
I Thought "¦
By K.P. Yohannan0Renewing The MindAligning with God's Thoughts2KI 5:9ISA 55:6ROM 8:7ROM 12:1K.P. Yohannan emphasizes the importance of aligning our thoughts with God's ways, using the story of Naaman, who initially resisted God's simple instructions for healing due to his own expectations. Naaman's anger and pride nearly cost him his healing, but through the encouragement of his servants, he ultimately obeyed and experienced God's miraculous power. The sermon highlights that our own thoughts can hinder our faith and that we must forsake them to receive God's blessings. Yohannan urges believers to renew their minds through God's Word, as true transformation comes from thinking as God thinks. The message is clear: to experience God's power, we must abandon our own thoughts and embrace His.
The Delusion of Progress
By Horatius Bonar0True ProgressFalse TeachingsMAT 24:24JHN 3:3ROM 8:71CO 2:14GAL 1:6EPH 2:12TH 2:32TI 3:1JAS 1:171JN 2:18Horatius Bonar warns against the antichristian delusions that have existed since the days of the apostles, where false Christs arise to undermine the true Christ. He emphasizes that throughout history, these antichrists have distorted truth, promoting human intellect and goodness while dismissing the need for divine regeneration. Bonar argues that what humanity often perceives as progress is merely an illusion, as true progress can only be achieved through the Holy Spirit. He calls for discernment in recognizing the difference between worldly advancements and the spiritual growth that God acknowledges. Ultimately, he stresses that without regeneration, humanity cannot attain genuine progress.
The Law and the Saint 1. Introduction
By A.W. Pink0Moral DecayLaw And GraceROM 8:7EPH 5:22A.W. Pink discusses the dual nature of unregenerate sinners, who embody both Phariseeism and Antinomianism, leading to a pervasive lawlessness in society and the church. He emphasizes that the disregard for Divine Law stems from a lack of fear of God, which has resulted in moral decay across various aspects of life. Pink argues that the Law of God is eternal and binding on all, serving as a moral standard that reflects God's character, while grace does not abolish the Law but fulfills its requirements through Christ. He warns against the contemporary teaching that separates Law from Grace, asserting that both are integral to understanding God's plan for humanity. Ultimately, Pink calls for a recognition of the Law's importance in the life of believers, as it guides them in living righteously under the grace provided by Christ.
Profiting From the Word 7. the Scriptures and the World
By A.W. Pink0Spiritual GrowthSeparation from the WorldMAT 5:11JHN 15:19ROM 8:7GAL 1:4PHP 3:81TI 6:12JAS 4:42PE 1:191JN 2:151JN 5:19A.W. Pink emphasizes the Christian's relationship with the world, warning believers against conforming to its values and distractions. He explains that the Scriptures illuminate the true nature of the world, revealing it as an enemy of God that must be resisted and overcome. Pink encourages Christians to seek spiritual growth through the Word, which should lead to a detachment from worldly desires and a deeper commitment to Christ. He stresses the importance of walking in separation from the world and being prepared to face its hatred, as true followers of Christ will often find themselves at odds with worldly values. Ultimately, Pink calls for believers to elevate their hearts and minds above worldly concerns, focusing instead on eternal truths.
Total Depravity 2
By Charles Finney0Enmity Against GodTotal DepravityJER 17:9ROM 8:7EPH 2:1In his sermon 'Total Depravity 2', Charles Finney emphasizes that the carnal mind is inherently hostile to God, incapable of obeying His moral law due to its selfish nature. He clarifies that this enmity is not a result of the soul's substance but a voluntary state of mind that prioritizes self-gratification over divine obedience. Finney argues that all unconverted individuals possess this carnal mind, which leads to a universal aversion to God and His requirements. He stresses the necessity of recognizing this enmity for true repentance and conversion to occur, highlighting that without acknowledging their rebellion, sinners cannot be saved. The sermon serves as a call to understand the depth of human depravity and the urgent need for divine intervention through the Holy Spirit.
Why Sinners Hate God
By Charles Finney0Human SinfulnessHatred Of GodPSA 10:4ISA 53:3MAT 5:10JHN 3:19JHN 15:25ROM 8:7GAL 5:172TI 3:12JAS 4:41JN 3:13Charles Finney explores the profound reasons behind why sinners harbor hatred towards God, emphasizing that their enmity is not justified by any inherent flaw in God's nature or moral governance. He argues that sinners hate God because He opposes their selfish desires and demands obedience, which they are unwilling to submit to. Finney asserts that the very qualities that sinners despise in God—His holiness, goodness, and impartiality—are the reasons they should love Him instead. Ultimately, he concludes that the hatred of sinners is a reflection of their own selfishness and depravity, and that their guilt is magnified by their rejection of the Gospel. This sermon serves as a stark reminder of the moral conflict between divine righteousness and human sinfulness.
The World Issues of To-Day
By Jessie Penn-Lewis0Spiritual WarfareSoul vs. SpiritGEN 1:26JHN 3:3ROM 8:72CO 5:17GAL 5:17EPH 4:141TH 5:23HEB 4:12JAS 1:211PE 1:23Jessie Penn-Lewis addresses the critical distinction between 'soul-force' and 'spirit-force', emphasizing the dangers posed by the misuse of soul powers in the current age of increased Satanic activity. She explains that the soul, which encompasses self-consciousness and moral faculties, can lead believers astray if it operates independently of the spirit, where God's presence dwells. The sermon warns that the world is witnessing a clash between the forces of the soul, manipulated by the enemy, and the divine forces of the Spirit, as humanity approaches the tribulation period foretold in Scripture. Penn-Lewis highlights the necessity for believers to understand their spiritual identity and the importance of relying on the Spirit rather than the fallen attributes of the soul. This understanding is crucial for resisting the deceptive tactics of the enemy in these last days.
Moral Insanity
By Charles Finney0Moral InsanityRebellion Against GodGEN 6:5PRO 14:12ECC 9:3MAT 6:19ROM 8:7Charles Finney delivers a powerful sermon titled 'Moral Insanity,' emphasizing that the unconverted heart is inherently evil and mad, leading individuals to act against their own best interests. He explains that moral insanity is a deliberate choice to reject God's truth and pursue sin, despite knowing better, which results in a state of rebellion against divine authority. Finney illustrates this madness through various examples, showing how sinners prioritize temporal pleasures over eternal truths, ultimately leading to their own destruction. He warns that this moral insanity is a grave condition that can only be remedied through genuine conversion to God, restoring the will to align with reason and conscience. The sermon concludes with a call to recognize the seriousness of moral insanity and the importance of not quenching the Spirit's work in our lives.
The Essential Element in Christian Perfection
By Samuel Chadwick0MAT 22:37ROM 8:71CO 13:1PHP 3:12HEB 7:251PE 1:161JN 4:8Samuel Chadwick preaches about the essential principle of moral evil being the alienation of the heart from God, emphasizing the need for a clean heart as the source of redemption and the work of the gospel to reconcile man to God. He discusses Christian perfection as salvation from all sin and loving God with all the heart, highlighting the importance of perfect love reigning in the heart and life. Chadwick delves into the sanctification of man's nature through the development of love, stating that love sums up the Christian religion and fulfills the whole law, emphasizing that love is the fulfilling of the law, not its substitute.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God - Because it is a carnal mind, and relishes earthly and sinful things, and lives in opposition to the pure and holy law of God: therefore, it is enmity against God; it is irreconcilable and implacable hatred. It is not subject to the law of God - It will come under no obedience; for it is sin, and the very principle of rebellion; and therefore it cannot be subject, nor subjected; for it is essential to sin to show itself in rebellion; and when it ceases to rebel, it ceases to be sin. From this we learn that the design of God in the economy of the Gospel, is not to weaken, curtail, or lay the carnal principle in bonds, but to destroy it. As it is not subject, and cannot be subject, to the law of God, it must be destroyed, else it will continue to rebel against God. It cannot be mended, or rendered less offensive in its nature, even by the operations of God; it is ever sin, and sin is ever enmity; and enmity, wherever it has power, will invariably show itself in acts of hostility and rebellion.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God--The desire and pursuit of carnal ends is a state of enmity to God, wholly incompatible with true life and peace in the soul. for it is not subject--"doth not submit itself." to the law of God, neither indeed can be--In such a state of mind there neither is nor can be the least subjection to the law of God. Many things may be done which the law requires, but nothing either is or can be done because God's law requires it, or purely to please God.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God,.... These words contain a reason why the issue of carnal mindedness is death; because the carnal mind, the wisdom of the flesh, is not only an enemy, but enmity itself against God: against his being; it reasons against it; it wishes he was not; it forms unworthy notions of him; thinks him such an one as itself; and endeavours to bury him in forgetfulness, and erase out of its mind all memorials of him: it is at enmity against his perfections; either denying his omniscience; or arraigning his justice and faithfulness; or despising his goodness, and abusing his grace and mercy: it finds fault with, and abhors his decrees and purposes; quarrels with his providences; it is implacable against his word and Gospel; especially the particular doctrines of grace, the Father's grace in election, the Son's in redemption, and the Spirit's in regeneration; and has in the utmost contempt the ordinances and people of Christ. This enmity is universal, it is in all men in unregeneracy, either direct or indirect, hidden or more open; it is undeserved; it is natural and deeply rooted in the mind, and irreconcilable without the power and grace of God. It shows itself in an estrangedness from God; in holding friendship with the world, in harbouring the professed enemies of God, in living under the government of sin and Satan; in hating what God loves, and in loving what God hates; in omitting what God commands, and committing what he forbids; it manifests itself in their language, and throughout the whole of their conversations. For it is not subject to the law of God; carnal men are subject to the law's sentence of condemnation, but not to its precepts, by obedience to them; there may be an external, and which is a servile obedience to it, but not a free, voluntary, internal one, and still less a perfect one: the carnal mind is so far from an obedient subjection to the law, that it is far off from the law, and the law from that; it hates and despises it, thwarts and contradicts it in every instance, and, as much as in it lies, makes it void; which fully proves the enmity of the carnal mind against God; for hereby his being is tacitly denied, his sovereignty disputed, his image defaced, his government withdrawn from, and these persons are declared, and declare themselves enemies to him: neither indeed can be; without regenerating grace, without the power and Spirit of God, unless it is written upon the heart by the finger of God; for carnal men are dead in sin, and so without strength to obey the law; and besides, the carnal mind, and the law of God, are directly contrary one to another. Where is man's power and free will? no wonder the carnal mind do not stoop to the Gospel of Christ, when it is not, and cannot be subject to the law of God. Hence we see the necessity of almighty power, and efficacious grace in conversion. It is Christ's work to subject men to the law, and which is done when he justifies by his righteousness: agreeably to which the Targum on Isa 53:11; paraphrases it thus: "in his wisdom he shall justify the righteous, that , "he may subject many to the law".'' And in Isa 53:11, the transgressors he hath subjected to the law.