What does Romans 7:14 mean?

Explanation

Romans 7:14 contrasts the spiritual nature of God's law with the human condition, which is described as "carnal" or fleshly. The apostle Paul identifies a struggle within himself, recognizing that while the law is good and derived from God's spirit, he is subject to the weaknesses of the flesh.

The phrase "sold under sin" suggests a condition of being enslaved or dominated by sin.

Instead of living in accordance with the spiritual law, Paul acknowledges that his carnal nature often leads him to sinful actions, despite his knowledge and desire to do otherwise.

It's a personal and profound admission of the struggle between the spiritual ideal and the human reality of sin and imperfection.

Historical Context

Romans 7:14 is part of the epistle (letter) that Paul wrote to the church in Rome during the first century A.D.

This was a time when early Christians were grappling with the relationship between Jewish law and the new faith in Jesus Christ.

Paul's intention in this letter is to address both Jewish and Gentile Christians and the place of the law in light of Christ's teachings.

His epistle delves into theological issues about sin, grace, and salvation, and he often uses himself as an example to illustrate his points.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Romans 7:14 has given rise to various interpretations.

Some see it as an expression of Paul's frustration with his pre-conversion struggle, while others interpret it as the ongoing conflict that Christians experience as long as they inhabit their mortal bodies.

Reformed theology traditionally views this struggle as ongoing even for believers, emphasizing the doctrine of total depravity, which suggests that every part of human nature is affected by sin, necessitating divine grace for salvation and sanctification.

In contrast, Wesleyan theology may see this as a description of the pre-sanctified state, from which believers can be entirely cleansed to live a victorious life over sin.

Practical Applications

Understanding that the law is spiritual but humans are carnal, followers of Christ may find solace in the recognition that struggling with sin is a common experience.

It encourages believers to seek a closer relationship with God and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit to overcome sin's influence.

This passage also may motivate Christians to practice humility, recognizing their own weaknesses and need for God's assistance in their spiritual journey.

Cross-References

• Romans 7:22-23: "For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: 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."
• Galatians 5:17: "For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would."
• Romans 8:7: "Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be."

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text of Romans 7:14 provide significant insight:

• "Spiritual" (πνευματικός - pneumatikos): This word is often associated with that which is of the Holy Spirit or relating to the divine realm.
• "Carnal" (σαρκικός - sarkikos): Of or relating to the flesh, often associated with human nature's base or sinful elements.
• "Sold under sin" (πεπραμένος ὑπὸ τὴν ἁμαρτίαν - pepramenos hypo tēn hamartian): The term "sold" implies being under the control or in bondage to sin, which denotes powerlessness to free oneself.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparing Romans 7:14 with other ancient myths and religious interpretations, one can find similar themes of a dichotomy between the mortal and divine or between the body and spirit.

For instance, Platonic philosophy distinguishes between the material and spiritual world and views the body as a temporary vessel for the soul.

Many religious traditions address the concept of moral struggle, such as the Buddhist teachings on overcoming desire, which is seen as the source of suffering and sin.

Scientific Perspectives

The conflict between the "carnal" and the "spiritual" as described in Romans 7:14 could be framed within the context of modern psychology's understanding of human behavior.

The concept of inner conflict is well recognized in psychological theories, such as Freud's id, ego, and superego model.

Behavioral science acknowledges the complex interplay between inherited traits, environmental influences, and personal choices, all of which impact the moral and ethical decision-making described by Paul.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and theologians have commented on Romans 7:14 to elucidate its meaning and implications:

• John Stott, an Anglican cleric, wrote about the normalcy of the Christian struggle with sin and the assurance that the law is good and spiritual.
• Martin Luther, the Reformer, commented on this verse to articulate the doctrine of simul justus et peccator, meaning a Christian is at the same time righteous and a sinner.
• F.F.

Bruce, a renowned biblical scholar, emphasized the importance of recognizing the tension within a believer's life between the new nature given by the Spirit and the old nature influenced by the flesh.

His commentary involves a thorough exegesis of the text, considering the broader context of Paul's argument in the epistle to the Romans.