What does Romans 7:22 mean?

Explanation

Romans 7:22 reads: "For I delight in the law of God after the inward man." This verse reflects the Apostle Paul's personal struggle and his recognition of the spiritual aspect within himself, which he refers to as the "inward man." The "law of God" he speaks of can be understood as the teachings and commandments given in the Scriptures.

To "delight" in this context means to take great pleasure or find joy in.

Hence, the literal meaning is that Paul finds joy in God's law at the core of his being, or his inner self. This inner delight stands in contrast with the conflict he describes elsewhere in Romans chapter 7, where he tackles the struggle between following God's law and being drawn to sin.

Historical Context

The Book of Romans was written by the Apostle Paul around A.D. 57.

At the time, Paul was not yet in Rome but was planning his journey there.

The church in Rome consisted of both Jewish and Gentile believers.

Paul's intent was to address both groups and explain the Gospel and the implications of new life in Christ.

Romans 7, in particular, delves into the struggles believers face with sin and the law, reflecting both the Jewish heritage of the law and the universal human condition.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Romans 7:22 underscores the dichotomy between the "inward man" and the "flesh" that Paul elaborates on throughout his letter. It touches on the concept of the new nature that believers possess in contrast to their old, sinful nature.

Some theologians draw from this verse to discuss the idea of "original sin" and the inherent sinful nature of humanity, while others use it to highlight the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and redemption in Christ, which enables believers to truly delight in the law of God.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Romans 7:22 invites believers to align themselves with their "inward man," the part of them that is renewed by faith in Christ.

It encourages introspection and a focus on spiritual growth, advocating for the pursuit of godly values and adherence to spiritual principles as sources of deep joy and fulfillment, despite ongoing struggles with sin.

Cross-References

• Psalms 1:2: "But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night."
• Psalms 119:97: "O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day."
• Romans 7:25: "I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord.

So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin."

Language Study

In the Greek text, the phrase "delight in the law of God" is translated from "συνήδομαι γὰρ τῷ νόμῳ τοῦ Θεοῦ." The key word here is "συνήδομαι" (synēdomai), meaning to delight together with, to take pleasure in.

It signifies an intimate and profound approval or pleasure.

Another key term is "ἔσω ἄνθρωπος" (esō anthrōpos), referring to the "inward man" or the inner self, which in a Christian context implies the spiritual nature of a person, in contrast with the physical or outward nature.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of an "inward man" or an internal spiritual aspect can be found in various religious traditions and philosophical schools of thought.

In Platonism, there is a distinction between the world of forms (true reality) and the physical world.

Similarly, in Hinduism, there is the concept of "atman," or the inner self.

Comparatively, Paul's usage of "inward man" emphasizes the idea of an indwelling spiritual nature, which aligns with the essence of Christian beliefs about the soul being the seat of true joy and righteousness.

Scientific Perspectives

While the verse itself is spiritual and philosophical in nature, scientific perspectives might examine the psychological aspect of finding joy or meaning in laws or frameworks.

Neurotheology or the study of the relationship between faith and brain function could be relevant in understanding how beliefs and practices such as finding delight in religious law influence brain activity or provide psychological benefits.

commentaries

Commentators have diverse insights into Romans 7:22.

For instance, John Calvin sees this verse as evidence of the "two natures" in a Christian, the spiritual nature rejoicing in God's law, and the sinful nature being at war with it.

Matthew Henry highlights the relationship between the "inward man" and the renewal of the mind, suggesting that true Christians, despite their sins, have their hearts aligned with the Law of God.

Contemporary commentators might focus on the verse's relevance to identity in Christ and the importance of transformation through the Spirit, arguing that the verse supports the idea of an ongoing struggle within the believer that ultimately points to the grace afforded by Jesus Christ.