JEFF TURNER

Paul’s description in Romans 7 of failing to do what he wants, while doing what he hates, might initially sound like the confession of someone still living apart from Christ. In reality, this internal conflict describes the experience of a believer, not an unbeliever.

Those without Christ simply sin without this kind of internal struggle, since even their good actions are ultimately driven by self-interest rather than a genuine desire to honour God, whether motivated by feeling good, gaining approval, or avoiding consequences.

The conflict Paul describes only exists because believers possess a new nature that genuinely loves God’s law and desires righteousness, while simultaneously still battling the lingering presence of sin within them. This tension, loving truth and holiness while continually being undermined by sin’s persistent influence, marks the distinctly Christian experience that unbelievers simply do not share.

How do you react when you realize your own sin?

For the desire of the flesh is against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, in order to keep you from doing whatever you want.

Galatians 5:17