Exploring Paul’s Experience of Evil in Romans 7:19

Romans 7:18 states, ldquo;I can will what is right but I cannot do it.rdquo; This is followed by Romans 7:19, ldquo;For I do not do the good I want but the evil I do not want is what I do.rdquo; Paul is reflecting on the internal struggle and the unyielding power of sin within believers. His experience is one that resonates with many, a stark contradiction between the desire to do good and the actual doing of evil.

Understanding the Spiritual Conflict

The conundrum described by Paul is a fundamental aspect of the spiritual life of Christians. Man, under the influence of sin, longs to do what is right but finds himself consistently unable to fulfill this noble aspiration. The struggle is not merely one of external actions but also a battle within the heart and mind. This internal strife is a universal experience, shared by both believers and non-believers alike.

The Nature of Evil in Believers

What constitutes this evil that resists our will? It can manifest in various forms: mistreating others, consuming excessively, being lazy, or harboring unforgiveness. Essentially, evil is any behavior that goes against what we know to be right and just. It is a part of the fallen nature that plagues every human being, regardless of religious belief or ethical disposition.

Paul’s Preconversion Experience under the Law

Paul’s struggle with evil in Romans 7 has a specific context: his experience before his conversion. Paul, who was previously governed by the law, is sharing his journey. The repeated mention of ldquo;lawrdquo; in this chapter underscores this preconversion background. As Christians, we are not levied under the law but under grace. This transformative grace frees us from the bondage of sin, offering a new life and a new way of living.

The Role of Grace in Overcoming Evil

It is crucial to understand the role of grace in this struggle. While Paul might have been under the law, the Christian is now under grace. This grace does not negate our ongoing fight against evil but equips us to overcome it. It offers us the strength, the wisdom, and the support to live according to Godrsquo;s will. Paul’s experience, therefore, serves as a powerful testament to the promise of grace, which empowers believers to fight against the evil within their hearts.

Conclusion

In examining Paulrsquo;s experience with evil in Romans 7:19, we find a poignant illustration of a universal struggle. Despite our desires to do good, sin continually disrupts our efforts. However, it is through the grace of God that we are given the means to overcome this evil and fulfill the good that we wish to do. This truth is a source of profound comfort and inspiration for all believers, reminding us that in our struggles, we are never alone.