Lecture on Romans 7 and the Christian Struggle with Sin

Introduction

• Date and Event: June 18, 1815, man at Winchester Cathedral waiting for news on the Battle of Waterloo.
• Signal Misinterpreted: Initial signal “Wellington defeated” caused gloom. Clear message later: “Wellington defeated the enemy,” bringing joy.
• Analogy: Similar to Christian’s internal conflict with sin.

Paul’s Teaching in Romans 7

• Main Focus: Wrestling for inward Holiness
  • **Inward Delight (v. 22)
  • Inward Dilemma (vv. 23-24)
  • Inward Deliverance
• Experiential Religion: Focus on internal struggle and transformation.

Martin Luther and Psalms

• Prophetic Insight: The Psalms reveal saints' hearts.
• Paul’s Struggle: Romans 7 reflects Paul's inner conflict between spirit and flesh.

Contradiction of Teachings

• Misinterpretation: Some believe Romans 7 reflects Paul before conversion. This view is contested by the use of present tense and spiritual language.
• Reformed Vigilance: Guard against over-confidence and neglecting the real struggle with sin.

Key Takeaways

Inward Delight

• Aspiration: Paul’s delight in God’s law (v. 22).
• Third Use of the Law: Living out God’s commandments as a delight, not a burden.
• Biblical Piety: Genuine love for God's law and command to live obediently.

Inward Dilemma

• Ongoing Struggle: Despite being saved, Christians face continual inner conflict.
• Personal Experience: Paul describes this battle as a “law in my members” against the “law of my mind” (v. 23).
• John Owen and Sin: Sin is relentless, always attempting to return and disrupt.
• Christian Attitude: Must be vigilant and reject sin's intrusion. Fight or flee based on personal spiritual strength.

Inward Deliverance

• Hope in Christ: Paul looks forward to deliverance through Jesus Christ (v. 24-25).
• Victor in Christ: Despite present struggle, ultimate victory is assured.
• Romans 7 and 8: Complements each other; struggles in 7 lead to victories in 8.
• Analogy with 1815: Initial defeat (struggle) leads to ultimate victory (deliverance).

Application

1. Continual Humility: Romans 7 keeps us humble and reliant on Christ.
2. Progress in Sanctification: Struggles are essential for spiritual growth.
3. Dependence on Holy Spirit: Essential for true sanctification and guiding through the struggle.
4. Promised Deliverance: Trust in God's word and promises for deliverance.
5. External Support: Look to Christ for strength in fighting the good fight of faith.

Conclusion

• Real Insight: Understanding the real Christian life involves recognizing and wrestling with sin but relying on Christ for ultimate deliverance.
• Encouragement: Take heart in the struggle, knowing victory in Christ is assured.

Prayer

• Closing Prayer: Asking for God’s blessing, encouragement, and deliverance through Jesus Christ for ongoing spiritual battles.

Emoji: 🙏