Albert Barnes Commentary Romans 7:21

"I find then the law, that, to me who would do good, evil is present." — Romans 7:21 (ASV)

I find then a law. I experience the operation of this law whenever I attempt to do good. There have been various opinions about the meaning of the word law in this context. It is evident that the word is used here in a somewhat unusual sense. However, it retains the meaning commonly associated with it: that which binds or controls.

And though what he refers to here differs from a law, since it is not imposed by a superior (which is the usual idea of a law), it nevertheless has the character of a law to the extent that it binds, controls, influences, or is that to which he was subject.

There can be no doubt that he refers here to his carnal and corrupt nature—to the evil propensities and dispositions that were leading him astray. His representation of this as a law is consistent with everything he says about it: that it is servitude, that he is in bondage to it, and that it impedes his efforts to be holy and pure.

The meaning is this: "I find a habit, a propensity, an influence of corrupt passions and desires, which, when I wish to do right, impedes my progress and prevents me from accomplishing what I wish to do." Compare to Galatians 5:17. Every Christian is as acquainted with this as was the apostle Paul.

Do good. That is: to do right; to be perfect.

Evil. That is: some corrupt desire, improper feeling, or evil propensity.

Is present with me. This means it is near; it is at hand. It starts up unbidden and undesired. It is in our path and never leaves us, but is always ready to impede our progress and turn us from our good designs. Compare to Psalm 65:3: Iniquities prevail against me. The sense is that doing evil is agreeable to our strong natural inclinations and passions.