Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Romans 7:20

"But if what I would not, that I do, it is no more I that do it, but sin which dwelleth in me." — Romans 7:20 (ASV)

At the outset Paul wants it understood that he is not depreciating the law, for it is “spiritual” (GK 4461)—that is, emanating from God (vv.22, 25), who is Spirit . The law reflects the character of God. Godly people recognize this fact (“we know”).

“But I am unspiritual.” What a stark contrast! The word “unspiritual” is literally “fleshly” , what I am in myself. I am not subject to the law and therefore I am in rebellion against God, since the law is from him. (The problems as to whether Paul speaks individually or universally here and as a saved or an unsaved man will be dealt with at the close of this chapter.)

Then Paul moves on to a second description more wretched than the first: “sold as a slave to sin.” This strikes the keynote of what follows, down to the anguished cry, “Who will rescue me...?” (v.24). The slavery extends to the totality of his being. It numbs and blinds him, for he confesses that he does not know what he is doing (v.15). This is a graphic picture, one of a slave going through certain motions under the authority of a master. Whatever obedience there seems to be is really not a matter of volition, but something almost mechanical. Paul feels forced to carry out what he does not want to do, what he really hates, whereas what he would like to do never seems to materialize (v.15).

The failure to do what he desires must not be attributed to a wrong attitude toward the law, such as indifference or defiance, since he concurs in the verdict that the law is praiseworthy (v.16). Rather, doing things contrary to the law must be traced to the power of sin working within him (v.17). Paul is not attempting to escape responsibility, but is putting his finger on the real culprit—indwelling sin. The invader has managed to secure more than a foothold; he roams the place, considering it his home. In putting the matter like this, Paul has moved from a consideration of outward acts to an emphasis on the unwanted tenancy of sin. With this alien master in control, no matter how strongly he wants to do the good, he finds himself checkmated. He cannot carry it out (v.18). Verse 19 is a virtual repetition of v.15; v.20 of v.17.