For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
Read it in contextThe conflict described
Start reading at Romans 7:14 (Romans 7:14 to Romans 7:25).
An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
The account of inward conflict leads to the cry for deliverance and thanksgiving through Jesus Christ, preparing the movement into chapter 8.
7:14For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin.
7:15For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.
7:16If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.
7:17Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
7:18For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not.
7:19For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
7:20Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.
7:21I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.
7:22For I delight in the law of God after the inward man:
7:23But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.
7:24O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?
7:25I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.
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Who
Who wrote the book? Paul the apostle wrote Romans, using Tertius as the scribe who put the letter into writing. Biblical references: Romans 1:1; Romans 16:22. stated in the text
Who was present or being addressed in this passage? In the surrounding chapter context (Romans 6:1–8:39): Paul addresses believers in Rome, speaking of their baptism into Jesus Christ and life in the Spirit. These instructions and promises belong to his argument for people who belong to Christ. stated in the text
Who was the book written to? The believers in Rome, called saints: a church including Gentile and Jewish believers. Paul specifically addresses Gentiles, speaks to those who know the law, and assumes Christian baptism and life in the Spirit; he is not addressing an undifferentiated modern public. Biblical references: Romans 1:7; Romans 6:3; Romans 7:1; Romans 8:9; Romans 11:13. stated in the text
What
What is the topic of this reading unit? The conflict described. Read Romans 7:14 through Romans 7:25 as a connected unit. interpretation
How does it contribute to the book? The account of inward conflict leads to the cry for deliverance and thanksgiving through Jesus Christ, preparing the movement into chapter 8. interpretation
When
When are the events or message set? Paul writes while planning further travel, including a visit to Rome. The letter does not supply a modern calendar date; reconstructions depend on comparing its travel notices with other texts. book background
Where
What is the book’s geographic setting? The addressees are at Rome. Paul discusses other locations and travel plans, while the letter itself does not directly name the city where he is writing. book background
Where does the context start?
This passage sits in The conflict described (Romans 7:14 to Romans 7:25).
Start reading at Romans 7:14. An editorial reading unit, not a claim that the surrounding context stops here. Book background below applies to the shared passage; individual verses may need more specific explanation.
How
How does this book connect with Jesus Christ? The letter explains the gospel of Jesus Christ, baptism into His death, life in the Spirit, and hope of glory. Promises in Romans 8 address those in Christ and stand with the chapter's stated conditions. See Romans 1:7, Romans 6:3, Romans 8:9, Romans 8:13, Romans 8:17. interpretation
How should this book guide our response? Read the argument as a connected appeal to an addressed church. Keep obedience, continuing in God's goodness, and warnings against presumption visible when speaking of grace, inheritance, and assurance. interpretation
What Scripture saysPaul names himself in the opening verse, and Tertius names himself as the scribe. Romans 1:1Romans 16:22
Early traditionUniform tradition names Paul.
Macro-Structure
See how this passage fits the chapter and the book.
Romans 7
Prefilled outline, not yet reviewed.
Paul addresses the saints at Rome. His promises and exhortations belong to a letter that already speaks of baptism into Christ, newness of life, and the indwelling Spirit; identify the addressed people and retain the stated conditions.
Connection to the wholeThe marriage illustration explains release from the law through Christ's death, directing the readers toward service in newness of spirit.
Connection to the wholeThe account of inward conflict leads to the cry for deliverance and thanksgiving through Jesus Christ, preparing the movement into chapter 8.
interpretation
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.
Romans
Auto-generated or draft outline, not yet reviewed.
Paul addresses the saints at Rome (Romans 1:7). Read this outline alongside his discussion of baptism into Christ and newness of life (Romans 6:3–4).
Connection to the wholePaul introduces his calling and his desire to visit Rome, then announces the gospel as the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes.
Connection to the wholePaul describes human sin and God’s judgment, bringing Jews and Gentiles under the charge of sin and establishing humanity’s need.
Connection to the wholePaul explains righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, uses Abraham as an example, and contrasts Adam’s offense with Christ’s obedience.
Connection to the wholePaul rejects continuing in sin, recalls baptism into Christ’s death, discusses sin and the law, and describes walking after the Spirit and the hope of glory.
Connection to the wholePaul considers Israel’s place in God’s purpose, the response of faith, and mercy toward Jews and Gentiles. He warns Gentile believers against boasting and urges them to continue in God’s goodness.
Connection to the wholePaul moves to offering oneself to God, serving others, loving one’s neighbour, and receiving one another while seeking peace and edification.
Connection to the wholePaul explains his ministry and travel plans, commends and greets fellow workers, warns against divisions, and closes with praise to God.
interpretation
Suggested literary divisions. Headings summarize the passage; they are not part of the biblical text.