Lesson 464: Romans 7:18
The Blueprint — The Verse
I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my flesh; for I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.
Memorization Practice
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The Context — The History
explores the believer's struggle with sin after coming to know God's law through faithTrust in God’s character, promises, and guidance — choosing confidence in Him even when circumstances are uncertain. More. PaulAlso known as the Apostle Paul or Saul of Tarsus, he is the most influential missionary and writer of the New Testament. Originally a Pharisee who persecuted Christians, Paul experienced a dramatic encounter with the risen Jesus and became a devoted messenger of the gospel. He traveled widely, planted churches across the Roman world, and wrote letters that form a... More wrote to a church navigating identity in Christ within a pagan imperial city.
The Narrative — The Lead-Up
PaulAlso known as the Apostle Paul or Saul of Tarsus, he is the most influential missionary and writer of the New Testament. Originally a Pharisee who persecuted Christians, Paul experienced a dramatic encounter with the risen Jesus and became a devoted messenger of the gospel. He traveled widely, planted churches across the Roman world, and wrote letters that form a... More described the law as holy but sin seizing opportunity through the commandment. He confessed the war within: desiring good yet failing to do it, finding evil present when he wanted to obey.
The Echo — Follow-on Verses
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So now it is no more I that do it, but sin which dwells in me.
Shown in World English Bible (WEB).
Read the verse immediately before this lesson () to hear the lead-in to the passage.
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For the good which I desire, I don’t do; but the evil which I don’t desire, that I practice.
Shown in World English Bible (WEB).
Read the verse immediately after this lesson () to continue the passage.
Discussion
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How does Paul's honesty about inner conflict encourage you?
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What is the difference between struggling with sin and excusing it?
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Why is admitting 'I cannot carry it out' a step toward grace?