In Romans 7 What Does Paul Mean By Being Sold Under Sin?
Understanding "Sold Under Sin" in Romans 7
One of the most thought-provoking passages in the New Testament is found in Romans 7, where the Apostle Paul writes about the struggle with sin. In particular, Romans 7:14 states:
For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. - Romans 7:14 ASV
This phrase, "sold under sin," has sparked much discussion among Bible readers and scholars. What does Paul mean by this? Let's look closer at the context, the meaning, and the implications for believers.
The Context of Romans 7
Romans 7 is part of a larger argument that Paul is making about the law, sin, and the believer's relationship to both. Paul has just explained in Romans 6 that believers are dead to sin and alive to God through Jesus Christ (Romans 6:11 ASV). However, he also acknowledges the ongoing struggle with sin in the Christian life.
Paul uses himself as an example, describing an internal conflict: he desires to do what is right, but finds himself doing what he hates (Romans 7:15 ASV). This leads to his declaration of being "sold under sin."
What Does "Sold Under Sin" Mean?
The phrase "sold under sin" uses the imagery of slavery and bondage. In Paul's time, to be "sold" meant to be under the complete control of a new master. Paul is expressing the reality of humanity's fallen nature: apart from Christ, every person is under the power and rule of sin.
For I know that in me, that is, in my flesh, dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me, but to do that which is good is not. - Romans 7:18 ASV
Paul is not denying the power of the Holy Spirit or the victory believers have in Christ (which he celebrates in Romans 8). Rather, he is honestly describing the experience of the believer who, while saved, still lives in a fallen body and struggles with the remnants of sin.
Paul's Personal Experience or Universal Truth?
There is some discussion about whether Paul is describing his pre-Christian life or the ongoing struggle of a believer. Many interpreters see this as Paul's personal experience as a Christian, illustrating the battle between the new nature in Christ and the old sinful nature. This view is supported by the present tense Paul uses throughout the passage.
Paul’s words resonate with every believer who has ever felt the pull of sin even after coming to faith in Christ. Even though we are justified and freed from sin’s penalty, the presence of sin remains until we are glorified.
Christ: The Only Deliverer
Paul’s struggle reaches a climax in Romans 7:24:
Wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me out of the body of this death? - Romans 7:24 ASV
He immediately answers his own question with hope:
I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then I of myself with the mind, indeed, serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin. - Romans 7:25 ASV
Paul points to Jesus Christ as the only one who can deliver us from the power and presence of sin. This theme continues in Romans 8, where he proclaims victory for all who are in Christ (Romans 8:1 ASV).
Key Takeaways
- The law exposes our sinfulness but cannot set us free from sin’s power (Romans 7:7 ASV).
- Being "sold under sin" describes the reality of indwelling sin in our flesh, even as believers.
- Victory is not found in our own strength but in Jesus Christ, who delivers us and empowers us to walk in the Spirit (Romans 8:2 ASV).
If you have ever felt discouraged by your own struggle with sin, take heart: the struggle itself is evidence of the Spirit’s work in you. God has provided victory through Jesus Christ!