Romans 7:7

What then shall we say? Is the law sin? Certainly not! Indeed, I would not have been mindful of sin if not for the law. For I would not have been aware of coveting if the law had not said, "Do not covet."

Study Bible

What then shall we say?
This phrase introduces a rhetorical question, a common technique used by Paul to engage his audience. The Greek word for "say" (λέγω, legō) implies a thoughtful consideration or conclusion. Paul is inviting the reader to ponder deeply the implications of the law in relation to sin, setting the stage for a profound theological discussion.

Is the law sin?
Here, Paul anticipates a potential misunderstanding of his previous teachings. The Greek word for "law" (νόμος, nomos) refers to the Mosaic Law, which was central to Jewish life and identity. By asking if the law is sin, Paul addresses a critical question about the nature and purpose of the law. Historically, the law was given to guide and instruct God's people, not to be equated with sin itself.

Certainly not!
This emphatic denial (Greek: μὴ γένοιτο, mē genoito) is one of Paul's strongest rejections of an idea. It underscores the importance of understanding that the law, in its essence, is holy and righteous. Paul is adamant that the law is not sinful; rather, it serves a divine purpose.

Indeed, I would not have been aware of sin
The phrase highlights the law's role in revealing sin. The Greek word for "aware" (γινώσκω, ginōskō) suggests an experiential knowledge. Paul is expressing that the law acts as a mirror, reflecting the sinful nature of humanity. Without the law, there would be no clear understanding of what constitutes sin.

if it had not been for the law
This clause emphasizes the necessity of the law in defining sin. The law acts as a boundary marker, delineating right from wrong. Historically, the law was given to Israel to set them apart as God's chosen people, providing a standard of holiness.

For I would not have been aware of coveting
Paul uses the specific example of coveting to illustrate his point. The Greek word for "coveting" (ἐπιθυμία, epithymia) refers to a strong desire or lust. This particular sin is internal and often hidden, demonstrating how the law exposes even the most secret sins of the heart.

if the law had not said, 'Do not covet.'
By quoting the commandment "Do not covet," Paul refers to the Tenth Commandment (Exodus 20:17). This commandment is unique because it addresses the internal attitude rather than external actions. It shows that God's law penetrates beyond behavior to the intentions and desires of the heart. The law, therefore, serves as a tool for self-examination and conviction, leading believers to recognize their need for a Savior.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Paul
The apostle who authored the letter to the Romans, addressing the role of the law in understanding sin.

2. The Law
Refers to the Mosaic Law, which includes commandments given to the Israelites, such as "Do not covet."

3. Sin
The moral failing or transgression against God's law, which Paul discusses in relation to the law's role in revealing sin.

4. Romans
The recipients of Paul's letter, a Christian community in Rome, grappling with the relationship between law and grace.

5. Coveting
A specific sin mentioned by Paul, highlighting the law's role in identifying sinful desires.

Teaching Points

The Law's Purpose
The law is not sinful; rather, it reveals sin. Understanding this helps us appreciate the law's role in God's plan.

Awareness of Sin
The law acts as a mirror, showing us our sinful nature and our need for redemption through Christ.

Coveting and the Heart
Coveting is a heart issue, and the law helps us recognize internal sins, not just external actions.

Grace and the Law
While the law reveals sin, grace through Jesus Christ provides the solution, leading us to repentance and transformation.

Living by the Spirit
As believers, we are called to live by the Spirit, which empowers us to overcome the sinful desires the law reveals.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does understanding the purpose of the law change your perspective on sin and grace?

2. In what ways can recognizing covetous desires in your heart lead to spiritual growth?

3. How can the law serve as a guide in your daily walk with Christ, even though you are under grace?

4. What practical steps can you take to live by the Spirit and not by the desires of the flesh?

5. How can you use the insights from Romans 7:7 to help others understand the relationship between the law and sin?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 20:17
The commandment "Do not covet" is part of the Ten Commandments, which Paul references to illustrate the law's role in identifying sin.

Galatians 3:24
Paul describes the law as a tutor leading us to Christ, emphasizing its purpose in revealing sin and our need for a Savior.

James 1:14-15
Discusses how desire leads to sin, paralleling Paul's point about coveting and the law's role in revealing sinful desires.

1 Timothy 1:8-10
Paul explains the lawful use of the law, which is to expose sin and guide the unrighteous.

Psalm 19:7-11
Celebrates the law's perfection and its role in enlightening the soul, aligning with Paul's view of the law as revealing sin.