Romans 7:23 Meaning and Explanation
“But 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.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Paul sees a rival law in his body fighting against the law his mind loves, taking him captive to the law of sin.
What Does Romans 7:23 Mean?
Against the inward delight of the previous verse, Paul sees another law at work in his bodily members. It wages war on the law of his mind and seeks to drag him captive to the law of sin. The language is of open conflict, two powers contending for one person.
Here the struggle reaches its fiercest point. The renewed mind loves God's law, yet a hostile power fights to enslave. This is real warfare, not playacting, and no soldier wins it by wishing. The very intensity of the battle cries out for an ally stronger than the self. Paul has brought the conflict to its peak so that the Deliverer's name will land with full relief.
Romans 7:23 in the Original Language
antistrateuomenon (ἀντιστρατευόμενον), 'warring against' -- to campaign or wage war in opposition, a military image.
Frequently Asked Questions About Romans 7:23
What does Romans 7:23 mean?
Paul sees a rival law in his body fighting against the law his mind loves, taking him captive to the law of sin.