Romans 7:16
If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.
Original Language Analysis
ὃ
which
G3739
ὃ
which
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
3 of 12
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
θέλω
I would
G2309
θέλω
I would
Strong's:
G2309
Word #:
5 of 12
to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),
ποιῶ
I do
G4160
ποιῶ
I do
Strong's:
G4160
Word #:
7 of 12
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
νόμῳ
unto the law
G3551
νόμῳ
unto the law
Strong's:
G3551
Word #:
10 of 12
law (through the idea of prescriptive usage), genitive case (regulation), specially, (of moses (including the volume); also of the gospel), or figurat
Historical Context
Paul continues building his case that this conflict characterizes Christian, not pre-Christian, experience. Agreement with law's goodness marks regenerate hearts; the unregenerate mind is 'enmity against God' (8:7). This distinction matters enormously for pastoral care—believers struggling with sin need encouragement and power (Spirit), not regeneration (they have it).
Questions for Reflection
- How does recognizing that your struggle with sin actually evidences regenerate consent to God's law encourage you?
- What's the difference between failing to achieve what you desire versus not desiring God's standard at all?
- How might misdiagnosing regenerate struggle as unregenerate rebellion lead to either despair or works-righteousness?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.—Symphēmi (σύμφημι, "agree with/consent to") means to acknowledge jointly. The very fact that Paul does what he hates proves he agrees with law's goodness—his will aligns with law even when his performance falls short. This is crucial evidence for the regenerate interpretation: the unregenerate don't consent that law is good; they're hostile to God's law (Romans 8:7).
This verse demonstrates the regenerate heart's fundamental orientation toward God's standard despite failure to achieve it consistently. The problem isn't will-alignment (which regeneration accomplished) but power-deficit (which Spirit-empowerment addresses, chapter 8). The believer's struggle isn't whether to obey but how to accomplish the obedience desired.