Romans 7:19
For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.
Original Language Analysis
γὰρ
For
G1063
γὰρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 13
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ὃ
which
G3739
ὃ
which
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
3 of 13
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
θέλω
I would
G2309
θέλω
I would
Strong's:
G2309
Word #:
4 of 13
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 #:
5 of 13
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
ἀλλ'
but
G235
ἀλλ'
but
Strong's:
G235
Word #:
7 of 13
properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)
ὃ
which
G3739
ὃ
which
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
8 of 13
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
θέλω
I would
G2309
θέλω
I would
Strong's:
G2309
Word #:
10 of 13
to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),
Historical Context
Paul's transparent acknowledgment of ongoing moral struggle would resonate with honest believers while exposing perfectionist pretensions. The New Testament consistently portrays sanctification as progressive warfare (Philippians 3:12-14, 1 John 1:8), not instantaneous arrival. Paul's realism provides pastoral comfort without excusing sin or lowering God's standard.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Paul's repeated emphasis on this conflict help you avoid either perfectionist presumption or defeatist resignation?
- Where do you most acutely feel the gap between what you desire (good) and what you accomplish (sometimes evil)?
- How might accepting this tension as normal Christian experience free you to fight sin vigorously without crushing self-condemnation?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do.—This verse reinforces v. 15's chiastic structure, emphasizing the painful contradiction between regenerate desire and imperfect performance. Agathon (ἀγαθόν, "good") contrasts with kakon (κακόν, "evil")—moral opposites that mark the battlefield of Christian experience.
The repetition isn't redundant but emphatic: this conflict is real, ongoing, and characteristic of authentic Christian life. Paul doesn't minimize sin's remaining power or pretend sanctification means instant victory. Instead, he honestly portrays the warfare described in Galatians 5:17: "the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would." This realism prevents both perfectionist pride and antinomian resignation.