Bible Strands
Romans 7:16
And if I do what I do not want to do, I admit that the law is good.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — Paul addresses the Roman believers, describing his internal conflict between desire and action at a moment of moral struggle. He speaks as a former law-keeper now observing his inability to fulfill the law's demands.
The words — The Greek σύμφημι (sumphēmi) means "I consent" or "I admit," indicating Paul's acknowledgment of the law's validity. The verb ποιῶ (poiō) "I do" contrasts with θέλω (thelō) "I want," highlighting the disconnect between intention and action.
The thread — The affirmation that the law is good echoes Romans 7:12 and 1 Timothy 1:8, which both declare the law good or holy. This theme continues in Romans 7:14, where the law is described as spiritual despite the speaker's unspiritual state.
Why it lands — The text requires the reader to confront the reality of moral failure without excusing it or blaming the law. It demands honest acknowledgment of the law's goodness while recognizing the power of sin at work.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.
Cross-references
- Romans 7:12 So then, the law is holy, and the commandment is holy, righteous, and good.
- Romans 7:14 We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin.
- 1 Timothy 1:8 Now we know that the law is good, if one uses it legitimately.
- Psalms 119:127 Therefore I love Your commandments more than gold, even the purest gold.
- Romans 7:22 For in my inner being I delight in God’s law.