Romans 7:7

“What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.”

Context:To understand Romans 7:7 better, it is important to consider the broader context of the chapter and the book of Romans. The Apostle Paul wrote the book of Romans to the believers in Rome, addressing various theological concepts, including sin, salvation, and righteousness.

The Purpose of the Law:In Romans 7, Paul explores the role of the law in revealing sin. He begins by posing the question, “Is the law sin?” The answer is a resounding “No.” Paul emphatically states that the law itself is not sinful but rather reveals sin. The law serves as a standard that exposes human transgression.

Knowledge of Sin:Paul affirms that he would not have recognised sin if it were not for the law. The law provided him with the knowledge of what sin truly is. In this verse, Paul specifically refers to the tenth commandment, “Thou shalt not covet,” which addresses the inner desires and thoughts of the heart.

The Function of the Law:The purpose of the law is not to provide salvation or righteousness, but to expose sin and reveal human moral failure. It highlights our inability to perfectly obey God’s commands, thereby leading us to recognise our need for a Saviour. The law shows us that we fall short of God’s standard and points us towards Jesus Christ.

• Application:Understanding the function of the law can help us appreciate the grace of God more fully. It reminds us of the importance of acknowledging our sins, repenting, and placing our faith in Jesus Christ. The law serves as a mirror that reflects our need for a Saviour and leads us to the redemptive work of Christ on the cross.

In summary, Romans 7:7 emphasises that the law is not sinful but rather exposes sin. It helps us recognise our need for salvation and points us to Jesus Christ as the ultimate solution for our sins.