Romans 7:19 – “For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing.”

Extended Explanation

Paul is continuing his discussion about the deep struggle between his desire to do good and the reality of sin still present in him. In this verse, he describes the frustration of knowing what is right but still failing to do it.

This verse can be broken into two key ideas:

1. Paul desires to do good. He is not rebelling against God or rejecting His commandments. He truly wants to live in a way that pleases God. This shows that his heart has been changed—he no longer desires sin like he once did.
2. Despite his desire, he still sins. Paul admits that he sometimes ends up doing the very things he hates. Even though he wants to obey God, his sinful nature still fights against him.

This is a raw and honest confession. Even one of the greatest apostles—someone who devoted his life to spreading the gospel—struggled with sin. This verse reminds us that sin is not just about actions; it is a power at work within us. It also reassures believers that they are not alone in their struggles.

Historical Context

Paul was writing to believers in Rome, both Jews and Gentiles. Many Jewish Christians had grown up with the belief that following the law would make them righteous. Paul had to correct this misunderstanding. He had already explained that the law is good, but it cannot save anyone because sin is too powerful.

Paul’s words also resonated with Gentile Christians. Many of them had come from idol-worshiping backgrounds and were trying to live in a new way as followers of Jesus. They likely struggled with old habits and temptations, just as Paul describes here.

Paul himself knew this battle personally. Before becoming a Christian, he was a Pharisee who strictly followed the law (Philippians 3:5-6). Yet even with all his religious devotion, he later realized that sin was still at work within him.

This verse was important for both Jewish and Gentile believers to understand—righteousness is not about trying harder; it is about relying on God’s grace.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several foundational truths about sin and human nature:

1. Even believers struggle with sin. Paul’s words make it clear that becoming a Christian does not mean instant perfection. The struggle with sin continues.
2. Desiring to do good is not enough. Paul wanted to do good, but that desire alone did not give him the power to resist sin.
3. Sin is still at work in human nature. Even though Christians are forgiven, they still live in a fallen world and battle against their old sinful tendencies.
4. The Christian life requires dependence on God. Paul’s struggle points to the need for something greater than human effort—believers need the power of the Holy Spirit to truly overcome sin.

This verse reminds us that sin is not just a behavioral issue—it is a deep-rooted problem that only God can fix.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s writing in this verse is deeply emotional and personal:

• “For I do not do the good I want to do.” This phrase highlights Paul’s frustration. He knows what is right, and he sincerely wants to follow God, but something keeps pulling him in the wrong direction.
• “But the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing.” The repetition emphasizes the ongoing nature of this struggle. Sin is not just a one-time failure; it is a battle that continues day after day.

This verse is part of a larger passage (Romans 7:14-25) where Paul is building toward an important conclusion: the law alone cannot change a person. He is preparing to reveal that only Jesus Christ can provide true victory over sin.

Biblical Cross-References

• Galatians 5:17 – “For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.” (The struggle between sin and the Spirit.)
• Psalm 51:10 – “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (The need for God to change the heart.)
• Romans 8:2 – “Because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.” (The power of the Holy Spirit to overcome sin.)
• 1 John 1:8-9 – “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” (Honest confession and God’s grace.)

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

Many believers feel discouraged when they continue to struggle with sin. This verse reassures them that even Paul, one of the most devoted followers of Christ, experienced the same battle.

This struggle is actually a sign of spiritual life. Before salvation, people do not battle sin in this way because they are not convicted by it. But after becoming a Christian, the Holy Spirit brings awareness of sin and the desire to change.

However, this verse also warns against trying to defeat sin by human effort alone. Many people think they just need to “try harder” to be good, but Paul’s words show that this is not enough. Victory comes not from willpower but from relying on Jesus and the Holy Spirit.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is shown in the fact that He does not condemn believers for their struggles. Instead, He patiently works with them, guiding them toward transformation.

This verse also reveals God’s kindness in giving believers the Holy Spirit. Rather than leaving them to struggle alone, He provides strength, conviction, and grace to help them grow.

Instead of expecting immediate perfection, God’s love is shown through His patience and His willingness to work in the lives of His people over time.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus is the answer to the problem Paul describes:

• Jesus provides righteousness by faith. Since believers cannot perfectly obey God on their own, Jesus gives them His righteousness (2 Corinthians 5:21).
• Jesus gives the Holy Spirit to help believers. The struggle Paul describes does not end in defeat—Jesus provides the power to overcome sin (Romans 8:11).
• Jesus offers grace when believers fail. Even when Christians fall short, they can come to Him for forgiveness and restoration (Hebrews 4:16).

Paul’s words in this verse lead up to his ultimate conclusion: “Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Romans 7:24-25).

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Have you ever felt like Paul—wanting to do good but still falling into sin? How did you handle it?
2. Why do you think it is so hard to consistently do what is right?
3. How does this verse encourage you when you feel frustrated by your spiritual struggles?
4. What are some ways you can rely on Jesus and the Holy Spirit instead of trying to overcome sin by your own strength?
5. How does this verse deepen your understanding of God’s grace and patience?

This verse is a powerful reminder that the Christian life is a battle, but it is not a hopeless one. Through Jesus, believers find the strength, forgiveness, and transformation they need to walk in victory.