Lutheran Lens Commentary: Romans 7:14-25

Lutheran Lens Reading of Romans 7:14-25

Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read this passage as a vivid illustration of the tension between Law and Gospel that defines the Christian life. Paul expresses the struggle of the simul justus et peccator, as he is simultaneously justified by faith and yet bound by the old Adam. This passage exposes the reality of the bondage of the will under sin, as the Law reveals our inability to fulfill God's commandments. Yet, in the closing verse, we find a transition to the Gospel's promise through Christ Jesus our Lord, who delivers us from this body of death. This is the theology of the cross, where Christ's suffering and resurrection become our hope amidst our ongoing struggle with sin.

Key Language Decisions

The Greek term 'sarkinos' (fleshly) emphasizes the human condition's weakness and corruption, aligning with our understanding of original sin. The phrase 'kata sarka' (according to the flesh) underscores the bondage of the will, as Paul describes his actions being contrary to his desires. The language of 'eleutheroo' (deliver) in verse 25 signifies the Gospel's power to set us free, pointing to Christ's completed work. These linguistic choices reinforce the Law's accusatory role and the Gospel's freeing promise.

Where Traditions Diverge

We differ from traditions like Wesleyan Arminianism, which may emphasize human cooperation with grace, by insisting on the bondage of the will and the necessity of divine initiative in salvation. Unlike Reformed traditions that may focus on the perseverance of the saints, we emphasize the ongoing struggle with sin and the need for continual return to the Gospel's promise. Our reading emphasizes the distinction between Law and Gospel, rather than merging them into a single process of moral improvement.

Pastoral Application

In preaching this text, we must allow the Law to do its full work, exposing the hearers' inability to achieve righteousness on their own. Yet, we swiftly move to the Gospel, proclaiming that Christ has delivered us from this body of death. We remind our congregation that even in their struggle, they are justified by faith, and this justification is not a process but a completed work in Christ. Our people should leave knowing they are both fully sinful and fully righteous, trusting not in their ability to overcome sin but in Christ's victory for them. The sacraments, especially the Lord's Supper, are emphasized as means of grace that continually assure us of God's promise.

Cross-References: Galatians 5:17, highlighting the conflict between flesh and Spirit; Romans 8:1, emphasizing no condemnation for those in Christ; Philippians 2:13, illustrating God working in us to will and act according to His purpose; Ephesians 2:8-9, underscoring salvation by grace through faith; John 15:5, pointing to our dependence on Christ for any good work

Doctrinal Connections: simul justus et peccator; bondage of the will; justification by faith alone; theology of the cross; original sin; sanctification as a fruit of justification