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how does this passage compare with paul's ideas about the 'flesh' and temptation?

The passage, plainly, with room to sit with it.

Romans 7:18-19

For I know that in me, that is, in my flesh, dwells no good thing; for a desire to do that which is good is present with me, but I don’t find it so as to do that which is good. For the good which I desire, I don’t do; but the evil which I don’t desire, that I practice.

The Apostle Paul, writing to the church in Rome around the mid-1st century CE, is describing an intense internal struggle within himself. This passage comes after he has discussed the role of the Law and sin, leading into his famous exploration of life by the Spirit.

How does understanding this internal struggle shape what you expect from yourself and others?

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Read alongside it

  • Galatians 5:16-17

    Paul contrasts the desires of the 'Spirit' and the 'flesh' as constantly opposing forces.

  • James 1:13-15

    Describes how internal desires (not God) lead to temptation and sin.

  • Romans 8:5-8

    Explains the consequences of living according to the 'flesh' versus the 'Spirit'.

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