Romans 7 is, of course, the chapter to which most theologians appeal in discussions about the apostolic teaching on indwelling sin. Though there has been plenty of debate about whether Paul was speaking of himself prior to his conversion or in the place of Adam, the “indwelling sin in believers” interpretation of this passage is that which was held by most early church theologians, the Reformers, English Puritans, and the majority of 18th, 19th and 20th Century Reformed theologians.

The doctrine of indwelling sin is one of the most important doctrines a Christian can diligently study. If we are going to make progress in growth in grace, we must gain a right understanding of indwelling sin. If we are going to be resolved to fight against the remainder of sin in our flesh, until we are in glory, then we need a right assessment about the prevalence and perniciousness of indwelling sin. If we are to preserve in or regain assurance of our salvation, we have to come to terms with the inevitability of indwelling sin. Just as we need to know what the Scriptures teach about the doctrine of depravity, original sin, actual sin, regeneration, justification, adoption, definitive sanctification, and progressive sanctification, so we need to know what the Scriptures teach about the remainder of indwelling sin in every part of our being.

Romans 7 is, of course, the chapter to which most theologians appeal in discussions about the apostolic teaching on indwelling sin. Though there has been plenty of debate about whether Paul was speaking of himself prior to his conversion or in the place of Adam, the “indwelling sin in believers” interpretation of this passage is that which was held by most early church theologians, the Reformers, English Puritans, and the majority of 18th, 19th and 20th Century Reformed theologians. In Romans 7:14-25, Paul is speaking post-conversion about the struggle that he found within his own heart regarding his inability to obey God as he wished on account of the remaining presence of sin within “the body of his flesh.” Without wishing to get into the nuances of disagreement over the meaning of the passage, I would encourage you to read John Piper’s incredibly helpful 10 point defense of the “indwelling sin” view of Romans 7.

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