I have been battling through the idea of the law recently, and so I looked in Romans to get some clarity. Now I think I'm more confused than before (which is not always a bad thing; I know I'll struggle through it until I find a satisfying conclusion). So I started reading chapter 7, and came up with so many questions: What exactly does Paul mean when he talks about sin "seizing an opportunity through the commandment" yet "the law is holy, and the commandment is holy and righteous and good"? And isn't it possible to serve God both with the mind and body, rather than, as Paul states, "I myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin"? Does the law refer to the Old Testament law or to legalism? Or both? And if Jesus is the fulfillment not the abolishment of the law, then what does that mean for me in regards to being free from the law?
There aren't any deep thoughts to obtain from this post. However, I'd appreciate yours. If you have insight, commentary, or Scriptural cross-references for Romans 7, I'd love to know...please comment!