Can Believers Truly Overcome Sin?
In this article, you will learn how Galatians 5:24 contradicts Romans 7:15, Romans 7:18-19, Romans 7:22-23, 1 John 1:8, Ecclesiastes 7:20 and Philippians 3:12. Find the translations at the bottom of the page..
The teachings of Paul and other biblical authors present a fascinating paradox about the nature of sin and the believer's relationship to it. Galatians 5:24 paints a hopeful picture: followers of Jesus should strive to deny their sinful desires as a way to express their love for Him. It's akin to saying that, with strong resolve, they can nail their sinful inclinations to the cross.
However, Romans 7 tells a different story. In verses 15, 18-19, and 22-23, Paul depicts a profound internal struggle. Despite knowing and delighting in God's law, he finds himself trapped by his own shortcomings. It's like a person who wants to eat healthily but finds themselves perpetually drawn to junk food, experiencing frustration with their own lack of control. This seems to contradict the decisive action described in Galatians, where believers are urged to "crucify the flesh" and its passions.
Further complicating the issue, 1 John 1:8 warns against claiming to be without sin, suggesting that acknowledging one's imperfections is crucial to walking in truth. This resonates with the wisdom of Ecclesiastes 7:20, which admits the imperfection of even the most righteous individuals.
Meanwhile, in Philippians 3:12, Paul himself acknowledges not having reached perfection. It's like a runner acknowledging they're not yet at the finish line, despite putting in a sincere effort.
So, what are believers to make of these seemingly contradictory messages? On one hand, they're encouraged to overcome sin, but on the other, they're reminded of their inherent imperfections. This tension invites reflection: Is the spiritual journey more about the process than perfection? Can the act of striving itself be considered triumph? These questions underscore the complex yet enriching narrative of faith, where victory over sin is both a goal and an ongoing journey.
| # | Verse | Translation |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Galatians 5:24 | And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. [affections: or, passions] |
| 2. | Romans 7:15 | For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. [allow: Gr. know] |
| 3. | Romans 7:18-19 | For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but [how] to perform that which is good I find not. |
| 4. | Romans 7:22-23 | For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: |
| 5. | 1 John 1:8 | If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. |
| 6. | Ecclesiastes 7:20 | For [there is] not a just man upon earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not. |
| 7. | Philippians 3:12 | Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. |