Contradiction with 1 John 3:9
This verse states that whoever is born of God does not commit sin, contradicting Romans 7:15 where Paul expresses his struggle with doing what he hates.
1 John 3:9: Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. [is born: or, has been born]
Contradiction with Galatians 5:16
This verse advises walking by the Spirit to avoid fulfilling the lust of the flesh, whereas Romans 7:15 depicts an ongoing battle between desire and action.
Galatians 5:16: [This] I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. [ye...: or, fulfil not]
Contradiction with Philippians 4:13
This verse states that through Christ, one can do all things, which contrasts with Paul’s seeming inability to do what he wills in Romans 7:15.
Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Contradiction with 2 Corinthians 5:17
This verse says that anyone in Christ is a new creature, implying a transformation that seems at odds with the struggle described in Romans 7:15.
2 Corinthians 5:17: Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. [he is: or, let him be]
Contradiction with 1 John 5:4
This verse claims that whoever is born of God overcomes the world, which contradicts the ongoing internal struggle expressed in Romans 7:15.
1 John 5:4: For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, [even] our faith. [is born: Gr. has been born]
Paradox #1
Some people see a contradiction in this verse because it reflects an internal struggle: a person wants to do good but ends up doing what they don't want. This seems inconsistent with the idea of being fully transformed and renewed by faith. It raises questions about how much change is possible or expected in a believer's behavior and how sin can still have an influence.
Paradox #2
Romans 7:15 is often seen as highlighting human struggle with sin and the conflict between intention and action. There could be a perceived inconsistency when compared to passages that emphasize Christian victory over sin, such as those suggesting believers can live righteously through the Spirit. This apparent contradiction can cause confusion about whether Christians should expect ongoing internal conflict or be able to fully overcome sinful behaviors.
Paradox #3
The possible contradiction in Romans 7:15 could relate to the idea of human free will versus the struggle with sin. Some may see a conflict between having control over one's actions and feeling powerless to do what they believe is right. This can be confusing when considering other teachings that emphasize strong personal responsibility and choice.
Paradox #4
The conflict in this verse is the struggle between knowing what is right and wanting to do it but finding oneself doing the opposite. This reveals a tension between intentions and actions, highlighting human weakness and internal conflict.