Contradiction with Galatians 5:16
This verse encourages walking in the Spirit to avoid fulfilling the lust of the flesh, suggesting that it is possible to consistently choose good over evil.
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 one can do all things through Christ, implying a believer can overcome the struggle with sin described in Romans 7:19.
Philippians 4:13: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
Contradiction with 1 John 5:4
This verse claims that those born of God overcome the world, presenting a victorious stance that contrasts the struggle of doing evil in Romans 7:19.
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]
Contradiction with 2 Timothy 1:7
This verse tells of a spirit of power, love, and sound mind, which contradicts the helplessness in maintaining good described in Romans 7:19.
2 Timothy 1:7: For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.
Contradiction with 1 Corinthians 15:57
This verse refers to God giving victory through Jesus Christ, contradicting the defeat in failing to do good mentioned in Romans 7:19.
1 Corinthians 15:57: But thanks [be] to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Paradox #1
Some might see a contradiction between this verse and the idea that Christians are transformed and no longer struggle with sin. While this verse speaks about the ongoing struggle with doing what is right, some teachings emphasize that believers are renewed and have the power to overcome sin. This apparent conflict lies in balancing the reality of human imperfection with the transformative effect of faith.
Paradox #2
Romans 7:19 might seem to contradict the idea that believers can live a completely righteous life because it reflects the struggle between wanting to do good and the tendency to do wrong. This can appear inconsistent with passages that encourage or imply Christians can achieve holiness or sinlessness through faith and the power of the Holy Spirit. However, many interpret this as highlighting the ongoing human struggle with sin, even for believers, rather than a contradiction.
Paradox #3
Romans 7:19 discusses the struggle between wanting to do good and doing the opposite. Some people see a contradiction because it suggests a conflict in human nature: wanting to follow moral laws but often failing. Others might view it as inconsistent with the idea of being fully transformed through faith, as it highlights ongoing internal struggle. This tension can generate debate about human behavior, free will, and spiritual growth.
Paradox #4
The contradiction in that verse can be seen as the struggle between knowing what is right and still doing what is wrong. It highlights the internal conflict between our intentions and our actions, suggesting a gap between moral understanding and behavior.