It is very strange what happens in my mind as I listen to these truths, all of a sudden it will click for me and I begin to feel peace and joy, then in an instant I’m like wait what did he say here and I feel a little confused. Please pray for me. There is definitely a struggle taking place.
Agree, probably best to keep it simple. True either way. Thank you. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you replying to me. I’ve never imagined being able to have dialogue with the actual author of a book I’m reading!!!
I’m preaching this Saturday in Church, really want to share this. Let me ask you this? Is it possible the “I” of Romans 7 was Paul while he was under the law as a Pharisee but not yet in Christ? 7:1 says he is writing to those who know the law. I’m leaning on starting here. Cause honestly I used to feel like the wretched man but I don’t anymore. More I’m the Romans 8 guy!!
I do think it's possible that this described Paul as a Pharisee. I made this point explicitly in the first edition of the book but removed it, only because I am not certain of it, and it opens up a can of worms that I didn't think was necessary. (For instance, does an unregenerate Jew desire to obey the Lord from a place of purity? Can they rightly distinguish themselves from their sin? If so, upon hearing the gospel, did they not need a change of heart like the gentiles did? etc.) What I am certain of is that whatever kind of person Paul is describing here is someone who desires to obey God but cannot because they are still operating under the law. So I try to keep it at that.
It is very strange what happens in my mind as I listen to these truths, all of a sudden it will click for me and I begin to feel peace and joy, then in an instant I’m like wait what did he say here and I feel a little confused. Please pray for me. There is definitely a struggle taking place.
Praying now that the Lord would help you understand! He is your faithful Teacher! And don’t hesitate to ask if you have any specific questions!
Agree, probably best to keep it simple. True either way. Thank you. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate you replying to me. I’ve never imagined being able to have dialogue with the actual author of a book I’m reading!!!
Of course!
I’m preaching this Saturday in Church, really want to share this. Let me ask you this? Is it possible the “I” of Romans 7 was Paul while he was under the law as a Pharisee but not yet in Christ? 7:1 says he is writing to those who know the law. I’m leaning on starting here. Cause honestly I used to feel like the wretched man but I don’t anymore. More I’m the Romans 8 guy!!
Awesome, I am very excited for you!
I do think it's possible that this described Paul as a Pharisee. I made this point explicitly in the first edition of the book but removed it, only because I am not certain of it, and it opens up a can of worms that I didn't think was necessary. (For instance, does an unregenerate Jew desire to obey the Lord from a place of purity? Can they rightly distinguish themselves from their sin? If so, upon hearing the gospel, did they not need a change of heart like the gentiles did? etc.) What I am certain of is that whatever kind of person Paul is describing here is someone who desires to obey God but cannot because they are still operating under the law. So I try to keep it at that.
Very practical!