From the MLJ Archive

Romans 7:5-6 - What is the next greatest power after God himself? Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones argues that it is the power of sin. As he breaks down Paul’s message in Romans 7:5-6, Dr. Lloyd-Jones outlines several key terms and defines them in the context of the message. It is essential for the reader to understand the terms in order to understand the apostle’s argument, the apostle’s doctrine of the law, and to understand the doctrine of salvation and sanctification. For instance, the term “flesh” can be defined many ways but Dr. Lloyd-Jones believes that Paul uses this term to refer to the opposite of what it means to have life in the Spirit. Those who are in the flesh are unregenerate and cannot please God. When Paul refers to the “motions of sin,” he is talking about our passions, affections and lusting. All natural appetites were created and given by God, but the law aggravates these appetites and we allow them to control us, which leads to sin and death. However, Christ is working for us in the members of our body. We have died with Christ and have died to the power of sin!