Romans 8:7
For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot.
English Standard Version (ESV)
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The verse emphasizes that the "mind of the flesh" isn't just against God's law; it cannot be submitted to it. This isn't about a lack of trying, but a fundamental inability, like a river flowing uphill, because its very nature is active rebellion against God's authority.
Paul is explaining why a mind set on sinful desires leads to death, as stated in the previous verse. He clarifies that this "mind of the flesh" is fundamentally opposed to God, unable to obey His law, and therefore inherently in conflict with Him, not just a casual acquaintance who sometimes disagrees.
Ever feel like there's a war going on inside you? Paul calls it 'the mind of the flesh.' What does that really mean for your daily life?
The phrase 'mind of the flesh' isn't just about indulging in bad habits; it's a deeper disposition. It means your primary focus, your core way of thinking, your desires and motivations are centered on yourself and the world around you, rather than on God.
Paul doesn't just say the mind of the flesh is against God; he calls it 'enmity.' What’s the difference, and why is that so significant?
The word 'enmity' here is powerful. It's not just a casual disagreement or a passing dislike. It signifies a deep-seated, personal hostility that is inherent and irreconcilable.
Understand the original words
echthra · Greek Noun
Open opposition or enmity; a state of being an enemy. In a biblical context, it describes the rebellious posture of the unregenerate heart against the sovereign rule and character of God.
nomos · Greek Noun
The instruction of God, reflecting His holy character and will for humanity. While often associated with the Mosaic Law, it represents the standard of righteousness that God demands, which the flesh is inherently incapable of satisfying.
This passage describes the profound corruption of humanity's inner being, echoing Paul's idea that the 'mind of the flesh' is inherently flawed and contrary to God's will.
Matthew 22:37-39Jesus highlights the law's core commands to love God and neighbor, which the 'mind of the flesh,' as described in Romans 8:7, is incapable of truly submitting to.
John 8:43Jesus tells the crowd they cannot understand His word because they are unable to 'hear my word,' paralleling Romans 8:7's assertion that the carnal mind 'cannot' submit to God's law.
1 Corinthians 2:14This verse states that the 'natural person' does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, connecting directly to the idea in Romans 8:7 that the mind set on the flesh is hostile to God and His ways.
James 4:4James declares that 'friendship with the world is enmity with God,' reinforcing Paul's point in Romans 8:7 that the mind aligned with fleshly desires is fundamentally at odds with God.
cambridgeRomans 8:7: "Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be."
7 . Because ] The reason of the radical difference of the two “minds” is now further shewn by a description of the essential condition of the “mind of the flesh.” the carnal mind ] Lit. the mind of the flesh ; the same phrase in Gr. as that rendered “to be carnally minded,” Romans 8:6 . enmity ] Cp. ch. Romans 5:10 . The expression here is as forcible as possible. As trul…
clarkeRomans 8:7: "Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be."
Because the carnal mind is enmity against God - Because it is a carnal mind, and relishes earthly and sinful things, and lives in opposition to the pure and holy law of God: therefore, it is enmity against God; it is irreconcilable and implacable hatred. It is not subject to the law of God - It will come under no obedience; for it is sin, and the very principle of rebelli…
The verse emphasizes that the "mind of the flesh" isn't just against God's law; it cannot be submitted to it. This isn't about a lack of trying, but a fundamental inability, like a river flowing uphill, because its very nature is active rebellion against God's authority.
Paul is explaining why a mind set on sinful desires leads to death, as stated in the previous verse. He clarifies that this "mind of the flesh" is fundamentally opposed to God, unable to obey His law, and therefore inherently in conflict with Him, not just a casual acquaintance who sometimes disagrees.
Paul is explaining why a mind set on sinful desires leads to death, as stated in the previous verse. He clarifies that this "mind of the flesh" is fundamentally opposed to God, unable to obey His law, and therefore inherently in conflict with Him, not just a casual acquaintance who sometimes disagrees.
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Paul states bluntly that the mind of the flesh 'cannot' submit to God's law. What does this radical statement mean for us?
This is perhaps the most challenging part of the verse: the inability of the fleshly mind to submit to God's law. This isn't about a lack of effort or a minor hurdle; it points to a fundamental moral inability.
"For the mind that is set on the flesh is hostile to God, for it does not submit to God’s law; indeed, it cannot." — The verse emphasizes that the "mind of the flesh" isn't just against God's law; it cannot be submitted to it. This isn't about a lack of trying, but a fundamental inability, like a river flowing up…
