Romans 7:16

16 If then I do that which I do not desire, I approve that the law is good.

Romans 7:16 Meaning and Commentary

Romans 7:16

If then I do that which I would not
This is a corollary, or an inference from what he had related of his own experience; that since what he did, though it was contrary to the law of God, yet was what he did not will nor allow of, but hated, it must be a clear point, that he

consented to the law, that it was good;
lovely and amiable; that it forbad those things which were hateful, and commanded those things which were desirable to a good man; and so is acknowledged to be a very beautiful rule of obedience, walk, and conversation.

Romans 7:16 In-Context

14 For we now know that the law is spiritual, but I am carnal, sold unto subjection by sin.
15 For that which I do, I do not understand, and not even the good that I desire is what I do; but what I hate, that is what I do.
16 If then I do that which I do not desire, I approve that the law is good.
17 So that it is no longer I that do it, but sin that dwells in me.
18 And I know that in me (that is, in my flesh) dwells no good thing; for I have the desire, but I am not able to perform that which is good.
The Jubilee Bible (from the Scriptures of the Reformation), edited by Russell M. Stendal, Copyright © 2000, 2001, 2010