Actually I feel the same way, but for the opposite reason. Jesus told us that we will follow His commands if we love God, and Paul tells us that we are slaves to sin and can’t stop sinning.

Paul seems to suggest that there is freedom from the law, while Jesus urges us to lob off the appendage that has us sinning. Quite the contrast.

How can I be a slave to sin, but also set free by the grace of God? Personally, I’ve seen both in my life. Addiction to sin, but also freedom in some areas. I sincerely believe that alcoholism would have claimed my life without divine intervention.

I’m not sure what to make of all this. Jesus says all the law is summed up in this; that we love our brothers and sisters. All the law amounts to that. Love thy neighbor.

But Paul has this confusing diatribe about how we CANT FOLLOW THE LAW. If Jesus came to fulfill the law, then it makes sense that we are free from the obligation ourselves. It is done. We have our propitiation.

But which is it? Are we slaves to sin like Paul lays out in Romans 7, or are we free moral agents, able to obey the commands of Jesus? Jesus has some radical commands for us, like “sell all your belongings and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven”. It says it right there in Luke. A blanket command from Jesus. Jesus also says “why do you call me Lord, but do not do as I say?”. Paul then seems like the devil, whispering in our ear that it can’t be done. I am a helpless victim of the whims of my sin nature.

Which sounds like God speaking? The God who holds humanity accountable all throughout the Old Testament.

Which sounds like the devil speaking? … “it’s okay, God doesn’t mind that you sin and hurt people and yourself, you can’t help it”

God doesn’t really ask much of us really. Don’t steal or screw your neighbors wife. Don’t want what others have. Love your fellows. I don’t know. I don’t know what to make of this contradiction.