Black Church Tradition Lens Commentary: Romans 7:14-25

## Black Church Tradition Lens Reading of Romans 7:14-25

### Tradition-Specific Interpretation

We read Romans 7:14-25 as a profound testimony of the human struggle between sin and righteousness, a struggle that resonates deeply with our historical and ongoing fight against systemic oppression. This passage acknowledges the tension within, where the desire to do good is often overpowered by the reality of sin — a reality that mirrors the external forces of injustice and dehumanization we confront. We see this as a call to rely not on our flesh but on the liberating power of the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to resist sin and systems of oppression. Paul’s cry for deliverance is our cry, and we affirm that deliverance comes through Jesus, who sets us free both spiritually and socially.

### Key Language Decisions