Book of Romans - Chapter 7 - Verse 5

When interpreting the verse "For when we were in the flesh, the motions of sins, which were by the law, did work in our members to bring forth fruit unto death," it is important to understand the context in which it is written. The Apostle Paul is discussing the concept of living according to the flesh, which means being guided by sinful desires and instincts. In this state, the law serves to highlight our sinful nature and the consequences of following it. The "motions of sins" refer to the actions and behaviors that stem from our sinful nature, ultimately leading to spiritual death. By contrast, living in the Spirit allows us to overcome the power of sin and experience eternal life. This verse serves as a reminder of the destructive nature of sin when we are not led by the Spirit, and the importance of aligning our lives with God's will to produce fruit that leads to eternal life.

One theological interpretation of this verse is that it highlights the struggle between human desires (flesh) and the moral law of God. The reference to being "in the flesh" points to a state of living based solely on human instincts and desires, which can often lead to sinful behavior. The mention of "motions of sins" suggests that these sinful actions are driven by the law, possibly indicating that the law itself can lead to sin by highlighting what is prohibited. The phrase "bring forth fruit unto death" emphasizes the destructive nature of sin, as it ultimately leads to spiritual death and separation from God. In essence, this verse serves as a reminder of the inherent sinful nature of humanity and the importance of turning away from the flesh and aligning ourselves with the guidance of God's law to avoid spiritual death.