Commentary on Romans 7:2

Romans 7:2 (KJV): "For the woman which hath an husband is bound by the law to her husband so long as he liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is loosed from the law of her husband."

Introduction

This verse serves as a critical juncture in the Apostle Paul's argument regarding the law and its relationship to believers in Christ. Paul employs the analogy of marriage to illustrate the believer's relationship to the Mosaic Law. It is crucial to comprehend not only the cultural context of 1st-century Judaism but also the theological implications behind Paul's teaching.

The Law and Marriage Analogy

Matthew Henry explains that in this passage, Paul uses the law of marriage as a teaching aid to clarify how believers are freed from the law through Christ. Henry states that just as a woman is bound to her husband while he lives, so too, believers are bound to the law while under its dominion. However, the death of the husband represents the believer's death to the law through the body of Christ, thereby allowing a new relationship to emerge.

Adam Clarke elaborates on this metaphor by indicating that the bond created by marriage is a sacred and lifelong commitment unless death intervenes. Clarke emphasizes that the law serves a similar purpose before the coming of Christ; it binds believers until they are spiritually 'released' by faith in Christ's redemptive work.

Interpretative Insights

• Fulfillment of the Law: Paul argues that through Christ's death and resurrection, the law's authority is rendered ineffective for those who are in Christ. This view aligns with Albert Barnes, who underscores that the law's binding nature ceases when one becomes a part of the new covenant.
• Understanding of Freedom: There is a profound aspect of freedom that comes from this release from the law. It is not a liberty to sin but an empowerment to live righteously. This principle resonates with Henry's assertion that true freedom is found in obedience to God rather than in a mere absence of law.
• Gender Dynamics in Context: Clarke provides a necessary cultural context, delving into the gender roles of the time. While the analogy uses a woman bound by law, it also reflects on the implications of spiritual fidelity that both sexes must exhibit in their relationship with God.

Theological Implications

Theologically, this passage elucidates the transformation brought forth by the spirit. Henry conveys that the Christian life is a shift from legalism to a relationship marked by grace, emphasizing that believers must bear fruit not through adherence to law but through the love and grace of God working in them.

Barnes draws out another layer of understanding by stressing the importance of commitment. As believers are released from the law through Christ’s work, they are called to a life that honors this new allegiance, offering themselves to God rather than reverting to their former bondages.

Application for Believers

For pastors, students, and theologians, Romans 7:2 presents an invaluable teaching tool regarding grace and obedience:

• Encouragement in Christ: Understand that in Christ, the weight of the law has been fulfilled. Embrace the freedom from the past and encourage others to recognize their new identity in Him.
• Transformation of Relationship: Explore and teach the significance of transformative relationships in Christ. Help congregations develop a deeper connection to Him that informs their actions and lifestyles.
• Fostering Spiritual Growth: Promote spiritual disciplines that are motivated by love rather than obligation. Help believers go beyond a simplistic understanding of rules and engage in a deeper relationship with God.

Conclusion

Romans 7:2 offers a profound insight into the believer's relationship with the law and God. The analogy of marriage serves not only to clarify the implications of the law's binding nature but also highlights the transformative power of Christ. As one delves into this verse, it is essential to appreciate the depth of meaning that emerges—conveying not only legalistic release but also the call to a new, grace-filled existence aimed at fruitful living.