New Testament
Romans 7:2
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For a married woman is bound by law to her husband while he is alive. But if her husband dies, she is released from the law regarding her husband.
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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.
What Romans 7:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Paul explains the legal bond of marriage. A woman is legally tied to her husband as long as he is alive. This means she cannot marry another man while he is still living. However, if her husband dies, she is no longer bound by that law and is free to remarry. This illustrates the concept of being released from obligations when the circumstances change, particularly in the context of marriage. Paul uses this analogy to discuss the relationship between believers and the law, indicating that just as a woman is freed from her marriage law upon her husband's death, believers are freed from the law through the death of Christ. This emphasizes the transformative power of faith and the new life believers have in Christ, which is not bound by the old laws.
How to apply Romans 7:2 to your life
This verse encourages us to understand the nature of our commitments and the freedom we have in Christ. Just as a widow is free to remarry, we are liberated from the constraints of the law through Jesus. This freedom allows us to live a new life guided by the Spirit rather than by old rules.
Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary
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At a Glance — the Book of Romans
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 57
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians in Rome
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Romans 7:2 mean?
Romans 7:2 explains that a married woman is legally bound to her husband while he is alive. If her husband dies, she is released from that legal obligation and is free to remarry.
What is the meaning of being 'bound by law' in Romans 7:2?
Being 'bound by law' in Romans 7:2 means that a woman is legally tied to her husband and cannot marry another man as long as he is alive. This illustrates the seriousness of marriage commitments.
How does Romans 7:2 relate to freedom in Christ?
Romans 7:2 illustrates that just as a widow is free to remarry after her husband's death, believers are freed from the law through the death of Christ. This signifies a new life in faith, unbound by previous obligations.
What themes are present in Romans 7:2?
Key themes in Romans 7:2 include marriage, law, freedom, death, obligation, transformation, and faith. These themes highlight the relationship between legal commitments and spiritual freedom.
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