A treatise of original sin ... proving that it is

ROM. 7. 21. I find then a Law, that when I would do good, Evil is present with me.

ROM. 7. 21. I finde then a Law, that when I would doe good, Evil is present with me.

I Shall not for the present say any more in the general, the may relate to the Explication of this Chapter, especially of that conflict and combat mentioned therein, as also in whose person he describeth it; for all will be fully considered, when we come to speak of the fruit and immediate effects of original sin.

I Shall not for the present say any more in the general, the may relate to the Explication of this Chapter, especially of that conflict and combate mentioned therein, as also in whose person he describeth it; for all will be fully considered, when we come to speak of the fruit and immediate effects of original sinne.

To come therefore immediately to the Text, You may easily perceive that it is part of that paroxysm, and spiritual agony Paul is in between the principles of good and evil, working in him: therefore he saith, [Greek or Hebrew], I find, that is, by experience: As for Grotius, who makes this no more than the combat of conscience with corruption, which may be in natural men, alleging places out of the Poets, and Epictetus, where some have said in the like manner, they knew it was evil they did, and they do not allow it, but yet their frail flesh compelleth them to do it, so that they do not what they would, and what they would not, that they do: As also bringing in a Pagan out of Lactantius, saying, That he sinneth, Non quia velo, sed quia cogor, the flesh being so strong in him. These are but low and philosophical notions, arguing the ignorance of the work, of Gods Spirit in a man, and the repugnancy thereunto by the unregenerate part: But of this more in its time: It is enough for the present to take notice, that Paul saith of himself, That he findeth this in him.