The fundamental problem is not the lack of a good set of rules or instructions. The problem is that we are unspiritual, slaves to sin. The problem is not one of not having the right rules, but of having the wrong heart.
We live in confusion because we want to do what is right, but end up doing the exact opposite. Sin is in control and sin lives in us.
Saying that it is sin living in us that causes us to be like this in no way absolves us of responsibility. Rather it is like someone who takes drugs and ends up being addicted. Once they are addicted the addiction takes on a life of its own in the person, but the person is still responsible for being in that state.
The fundamental problem that needs to be dealt with is sin, and it is a twofold problem. On the one hand there is the problem of punishment that we all deserve, and on the other there is the problem of how then can we manage to live a Godly life. On the cross Christ paid the price for us all, dealing with the first problem. By sending the Holy Spirit to dwell in us He dealt with the second one, and in Chapter 8 Paul talks about living by the Spirit.
We were in an absolute mess, but as Paul says in 7:25, "Thanks be to God who has delivered us though our Lord Jesus Christ".
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