how to understand "sin dwelleth in me"?

 To understand the phrase "sin dwelleth in me," as presented in the sources, it's essential to examine the biblical and theological perspective on the nature of sin within humanity and the subsequent internal struggle.

Firstly, the phrase originates from the Apostle Paul's declaration in Romans, where he states, "For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin". He elaborates, "For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me". He continues this thought, observing, "For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me". Paul recognizes a "law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members". This portrays a profound internal conflict, where even a desire to do good is thwarted by an inherent, active presence of sin.

The sources clarify that this "indwelling sin" is not merely an external influence but a deep-seated corruption within human nature. David, in Psalm 51, confesses, "Behold, I was shapen in iniquity; and in sin did my mother conceive me", suggesting a congenital inclination toward sin. The "unconverted heart is the habitation of the evil one, and it is filled with unholy thoughts, with evil surmisings, envy, jealousy, falsehood, and uncontrolled passions, with strife and confusion and every evil work". This inner evil includes "pride of heart, love of the world, love of ease, selfishness, covetousness, envy, jealousy, lust, hatred, and every evil". It is described as a "deceitfulness of sin" that hardens the soul and paralyzes spiritual faculties. The "selfishness of the natural heart" is said to underlie good desires and aspirations, often remaining "unsubdued". Sin also has a "perverting influence" that can obscure the law of God written in hearts and dim impressions of truth.

The consequence of this indwelling sin is an inherent human inability to overcome it by one's own strength. As Paul lamented, "I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me", leading him to cry out, "O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?". The sources repeatedly emphasize that "without Christ ye can do nothing", and "No human invention can find a remedy for the sinning soul". It is impossible for humans to "make a single virtue in ourselves", or "remove one stain of sin from his soul". Relying on self or "human impulse and natural inclination" leads to failure and being "sold under sin". Even earnest endeavors and self-denial, as experienced by figures like Wesley, are insufficient to "free themselves from the condemnation of sin or to break its power". This internal struggle against hereditary and cultivated tendencies to wrong is described as "painful and discouraging".

However, the sources present a clear remedy for this indwelling sin: Jesus Christ. The goal is not to be saved in sin, but from sin. The indwelling sin is countered by Christ dwelling within the believer. This transformation involves:

• Realization of Sinfulness: A crucial first step is to "know yourself to be a sinner". The closer one comes to Jesus and beholds His "spotless perfection," the more clearly one discerns their "own weakness and defects" and "moral deformity". This realization leads to "contrition" and a "deep-seated love for Jesus".
• Confession and Forsaking Sin: "Whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy". Confession, especially to God and those wronged, is vital for "cleans[ing] from all unrighteousness".
• Surrender of Self and Will: The "old man is not dead" and "self must die", allowing Christ to "live in you". This requires "submission of the soul to Christ" and yielding one's will to God's will.
• Faith in Christ's Righteousness: Humanity can lay hold of the "righteousness of Jesus Christ" by "living faith". Christ's "matchless love" and "infinite sacrifice" are the basis for pardon and cleansing. "The blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin".
• Cooperation with the Holy Spirit: While humans cannot change themselves, they have the "power of choice" and must "cooperate with God". The Holy Spirit imparts repentance, reveals defects, and provides strength to overcome temptations.

When sin is thus overcome, it results in a thorough transformation of character and life. This involves "purity of heart, innocence of mind", "a new heart", and becoming a "partaker of the divine nature". The individual develops "Christlike self-denial and self-sacrifice, Christlike patience and gentleness", and their actions and words will reflect the "fragrance of the righteousness of Christ". This continuous work of "sanctification" is "not the work of a moment, but of a lifetime", leading to a daily "victory over selfishness in all its forms" and a desire to "walk in the light" and "do the right". When a person "cease[s] from sin", they demonstrate a changed character, becoming "vessels unto honor" and reflecting Christ to the world.