¹⁷ Well, then; if, in seeking to be declared “righteous” in the Messiah, we ourselves are found to be “sinners,” does that make the Messiah an agent of “sin”? Certainly not! ¹⁸ If I build up once more the things which I tore down, I demonstrate that I am a lawbreaker.

¹⁹ Let me explain it like this. Through the law I died to the law, so that I might live to God. I have been crucified with the Messiah.