What does 'let not' mean in Romans 6:12?
In Romans 6:12, 'let not' implies a choice left to the believer's free will. It is not a forced command but a decision: the believer can choose not to let old Adam continue to reign in their mortal body. It underscores personal responsibility.
Les teaches that the phrase 'let not' in Romans 6:12 is built on the word 'let,' which implies choice rather than a forced command. Building on Romans 6:11, where believers are told to reckon themselves dead to old Adam but alive to God through Jesus Christ, the believer is left with free will. As a believer, you have the choice of not letting old Adam continue to reign in your mortal body. Les notes that this is the dilemma of many unhappy believers: they are miserable because old Adam is still controlling them, yet he doesn't have to. The admonition is to be led of the Spirit, live profitable lives, bring honor and glory to God, and keep old Adam in subjection.
Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.