Is Romans 7 describing the experience of a believer or an unbeliever?
Romans 7 describes the believer's experience, not the unbeliever's. Paul explains that the believer still wrestles against the influence of the old Adamic nature, even though God has reckoned it crucified and dead. The two natures conflict, but the old nature is defeated and under subjection to the new nature.
Les explains that Romans 7 is written from the believer's point of view. God saw every true believer in Christ at the cross, in the grave, and in resurrection, so believers have newness of life. Yet Paul describes the believer's ongoing struggle: the old Adamic nature, though reckoned crucified and declared dead, still influences experience. It is defeated and placed under the subjection of the new nature. This is where all believers find themselves, even as believers (Romans 7:15). The confusion of doing what one hates is explained by these two natures, and Les points to Galatians 5:16-17 for further clarification.
For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.
More Questions
Why should believers look at Paul's dilemma in Romans 7?
Looking at Paul's dilemma in Romans 7 can comfort believers that they are not alone when they know they should do something but don't do it, and when they know they shouldn't do certain things but do them.