What is Paul teaching about the old Adam?
Paul teaches that the old Adam is what is in the believer opposite the new nature, and it constantly works to cause sin. Believers must keep old Adam in subjection, feed the new divine nature, and put him down so they sin not, because grace is not licensed.
Les explains that the old Adam is the opposing force within the believer. Although the new nature is divine and cannot sin, the old Adam is constantly working on us to sin and succeeds too often. Paul’s instruction is to turn from the instincts of old Adam, put him down, and keep him under control so that we sin not. Believers are not supposed to sin, and grace is not licensed. Paul has the Corinthian church in mind, where some were carnal believers lacking the knowledge of God.