The Apostle Paul personifies Sin and also Death. Sin leads to Death. Sin is a supernatural demonic spirit that was injected into mankind through Adam in the garden of Eden. Sin is an unholy spirit that can lord it over, reign over and deceive people. Rom 5:12; 5:21; 6:12; 6:14; 7:11.
Man cannot overcome Sin by self or human effort. Man cannot dedicate himself to keep the law and overcome this power of Sin. The only way Sin can be defeated is through the cross. A person must die to Sin. Romans 6. This death to Sin is accomplished by the person's faith participation with Christ in His death, burial and resurrection. Rom 6:1-14.