A Study of Romans (3)

Judgement (v. 1 - 5)

Faithlife Study Bible Chapter 2

The use of “you” and the question-and-answer style suggest that Paul is using a rhetorical device called a diatribe, a hypothetical conversation that provides instruction.

The Lexham Bible Dictionary Diatribe

DIATRIBE A Graeco-Roman literary style characterized by a question-and-answer structure; used in much literature of the period, including New Testament letters (especially Paul’s).

Who was Paul addressing in chapter 2, remember in order to grasp the meaning of a scripture you must understand the context, the majority of theologians believe, passed on context that Paul was addressing the Jewish people in Rome;

Why, because they felt superior to the Gentiles - by having the law and a covenant with God - even though they were acting out the same sins as the Gentile;

The CSB Study Bible made this clear statement “No one is without excuse”, when you know Christ you know truth, therefore you know the consequences;

Sin equals judgement and condemnation;

However, God’s grace should lead to repentance - turning away from sin - not just a get out jail free card;

Works (v. 6 - 10)

These verses may seem controversial at first reading however take a moment to dig in to what Paul is saying;

Verse 6, quoting several passages, says: who “will render to each one according to his deeds”

The New King James Version. (1982). (Ro 2:6). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.

Now let’s look at salvation (justification) which is an immediate joining together with Jesus Christ and the immediate indwelling of the Holy Spirit (God’s Spirit) therefore making you a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17);

Now because of this “joining together” your desires and thought patterns should begin to shift away from the old you and into a desire to be Christ like through your actions (deeds);

Favoritism (v. 11)

This verse may wreck some peoples world, God don’t have favorites;

Many people walk around with “I’m better than you attitude” when comes to there Christendom, they are judgmental, they are critical, and they are sometimes down right mean;

Some people feel that by being joined with Christ they can act like the world and still be good “cause I got Jesus”, however let’s look at what Paul has to say about that in Romans 6:15 says: 15 What then? Shall we sin because we are not under law but under grace? Certainly not!

The New King James Version. (1982). (Ro 6:15). Nashville: Thomas Nelson.

God is righteous, His judgement comes from His righteousness, therefore He does not pick sides;

But what about the Jews, His chosen people, read the book of Revelation and you will see they are judged more harshly because of their knowledge of Him;

Our love of God should pull us towards His nature therefore giving us a desire to serve Him through our actions.