Keraia
Romans 2

Romans 2:18

The Jews and the Law · Romans 2:17–29
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Translations

Modern
…if you know His will and approve of what is superior because you are instructed by the law;
Traditional
And knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law;
Literal
…and you know the will and approve the things being superior, being instructed out of the law,
Latin
…et nosti voluntatem ejus, et probas utiliora, instructus per legem,

Original

Greek
English
…if you know His will and approve of what is superior because you are instructed by the law;

Notes

Romans 2:17–20

The pride of the Jews reflects Old Testament and Jewish teachings about the privileges and responsibilities God gave to Israel. God gave his law to Israel, formed a special relationship with them, and gave them the task of being a spiritual light to the Gentiles (see Isaiah 42:6–7). Jews were not wrong to enjoy these blessings; their error was in failing to live up to their privileged position.

Romans 1:18–3:20

Paul waits to explain righteousness through faith (see 3:21) until he first teaches about the sinfulness of all people. Both non-Jews and Jews are equally under the power of sin (1:18–32; 2:1–3:8). Because of this, both groups are in the same situation before God. No one can gain God’s favor by their own actions or obedience (3:9–20). All people need God’s saving action, not their own efforts.

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Faith Jew Letter to the Romans Sin

Topics

Formalism: General Scriptures Concerning Hypocrisy: General Scriptures Concerning Hypocrites: Professing but not Practising Instruction: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Self-Righteousness: General Scriptures Concerning Sin: Against Knowledge