Romans 2:12-13. The Law...

Six times, in two verses, the apostle Paul mentions the law. Paul is referring to the law of Moses, outlined in the Torah. In this letter to the Roman church, Paul addresses the tension between two groups of believers: Gentiles, and Jews. The Gentiles are the ones “who sin apart from the law.’ They didn’t follow Jewish laws.

Those described as ‘who sin under the law,’ in verse 12b, refers to the Jewish Christ-followers. Here are two groups at odds in the Roman church, disputing who will perish from God's judgment and why. Addressing the Jewish Christians, Paul relays that ALL people will be judged according to the degree that God has revealed himself. Those who live knowing the law, yet acting rebelliously; are unrighteous and hypocritical. Paul reminds the members of the Roman church, and believers today, that there is no exclusivity, no heritage, or privilege, which guarantees righteousness, apart from faith in God. This serves as an encouragement and as a reminder of God's impartiality.

In verse 13, Paul says that knowledge of God and his laws (being a “hearer” mentioned in v.13a) doesn't protect against God's judgment and wrath. Understanding the Ten Commandments or living by a self-imposed set of rules, will not justify anyone; it will not shield you from the Lord’s judgment. Instead, if we admit our unrighteousness, choose faith, and declare only God is righteous (this is the doer part, verse 13b) we will be justified before Him.

This is the best news!

In living out these verses today, I'll admit my shortcomings. I can be nearsighted about God's flawlessness. I focus on shortcomings in myself and other believers. I can be cynical and judgmental and unwilling to yield from my own religiosity. Lord, I pray for laser focus on your righteousness and faithfulness. I want to empty my mind of the intrusive, unhelpful thoughts and replace them with Your life-altering words. Amen.

- Jill Fontes

Works cited: (1) New American Standard Bible Zondervan 2020 (2) Michael Coogan, et al. The New Oxford Annotated Bible: NRSV 2010(3) The Life Recovery Bible NLT (4) Scott Clark Romans 2:13 Justified Through Our Faithfulness Heidelblog