Romans 2: 1-11

Introduction The book of Romans is the longest and the most systematic letter written by the apostle Paul in the New Testament. The theme of Romans is the revelation of God’s judging and saving righteousness in the gospel of Jesus Christ. Judgment in the New Testament was misconstrued among the unrighteousness of the Jews until Paul’s message clarified the meaning of God’s judgment and kindness. The focus will be on this practically passage, Romans 2: 1-11. It is vital to understand the correct identification of this passage, the analysis of literary style and characteristics of both the book of Romans and the passage, the cultural and historical background, the appropriate exegetical approach, the identification and explanation of any
He wrote it to give them a concrete theological foundation on which to construct their faith and to live for and serve God effectively. Paul’s epistolary letters puts emphasis on propositional statements in the book of Romans. Romans contains all of the standard features of biblical epistle, including the salutation, thanksgiving, body, paraenesis, personal greetings, and benediction. What distinguishes the letter is its long and carefully constructed body, which presents a sustained theological argument. It is filled with theological ideas and vocabulary. The rhetoric is frequently grand, taking such forms as elaborate sentence construction (syntax) and patterns of verbal repetition. This genre known as diatribe was used extensively by Romans teachers and preachers. The traits of the form included the following: dialogue with hypothetical questioners or opponents; as part of that, question-and-answer constructions, sometimes catechism- like in effect; use of questions or hypothetical objections as a transition to the next topic; rhetorical questions, adducing famous and representative figures from the past. The book is unified primarily by the coherence of its central argument, which outlines and explains the external plan of God for the salvation of sinners. Paul’s letter, Romans, acknowledges information on many topics and answers relevant questions, such as
For in passing judgment on another you condemn yourself, because you, the judge, practice the very same things.” God judge those that judge others that commit the same sins as those they judge themselves. All people are without excuse because all have sinned against God. Romans 2:2, “We know that the judgement of God rightly falls on those who practice such things.” Those who sin will face judgement from God. Romans 2:3, “Do you suppose, O man- you judge those who practice such things and yet do them yourself- that you will escape the judgement of God?” The Jews are not exempt from God’s judgement. Romans 2:4, “Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?” Paul most likely was referring to the Jews who thought that their covenant relationship with God would shield them from final judgment. Romans 2:5, “But because of your hard and impenitent heart you are storing up wrath for yourself on the day of wrath when God's righteous judgment will be revealed.” Repentance is needed to avert God’s wrath. Jews believed that their covenant with God kept them in good standing but Paul disagreed. Romans 2: 6-7, “He will render to each one according to his works: to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory and honor and immortality, he will give eternal life.” God will reward His meek and