Romans 2:18
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Romans 2:18
18 And knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law;
Chapter Context
Romans 2 is a theological epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of obedience, fellowship, judgment. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 57 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Christians in Rome navigated tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers under imperial watch.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-29: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it addresses timeless questions about faith, suffering, and divine purpose. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Romans and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Romans 2:18
18 And knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law;
Analysis
And knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law—γινώσκεις τὸ θέλημα καὶ δοκιμάζεις τὰ διαφέροντα κατηχούμενος ἐκ τοῦ νόμου (ginōskeis to thelēma kai dokimazeis ta diapheronta katēchoumenos ek tou nomou). Γινώσκω (ginōskō, "know") indicates intimate knowledge of God's will through Torah. Δοκιμάζω (dokimazō, "test/approve/discern") means critically evaluating to determine what's superior. Τὰ διαφέροντα (ta diapheronta, "the things that differ/excel") could mean distinguishing between options or recognizing what's superior.
Being instructed out of the law—κατηχούμενος ἐκ τοῦ νόμου (katēchoumenos ek tou nomou). Κατηχέω (katēcheō, "instruct/teach") gives us "catechism." Jews received systematic Torah instruction from childhood, learning to distinguish clean/unclean, sacred/profane, ethical/unethical. This was genuine privilege (Romans 3:1-2, 9:4-5), but knowledge without obedience becomes condemnation rather than commendation.
Paul acknowledges legitimate Jewish advantages: knowing God's will through Scripture, ability to discern moral excellence, comprehensive religious education. These aren't fabrications but real benefits of covenant status. However, verses 21-24 will expose the tragedy: possessing truth without living it, teaching righteousness while practicing sin, bearing God's name while blaspheming it through hypocrisy. Knowledge increases accountability (Luke 12:47-48); to whom much is given, much is required.
Historical Context
Jewish education emphasized Torah from childhood. Boys attended synagogue schools learning Hebrew, memorizing Scripture, studying rabbinic interpretation. The Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-9) commanded teaching children diligently. By Jesus's era, Jews prided themselves on superior moral knowledge versus Gentile ignorance. Jesus confronted this in John 5:39-40: searching scriptures while rejecting the One they testified about. Knowledge became end rather than means, fostering pride instead of humility.
Reflection
- Do I possess knowledge of God's will (biblical literacy) without corresponding obedience, treating theology as intellectual exercise rather than life transformation?
- How does my ability to 'approve the things that are more excellent' translate into choosing them, or do I merely recognize what's right while doing what's wrong?
- In what ways does being 'instructed' in Scripture create pride or presumption rather than gratitude and responsibility?
Word Studies
- Law: νόμος (Nomos) G3551 - Law
Cross-References
- Word: Deuteronomy 4:8
- Parallel theme: Philippians 1:10, 1 Thessalonians 5:21, James 4:17