Romans 2:18 – “if you know his will and approve of what is superior because you are instructed by the law—”
Extended Explanation
This verse is part of Paul’s message to the Jews in his letter to the Romans. He is addressing those who have the law of Moses and take pride in their knowledge of God’s will. Paul points out that they know what is right because they have been instructed in God’s law. However, this knowledge alone is not enough—it must be lived out. He is preparing to show that simply having the law does not make someone righteous before God. True righteousness comes from faith and obedience, not just from knowing what is right.
Historical Context
Paul wrote this letter to the Christians in Rome, which included both Jews and Gentiles. At the time, many Jews took great pride in having the law of Moses, seeing themselves as superior to Gentiles. They believed that knowing God’s law set them apart, yet many failed to practice what they preached. Paul was making the case that being Jewish and possessing the law did not automatically make them right with God. He was building toward the larger point that everyone—Jew and Gentile alike—needs salvation through Jesus Christ.
Theological Implications
This verse touches on an important truth: knowing God’s commands is valuable, but it is not enough on its own. A person must follow and obey God’s will. Paul was exposing the false security some Jews had in their knowledge of the law while they continued to sin. This has theological significance because it shows that salvation is not about what we know but about a transformed heart that responds to God in faith and obedience.
Literary Analysis
Paul’s writing here is structured as part of a larger argument. He is setting up a contrast between mere knowledge and true righteousness. The phrase “approve of what is superior” suggests that these Jews recognized moral truths but were not necessarily living them out. The wording also connects to later verses where Paul confronts hypocrisy among those who have the law but fail to obey it (Romans 2:21-24).
Biblical Cross-References
- James 1:22 – “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”
- Matthew 7:21 – “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”
- Romans 3:23 – “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.”
- Deuteronomy 4:5-6 – Moses instructs Israel to obey God’s commands so they will be a light to other nations.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse is a reminder that knowing God’s Word is important, but it must lead to real obedience. Many Christians today have access to the Bible, listen to sermons, and engage in Bible studies, but knowledge alone does not bring transformation. True faith is expressed through a life that seeks to honor God in both words and actions.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is seen in how He gives His people guidance through His Word. He does not leave us in the dark about His will. However, His love is also righteous—He does not want us to just have knowledge but to truly live in a way that reflects His character. This verse reminds us that a loving God desires an obedient and faithful relationship with His people, not just religious knowledge.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the perfect example of someone who not only knew God’s will but also lived it out completely. He didn’t just teach truth—He embodied it. Jesus repeatedly confronted the religious leaders of His day who knew the law but did not live it (Matthew 23:2-3). Ultimately, Jesus fulfilled the law through His perfect life and sacrificial death, making a way for all people—both Jews and Gentiles—to be made right with God (Matthew 5:17, Romans 10:4).
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- In what ways do we sometimes rely on knowledge of the Bible rather than true obedience?
- How can we make sure that we are not just approving of what is right but actually living it?
- What are some areas in our lives where we might be falling into the same trap as those Paul was addressing?
- How does Jesus’ example help us move from just knowing God’s will to actually doing it?
- How can we encourage each other in our faith to not just be hearers of the Word, but doers?