What does Romans 2:15 mean?

Explanation

Romans 2:15 speaks to the existence of a moral compass within all human beings, regardless of their familiarity with or adherence to the biblical law.

This compass, or moral law, is metaphorically written in their hearts and is accompanied by a conscience that either accuses or defends their thoughts and actions.

This suggests that even without explicit knowledge of the law given by God through scripture, humans inherently have a sense of right and wrong that guides their behavior and judges their actions internally.

Historical Context

The Apostle Paul wrote the Letter to the Romans around 57 A.D., addressing both Jewish and Gentile believers in Rome.

During this time, there was a prevailing tension between Jewish Christians who were adherents of the Mosaic Law and Gentile Christians who were not bound by these laws.

Paul is making an argument against reliance solely on the law for justification and pointing out that the Gentiles, who did not have the law, showed that the essence of the law was inscribed on their hearts.

Theological Insights

Different theological interpretations of this verse include:

Reformed Theology

Reformed theologians may see this as evidence of God's common grace, where God gives all humans a conscience, enabling them to know inherently what is morally right and wrong.

Catholic Theology

The Catholic Church teaches that this verse affirms the existence of the natural law, a law inherent in human nature, accessible to human reason, and a reflection of the eternal law of God.

Arminian Theology

Arminianism may emphasize the free will of individuals to follow the moral law written in their hearts, viewing the conscience as a tool given by God to make morally responsible choices.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse can be used to encourage individuals to listen to their conscience when making decisions, reminding them that they have an intrinsic guide for moral judgments.

It also serves as a call to empathy by recognizing this shared moral foundation across humanity.

Cross-References

• Romans 1:20: "For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:"
• Romans 9:1: "I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost,"
• Hebrews 10:22: "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water."

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek language of the New Testament for this verse include:

• "Heart" (καρδία - kardia): Not just the physical organ, but the central or innermost part of a person, including thoughts and feelings.
• "Conscience" (συνείδησις - syneidesis): The self-awareness of right and wrong that governs a person's thoughts and actions.
• "Accusing" (κατηγορούντων - kategoreo): To charge or blame.
• "Excusing" (ἀπολογούμενοι - apologeomai): To defend or give a reason for actions.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The concept of a universal moral law can also be found in other cultures and religions, such as the Dharma in Hinduism, the Tao in Taoism, and the concept of Ma'at in ancient Egyptian religion.

Each of these embody a perception of a moral order that transcends human-legislated laws.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, moral psychology and evolutionary biology explore the idea of morality as an evolutionary adaptation for social living.

Some scientists speculate that moral feelings and conscience could be a result of natural selection for cooperation within a species.

Commentaries

Commentary on Romans 2:15 varies among scholars.

• John Calvin views this verse as evidence of the natural law available to all, which leaves humanity without excuse for their sin.
• Matthew Henry emphasizes that the Gentiles having the law written in their hearts was an advantage, demonstrating the work of the law by their conscience.
• More contemporary scholars like N.T.

Wright suggest that this verse reflects a common moral awareness among humans but that this does not replace the need for salvation through Christ.