What does Romans 2:18 mean?

Explanation

Romans 2:18 describes a person who, having knowledge of God's will and the law, is able to distinguish between what is morally better or more excellent.

The verse implies that this understanding comes not just from a casual awareness, but from being systematically taught and instructed in the Jewish law. It carries an implied contrast between the person who only hears the law and the one who truly understands and internalizes its teachings.

The verse cautions the reader against the danger of complacency and hypocrisy, as possessing knowledge of the law and distinguishing what is right does not by itself ensure that one acts accordingly.

Historical Context

The Epistle to the Romans, authored by the Apostle Paul, was written to a diverse community in Rome that included both Jewish and Gentile Christians.

The historical context of Romans 2:18 suggests Paul was addressing Jewish members of the Roman church who took pride in their Jewish heritage and knowledge of the law.

During this time, the law of Moses was central to Jewish identity and religious practice.

Paul's letter addresses the misapplication of the law and the mistaken belief that mere possession of it or knowledge about it could guarantee God's favor or justify one before God.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, Romans 2:18 outlines a key point in Paul's argument about the limitations of the law for salvation.

It suggests that while the law may provide knowledge of God's will, it does not, in itself, empower individuals to fulfill that will. This supports the larger message of Romans that righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ and not through the works of the law.

Other theological viewpoints on this verse may emphasize that, for those under the law, understanding and approving what is excellent carries a responsibility to act on that knowledge.

A theological reflection might also consider the role of the Holy Spirit in enlightening the believer's understanding and ability to discern God's will.

Practical Applications

Practically, Romans 2:18 can encourage believers to engage with their spiritual teachings deeply and critically. Knowing what is right is different from doing what is right; thus, one must strive not only to learn but to embody the ethical teachings of their faith.

The verse also serves as a reminder to avoid self-righteousness and to respond to God's law with humility and obedience, rather than mere intellectual assent.

Cross-References

• Romans 7:12 – "Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good."
• James 1:22 – "But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves."
• Matthew 7:21 – "Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."
• Romans 2:13 – "For not the hearers of the law are just before God, but the doers of the law shall be justified."

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of Romans 2:18 and their meanings include:

• "Knowest" (ginosko): to know, understand, perceive, have knowledge of.
• "Will" (thelema): that which is willed, purpose, desire, will.
• "Approvest" (dokimazo): to test, approve, discern, examine.
• "More Excellent" (diaphero): to carry through, to differ, to be of more value.
• "Being instructed" (katecheo): to teach or instruct thoroughly or soundly.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparisons might be drawn between Paul's discourse on the law in Romans and the emphasis on legal adherence in other ancient religions and philosophies.

For example, in Pharisaic Judaism, there was an acute focus on legal observance which Jesus often critiqued.

Similarly, Stoicism, a prevalent philosophy in the Greco-Roman world, also placed importance on virtue and the knowledge of what is right.

However, Paul's argument diverges from these in that he emphasizes transformation through faith rather than mere ethical or legal compliance.

Scientific Perspectives

While Romans 2:18 does not directly engage with scientific matters, one could reflect on the cognitive aspects of knowing and approving what is more excellent.

Modern cognitive science could offer insights into the psychological processes behind moral reasoning and decision-making, highlighting the complexity of why knowing the right thing does not always lead to doing it.

Commentaries

Commentaries on this verse offer diverse perspectives.

For instance, John Stott emphasizes the danger of possessing knowledge that does not lead to action.

Similarly, Douglas Moo discusses how this verse plays into Paul's larger argument that the law provides the knowledge of God's will but cannot enable people to fulfill that will without the transformation that comes from faith in Christ.

F.F.

Bruce highlights that approving what is more excellent refers to a moral discernment that should lead to ethical living.

These perspectives collectively stress the importance of informed moral action as a response to divine teachings.