Romans 2:1-4

¹ “Therefore you have no excuse, you foolish person, everyone of you who passes judgment; for in that matter in which you judge someone else, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. ² And we know that the judgment of God rightly falls upon those who practice such things. ³ But do you suppose this, you foolish person who passes judgment on those who practice such things, and yet does them as well, that you will escape the judgment of God? ⁴ Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and restraint and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?”

Verse 1: Paul addresses the issue of judgment for sin. He reminds the readers that they have no excuse for passing judgment on others. Paul emphasizes that when we judge someone else, we are actually condemning ourselves because we ourselves are not without fault. This serves as a reminder of our own need for grace and forgiveness. As Paul develops his argument the law is revealed to be the instrument which reveals the depth of our sins so that we may see our need for God’s grace.

Verse 2: Paul acknowledges that God’s judgment is based on truth. He affirms that God’s judgment is just and righteous, as it is rooted in the truth of His character and His perfect understanding of all things. This understanding helps us recognize the importance of leaving judgment in God’s hands and trusting in His wisdom.

Verse 3: Paul continues to challenge the readers by highlighting the inconsistency of passing judgment on others while engaging in the same sinful behaviors. He reminds them that as mere human beings, they cannot escape God’s judgment if they themselves are guilty of the same actions. This serves as a humbling reminder that we are all in need of God’s mercy and forgiveness, and that all human fall short of this standard as revealed by the Old Covenant law. The bottom line is this: No person is righteous under the Old Covenant law.

Verse 4: Paul questions whether the readers are showing contempt for the riches of God’s kindness, forbearance, and patience. He emphasizes that God’s kindness is not meant to be taken for granted or overlooked. Instead, it is intended to lead us to repentance. God’s kindness is a powerful motivator for us to turn away from our sinful ways and embrace His grace.