Romans 2:14
Verse
Context
God’s Righteous Judgment
13For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous before God, but it is the doers of the law who will be declared righteous.14Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature what the law requires, they are a law to themselves, even though they do not have the law.15So they show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts either accusing or defending them
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, etc. - Nor does it follow that the Gentiles who have not had a Divine revelation, shall either perish, because they had it not; or their unrighteous conduct pass unpunished, because not having this revelation might be considered as an excuse for their sins. Do by nature the things contained in the law - Do, without this Divine revelation, through that light which God imparts to every man, the things contained in the law - act according to justice, mercy, temperance and truth, the practice of which the revealed law so powerfully enjoins; these are a law unto themselves - they are not accountable to any other law, and are not to be judged by any dispensation different from that under which they live. Rabbi Tanchum brings in the Supreme Being as saying: When I decreed any thing against the Gentiles, to whom I have not given laws and statutes, and they know what I have decreed; immediately they repent; but the Israelites do not so. Tanchum, fol. 43. 2.
John Gill Bible Commentary
In the day when God shall judge,.... These words are to be read in connection with Rom 2:13, and express the time when both Jews and Gentiles will be judged, called a "day", both because of the clearness and evidence of the judgment that will be made, and because a certain time is fixed, though not known, which will surely come; also the matter of the judgment, which will be, the secrets of men: whether good or bad, which are only known to God and themselves, and which may have been done ignorantly by them; "for God shall bring every work into judgment with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil", Ecc 12:14, which is so interpreted by the Jews (t), "when R. Jochanan came to that Scripture, he wept; "for God shall bring every work into judgment with every secret thing";'' upon which the gloss says, yea, for those things which are hidden from him, which he has committed through ignorance, will he bring him into judgment; everything, even the least thing in a literal sense, but not for such silly trifling things they mention in the same place; doubtless the Holy Ghost means the secrets of men's hearts and actions, and the hidden things of darkness which are contrary to the holy law of God. The person by whom this awful judgment will be carried on is, Jesus Christ; to whom all judgment is committed, who is ordained Judge of quick and dead, and is every way fit for that office, being God as well as man, and so both omniscient and omnipotent: and this the apostle says will be, according to my Gospel; his meaning is not that the Gospel will be the, rule of judgment, because he speaking of the judgment of the Gentiles, as well as of the Jews, who never heard of the Gospel; but that what he had said concerning a day of judgment, of Christ's being the Judge, and of God's judging by him the secrets of men, were as true and as certain as the Gospel which he preached was; and was "conformable", or agreeable to it, as the Arabic version reads it, and might be learned and proved from it. This he calls, "my Gospel"; not because the author or subject of it; but because it was committed to his trust and was preached by him; and in opposition to, and to distinguish it from the Gospel of the false apostles. Eusebius says (u), that the Apostle Paul had used to call the Gospel according to Luke his Gospel, and that it is said, that whenever he makes mention of his Gospel, he designs that. (t) T. Bab. Chagigah, fol. 5. 1. (u) Eccles. Hist. l. 3. c. 4. p. 73.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:14-15 The Gentiles who know his law when they instinctively obey it may be Gentile Christians, especially since written in their hearts (2:15) alludes to the prophecy of the new covenant (Jer 31:31-34). Or they could be non-Christian Gentiles who know God’s general moral law through their consciences. In this case, Paul would be using the notion of natural law to show how all people could be held accountable for certain basic moral requirements.
Romans 2:14
God’s Righteous Judgment
13For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous before God, but it is the doers of the law who will be declared righteous.14Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature what the law requires, they are a law to themselves, even though they do not have the law.15So they show that the work of the law is written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness, and their thoughts either accusing or defending them
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
David's Desire to Seek the Lord
By Chuck Smith1.2K25:05Seek The LordJOB 1:6ROM 2:14ROM 8:1ROM 8:31In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith discusses David's desire to seek the Lord in 2 Samuel chapter 24. David takes responsibility for the suffering of the people and acknowledges his own sin and wickedness. He pleads with God to punish him instead of the innocent sheep. Pastor Chuck emphasizes David's heart of a shepherd and his genuine concern for the people. The sermon also touches on Satan's role as the accuser and his attempts to keep believers from God.
Keeping His Commandments
By Paris Reidhead1.1K45:22CommandmentsROM 2:141JN 1:6In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the first evidence in the epistle, which is walking in the light. The speaker emphasizes the importance of walking in the light and pleasing God rather than indulging in darkness. They explain that walking in the light involves accepting God's forgiveness and cleansing from sin. The speaker also discusses the concept of atonement and how Jesus Christ's sacrifice justifies God in pardoning sinners. Additionally, they address the question of what to do when a child of God falls into sin.
Evidences of Eternal Life - Part 4
By Paris Reidhead1.1K55:35Eternal LifeROM 2:14In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of aligning one's heart and desires with God's will. He highlights three clear texts from the Bible that reveal the true nature of a person's heart. The first text, found in 1 John 2:3-6, states that those who claim to know God must keep His commandments. The second text, in 1 John 3:8-10, declares that those who continue to sin are of the devil, while the purpose of Jesus' manifestation was to save us. The third text, in 1 John 2:15-17, warns against loving the world and its desires, as it is contrary to the love of the Father. The preacher encourages self-reflection and challenges listeners to examine their hearts and determine whom they truly love and seek to please.
Man's Inescapable Responsibility
By G.W. North0Righteousness and AccountabilityResponsibility to GodROM 2:14G.W. North emphasizes that all individuals, regardless of their background, bear an inescapable responsibility to God, as evidenced by the law written in their hearts and the natural world around them. He outlines four key areas for which all men are accountable: their conscience, God's individual revelations, the testimony of creation, and the joy provided by God. North highlights that while all are responsible, the degree of accountability varies based on the privileges and revelations each person has received. He uses the example of Cornelius to illustrate that even those outside of traditional faith can be righteous in God's eyes if they respond to the light they have. Ultimately, North calls for a reformation in understanding the scope of God's righteousness and the implications of the gospel for all humanity.
Epistle 189
By George Fox0FaithfulnessUnity in ChristDEU 2:25JER 9:3ROM 1:16ROM 2:14ROM 14:132TI 1:10JAS 5:71JN 5:19REV 14:6REV 21:2George Fox encourages his friends in New England and Virginia to remain steadfast in the truth and power of God, urging them to spread the gospel and confound deceit. He emphasizes the importance of unity, love, and patience, reminding them to avoid judging one another and to dwell in God's power to overcome worldly adversities. Fox highlights the necessity of preaching the everlasting gospel to all nations, assuring them that through patience and perseverance, they will witness the triumph of truth over falsehood. He calls for a commitment to the seed of God, which will sustain them against the trials of life and the challenges posed by spiritual deception.
Of a Good Conscience.
By John Gill0ConscienceSpiritual IntegrityROM 2:142TI 1:3John Gill emphasizes the significance of a good conscience in the life of a believer, asserting that it is essential for true worship and obedience to God. He explains that a good conscience is rooted in the knowledge of God's will and acts as a guide for moral and spiritual decisions. Gill outlines the various functions of conscience, including its role as a judge and witness, and contrasts a good conscience with an evil one, highlighting the peace and joy that come from being cleansed by Christ's sacrifice. He encourages believers to maintain a pure conscience through continual reflection and reliance on the blood of Christ, which brings freedom from guilt and fear of judgment.
Of the Law Given to Adam, and the Covenant Made With Him in the State of innocence...
By John Gill0Federal HeadshipCovenant TheologyGEN 2:17ROM 2:14John Gill expounds on the law given to Adam and the covenant established with him in his state of innocence, emphasizing that Adam served as the federal head for all humanity. He explains that this law was both natural and positive, requiring perfect and perpetual obedience, and that it was a covenant that included promises and sanctions. The consequences of Adam's disobedience affected all his posterity, illustrating the profound implications of his role as a representative. Gill highlights the nature of this covenant, its conditions, and the divine sovereignty behind it, ultimately pointing to the necessity of Christ as the second Adam who redeems humanity from the fall. The sermon underscores the importance of understanding our connection to Adam and the grace offered through Christ.
The Witness of Our Own Spirit
By John Wesley0The Role of ConscienceJoy in ChristJHN 8:12ROM 2:142CO 1:12PHP 4:4John Wesley emphasizes the profound joy that comes from a clear conscience in Christ, rooted in faith and love. He explains that true believers rejoice not in worldly wisdom but through the grace of God, which enables them to live in simplicity and godly sincerity. Wesley elaborates on the nature of conscience, asserting that it serves as a moral compass, guiding believers in their actions and thoughts according to God's Word. He highlights that this joy is not dependent on external circumstances but is a deep, spiritual satisfaction that arises from a relationship with God. Ultimately, Wesley encourages Christians to rejoice in their obedience and the transformative power of God's grace in their lives.
Where Christendom Is Deceived
By T. Austin-Sparks0True WorshipSpirituality vs. MysticismPRO 20:27ROM 2:14T. Austin-Sparks addresses the critical distinction between mysticism and true spirituality, emphasizing that many in Christendom fail to recognize this difference. He illustrates how religious practices, while seemingly devout, can lead to spiritual death if they do not stem from a genuine relationship with God. Sparks warns against the dangers of relying on aesthetic experiences or ascetic practices, which do not equate to true spiritual life. He stresses that true spirituality is rooted in the spirit, characterized by conscience, communion, and intuition, and that it is through revelation and the new birth that one truly knows God. The sermon calls for a return to a faith-based walk in the Spirit, free from the trappings of human effort and religious imitation.
The Natural Man and Conscience
By W.J. Erdman0ACT 17:30ROM 1:20ROM 2:14ROM 3:20GAL 3:11W.J. Erdman preaches about the universal truth underlying all natural religions, emphasizing the importance of fearing God, doing right, and acknowledging the coming judgment day. He highlights how various cultures and wise men throughout history have recognized the significance of fearing God and keeping His commandments, as echoed in the New Testament teachings. Erdman emphasizes that while duty is essential, it is not redemptive, and salvation cannot be earned through works alone, contrasting the Gospel message with the beliefs of other sacred texts.
The Teachings of the Law
By Lewis Sperry Chafer0DEU 4:8JHN 18:31ROM 2:14ROM 5:12GAL 3:19GAL 3:22Lewis Sperry Chafer delves into the teachings of grace and the law, emphasizing the opposition between the two principles according to the Scriptures. The sermon explores the threefold consideration of the law: its meaning in the Bible, its relation to time, and its application. It highlights how the law, as a covenant of works, was given to Israel, its temporary nature until the coming of Christ, and its termination with the death of Christ, offering a contrast between the covenant of works and the covenant of grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
What Kind of Being Is Man? Part 5
By Paris Reidhead0GEN 1:1PSA 8:4ECC 12:1ROM 2:142CO 13:5COL 1:27Paris Reidhead delves into Psalms 8, exploring the profound question of what kind of being man is in the eyes of God. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing man's unique position as created by God, a little lower than the angels, crowned with glory and honor, and given dominion over all creation. Reidhead challenges the prevalent secular ideologies that deny God's role in creating man and highlights the responsibility and rebellion of humanity against God. He contrasts the worldview that man is essentially good with the biblical truth that man is imperfect, sinful, and in need of redemption through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Keeping His Commandment
By Paris Reidhead0ROM 2:14ROM 3:242CO 13:52TI 2:191JN 1:61JN 2:11JN 2:3Paris Reidhead preaches about the importance of repentance and obedience to God's commandments as evidence of eternal life. He emphasizes the need for true fellowship with God, not just knowledge about Him, and warns against living in known sin while claiming to know God. Reidhead highlights the significance of repentance, the decision to please God in everything, and the commitment to seek the highest good of God and others. He stresses that true love for God involves the intention and purpose of the heart, not just emotions, and challenges listeners to examine their intentions and commitment to God's commandments.
(Amazing Facts) 2. Amazing Facts About Man
By Zac Poonen0GEN 1:27PSA 139:14ECC 3:11ROM 2:141CO 2:11Zac Poonen preaches on the marvel of man being the crown of God's creation, intricately designed by God with amazing features like the brain, eyes, ears, heart, and glands, showcasing the perfect balance and intelligence in the human body. Beyond the physical body, man possesses a soul with a mind, emotions, and will, enabling him to reason and make decisions, setting him apart from animals. Furthermore, man has a spirit that distinguishes him from the rest of creation, giving him a moral conscience and a longing for a higher purpose beyond earthly life, emphasizing his unique relationship with God.
So Glad for Guilt
By David Servant0PSA 51:17PSA 139:23PRO 3:11MAT 5:4ROM 2:142CO 7:102CO 13:5David Servant delves into the topic of guilt, emphasizing its universal nature and divine origin as God's moral law written in every heart. He discusses common ways people try to deal with guilt, such as finding fault with guilt-purveyors, self-justification, and rejecting guilt-inducing messages using theological justifications. David highlights the importance of recognizing guilt as God's reproof, leading to confession, repentance, and spiritual growth. He contrasts the wise acceptance of guilt for growth with the foolish rejection of God's reproof, encouraging believers to embrace guilt as a catalyst for positive change.
Day 50, Galatians 3
By David Servant0JER 31:31ROM 2:141CO 9:19GAL 3:2David Servant preaches on the controversy addressed by Paul in his letter to the Galatians, emphasizing that salvation is received through faith in Jesus, not through circumcision or keeping the Law of Moses. He explains the three major 'sets of rules' given by God in human history: the law of conscience, the Law of Moses, and the law of Christ, highlighting that Gentiles are not required to follow the Law of Moses but are called to obey the law of Christ. Paul lists reasons why Gentiles don't need to be circumcised, emphasizing that salvation has always been through faith, as seen in the Old Testament and exemplified by Abraham.
Internal Gyro-Compass
By Ernest O'Neill0PSA 139:13PRO 20:27JHN 16:13ACT 17:26ROM 2:14Ernest O'Neill delves into the essence of conscience, highlighting how our spirits enable us to communicate with the Supreme Being who created us. He emphasizes that our conscience, rooted in our spirit, guides us towards a higher purpose beyond the physical realm, reflecting a memory of God's image within us. O'Neill explains that conscience serves as a vital personal guidance system, unique to each individual, urging us to align our actions with what God intends for us, ultimately leading to a spiritual rebirth.
Words of Spirit and Life
By A.W. Tozer0ROM 1:26ROM 2:14ROM 11:21ROM 11:241CO 11:14GAL 2:15GAL 4:8EPH 2:3JAS 3:72PE 1:4The preacher delves into the concept of 'phusis' or 'nature' as described in the Bible, highlighting how it refers to the inherent character, essential constitution, and origin of individuals. The sermon explores how all humans are born with sinful natures but can be transformed by God's grace to partake in His divine nature. Various biblical scholars' interpretations of 'phusis' are examined, emphasizing its significance in understanding human behavior and God's moral standards written in our hearts.
To Whom Belongest Thou?
By C.H. Spurgeon0MAT 25:41LUK 18:9JHN 3:18ROM 1:20ROM 2:14ROM 3:19ROM 5:12ROM 8:12CO 3:9The preacher delves into the concept of being 'Accountable' before God, emphasizing that all individuals are answerable to God as the Judge of all, liable to judgment and punishment. Romans 3:19 highlights this accountability, indicating that all are guilty, culpable, and subject to trial or condemnation. The sermon explores how divine revelation through creation, conscience, and the Law exposes humanity's sinfulness, leaving no room for defense against God's righteous judgment. Despite attempts to deceive oneself or others, every individual stands guilty before God, unable to justify themselves based on personal character or behavior.
- Adam Clarke
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, etc. - Nor does it follow that the Gentiles who have not had a Divine revelation, shall either perish, because they had it not; or their unrighteous conduct pass unpunished, because not having this revelation might be considered as an excuse for their sins. Do by nature the things contained in the law - Do, without this Divine revelation, through that light which God imparts to every man, the things contained in the law - act according to justice, mercy, temperance and truth, the practice of which the revealed law so powerfully enjoins; these are a law unto themselves - they are not accountable to any other law, and are not to be judged by any dispensation different from that under which they live. Rabbi Tanchum brings in the Supreme Being as saying: When I decreed any thing against the Gentiles, to whom I have not given laws and statutes, and they know what I have decreed; immediately they repent; but the Israelites do not so. Tanchum, fol. 43. 2.
John Gill Bible Commentary
In the day when God shall judge,.... These words are to be read in connection with Rom 2:13, and express the time when both Jews and Gentiles will be judged, called a "day", both because of the clearness and evidence of the judgment that will be made, and because a certain time is fixed, though not known, which will surely come; also the matter of the judgment, which will be, the secrets of men: whether good or bad, which are only known to God and themselves, and which may have been done ignorantly by them; "for God shall bring every work into judgment with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil", Ecc 12:14, which is so interpreted by the Jews (t), "when R. Jochanan came to that Scripture, he wept; "for God shall bring every work into judgment with every secret thing";'' upon which the gloss says, yea, for those things which are hidden from him, which he has committed through ignorance, will he bring him into judgment; everything, even the least thing in a literal sense, but not for such silly trifling things they mention in the same place; doubtless the Holy Ghost means the secrets of men's hearts and actions, and the hidden things of darkness which are contrary to the holy law of God. The person by whom this awful judgment will be carried on is, Jesus Christ; to whom all judgment is committed, who is ordained Judge of quick and dead, and is every way fit for that office, being God as well as man, and so both omniscient and omnipotent: and this the apostle says will be, according to my Gospel; his meaning is not that the Gospel will be the, rule of judgment, because he speaking of the judgment of the Gentiles, as well as of the Jews, who never heard of the Gospel; but that what he had said concerning a day of judgment, of Christ's being the Judge, and of God's judging by him the secrets of men, were as true and as certain as the Gospel which he preached was; and was "conformable", or agreeable to it, as the Arabic version reads it, and might be learned and proved from it. This he calls, "my Gospel"; not because the author or subject of it; but because it was committed to his trust and was preached by him; and in opposition to, and to distinguish it from the Gospel of the false apostles. Eusebius says (u), that the Apostle Paul had used to call the Gospel according to Luke his Gospel, and that it is said, that whenever he makes mention of his Gospel, he designs that. (t) T. Bab. Chagigah, fol. 5. 1. (u) Eccles. Hist. l. 3. c. 4. p. 73.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
2:14-15 The Gentiles who know his law when they instinctively obey it may be Gentile Christians, especially since written in their hearts (2:15) alludes to the prophecy of the new covenant (Jer 31:31-34). Or they could be non-Christian Gentiles who know God’s general moral law through their consciences. In this case, Paul would be using the notion of natural law to show how all people could be held accountable for certain basic moral requirements.