Romans 2:18 WEB

"know his will, and approve the things that are excellent, being instructed out of the law,"

What Does Romans 2:18 Mean?

In Romans 2:18, Paul emphasizes the importance of knowing God's will and approving what is excellent, particularly through the lens of the law. The verse invites believers to understand not just the letter of the law but the heart behind it. This understanding allows Christians to discern what is truly good and aligned with God's character. The phrase 'know his will' signifies a deeper relationship with God, where believers seek to understand His desires and intentions for their lives. This knowledge is foundational for making moral decisions and living a life that honors God.

The expression 'approve the things that are excellent' suggests a call to discernment. It implies that followers of Christ should not only recognize what is good but actively endorse and pursue it. This is a vital aspect of Christian living; it goes beyond mere knowledge to a proactive stance of embracing and promoting excellence in thought, action, and character. The law serves as a guide, instructing believers on what is right and just, thereby enabling them to navigate complex moral landscapes in their lives.

In the broader context of Romans 2, Paul addresses both Jews and Gentiles, explaining that possessing the law does not guarantee righteousness. Rather, it is living out the principles of the law that matters. This verse comes as part of a larger argument about accountability and righteousness, highlighting that knowledge of God's will, as revealed through the law, should lead to action. The law is not simply a set of rules but an avenue to understanding God's will and character, shaping believers' lives.

Some may misconceive this verse to imply that simply knowing the law is sufficient for righteousness. However, Paul stresses that knowledge must be accompanied by action. True understanding of God's will leads to a transformation of character and behavior. This verse encourages believers to strive for excellence, relying on their knowledge of God's law as they seek to reflect His nature in their daily lives. The call to action is clear: knowing God's will should spark a desire to live out that knowledge in ways that honor Him and contribute positively to the community.

Practical Application

Romans 2:18 holds significant relevance for modern Christian life, reminding believers of the importance of understanding God’s will through scripture and applying it in everyday situations. For example, in a workplace setting, a Christian might encounter ethical dilemmas that require discernment. Knowing God’s will, as revealed through the teachings of Jesus and the law, can guide Christians in making decisions that reflect integrity and excellence, advocating for fairness and compassion.

Consider a scenario where a friend is facing a moral challenge, such as being pressured to cheat on an exam. By grounding their response in Romans 2:18, a believer can offer counsel rooted in God’s will, encouraging honesty and hard work instead of taking shortcuts. This verse serves as a reminder that knowing God’s will is instrumental in guiding our actions and decisions, helping us to approve what is excellent, even when faced with difficult choices.

To fully live out the teachings of Romans 2:18, Christians can take actionable steps. First, they can engage in regular Bible study, seeking to understand God’s law and will more deeply. This could include participating in group studies or personal devotions focused on understanding the moral and ethical teachings of scripture. Secondly, believers should strive to apply these teachings in practical ways, whether in their families, workplaces, or communities, promoting actions that align with God's will. Finally, reflection is key; Christians should regularly evaluate their decisions and actions through the lens of scripture, asking if they are truly approving what is excellent.

To encourage deeper engagement with this teaching, here are some reflection questions: What specific areas of your life can you improve by knowing and applying God’s will? How can you actively promote excellence in your community or workplace? In what ways can you seek guidance from scripture when making tough decisions? These questions can help foster a habit of seeking God’s will actively and intentionally in all aspects of life.

Historical Context

The Book of Romans, written by the Apostle Paul, addresses both Jewish and Gentile believers in Rome. In chapter 2, Paul discusses the importance of not just knowing the law but living it out. He emphasizes that all are accountable to God, and knowledge of the law should lead to righteous living. This chapter serves as part of his broader argument about salvation and righteousness through faith.

Historical Background

Romans was penned by the Apostle Paul around A.D. 57 during his third missionary journey. This letter aimed to clarify the gospel and address tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers in the early church, emphasizing the universal need for salvation through faith in Christ.

Reflection Questions

Common Questions

What does knowing His will mean in Romans 2:18?

In Romans 2:18, 'knowing His will' refers to understanding God's desires and intentions as revealed through His law. It signifies a deep relationship with God where believers actively seek to comprehend how to align their lives with His standards of righteousness and goodness.

How can I approve the things that are excellent?

To approve the things that are excellent, one must first discern what aligns with God's character and teachings. This involves studying scripture, praying for guidance, and seeking to live out God's principles in everyday life, promoting justice, kindness, and integrity in all actions.

Why is it important to be instructed out of the law?

Being instructed out of the law is important because it provides a foundation for understanding God's nature and expectations. The law serves as a guide for moral living, helping believers navigate complex decisions by revealing what is right and just according to God's standards.

Does knowing the law alone make me righteous?

No, knowing the law alone does not make a person righteous. According to Paul in Romans 2, true righteousness comes from living out God's will, which includes applying the principles found in the law. It's about how one acts on that knowledge that truly matters.

What are some examples of excellent things to approve?

Examples of excellent things to approve include acts of kindness, justice, love, integrity, and honesty. These qualities reflect God's character and teachings, and they should be pursued actively in personal relationships, community actions, and professional conduct.

Memory Tips

To effectively memorize Romans 2:18, focus on key phrases such as 'know His will,' 'approve the things that are excellent,' and 'instructed out of the law.' You can use flashcards with these phrases to reinforce your memory. Consider writing the verse out by hand several times, as this can help embed it in your mind.

Incorporate this verse into your daily devotions by reflecting on its meaning during prayer. Spend time asking God to help you understand His will and how you can apply it in your life. You might also meditate on it while journaling, noting specific ways it challenges you to pursue excellence in your thoughts and actions.

A mnemonic device could involve associating the key phrases with visual images: imagine a light (for 'know His will') guiding you towards a golden star (for 'approve the things that are excellent'), with an open book beside it representing being 'instructed out of the law.' This imagery can make the verse more memorable and applicable in your daily life.