Romans 2:17-29
The Law and Religious Pride
There is no doubt that Paul is talking to and about “religious” people in Romans 2:17-20. He is addressing individuals who are proud of themselves and feel superior to others. They are spiritually delusional believing that their knowledge of God’s word and law, plus a ton of religious pride, makes them “Jews,” which in this context is a reference to being “God’s children.” But Paul wakes them up in verses 21-24.
The Law and Its Practice
The author of Romans points out that those who claim to be God’s people many times end up not “walking the talk,” causing unbelievers to discredit the faith (v. 24). Paul even goes on to imply that “circumcision,” the physical mark of being a Jew, has no meaning if God’s law is not obeyed. What about those who are not physically circumcised but follow what God says?
The Law and Its Purpose
After asking a theologically challenging question in v. 26, Paul points out that religious pride and physical marks are not what God is after. The “circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code” is what makes a person a true child of God. The law does not change our hearts but rather points out that we need a heart surgery.
Still, we need to answer the question, “What is the ‘circumcision of the heart’ ?” “How does it happen?” Take time to read Romans 2:17-29 to prepare for the sermon!
Reflection Questions
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As children of God, how can we avoid feeling morally and spiritually superior to others?
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In your opinion, what makes obeying God’s law or “walking the talk“ so difficult? In what ways have we misrepresented Christ by dishonoring His commandments?
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Think about the purpose(s) of the law. What are the things God’s law can and cannot do?