Romans 2:14

Indeed, 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.

Study Bible

Indeed
The word "indeed" serves as an affirmation, emphasizing the truth of the statement that follows. In Greek, the word used is "gar," which often introduces an explanation or reason. This sets the stage for understanding the natural moral capacity of the Gentiles, highlighting the universality of God's moral order.

when Gentiles
The term "Gentiles" refers to non-Jewish people. In the context of the early church, this distinction was significant as it addressed the inclusion of all nations in God's redemptive plan. Historically, Gentiles were seen as outside the covenant community of Israel, yet Paul is emphasizing their ability to act morally, which is a radical inclusion in the narrative of salvation.

who do not have the law
This phrase underscores the fact that Gentiles were not given the Mosaic Law, which was a covenantal gift to Israel. The Greek word for "law" here is "nomos," referring specifically to the Torah. This absence of the law highlights the remarkable nature of their moral actions, suggesting an innate understanding of right and wrong.

do by nature
The phrase "by nature" translates from the Greek "physis," indicating an inherent quality or instinct. This suggests that there is a natural law written on the hearts of all people, a concept that aligns with the idea of general revelation, where God's truth is evident in creation and human conscience.

what the law requires
This refers to the moral and ethical demands of the Mosaic Law. The Greek word "ta tou nomou" implies the deeds or actions prescribed by the law. The Gentiles' ability to fulfill these requirements without having the law points to the universality of God's moral standards.

they are a law to themselves
This phrase indicates that the Gentiles, through their actions, demonstrate an internal moral compass. The Greek "heautois eisin nomos" suggests self-governance according to an internalized standard. This reflects the biblical teaching that God's moral order is accessible to all humanity, not just those with the written law.

even though they do not have the law
Reiterating the earlier point, this phrase emphasizes the absence of the written law among the Gentiles. Yet, their ability to act morally underscores the presence of God's law written on their hearts. This serves as a testament to the innate knowledge of God’s standards, which is a key theme in Paul's argument for the universality of sin and the need for salvation through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Gentiles
Non-Jewish people who were not given the Mosaic Law. In this context, they represent those outside the Jewish covenant who still act in accordance with God's moral standards.

2. The Law
Refers to the Mosaic Law given to the Israelites. It includes moral, ceremonial, and civil laws that were meant to guide the Israelites in their relationship with God and others.

3. Paul the Apostle
The author of the Book of Romans, addressing both Jewish and Gentile believers in Rome, explaining the universality of sin and the need for salvation through Jesus Christ.

Teaching Points

Natural Law and Conscience
God has instilled a sense of right and wrong in every human being, which is evident even in those who do not have the written law. This innate moral compass is a reflection of God's image in humanity.

Universal Accountability
All people, regardless of their knowledge of the Mosaic Law, are accountable to God because His moral standards are evident in creation and conscience.

The Role of the Law
The law serves to reveal sin and the need for a Savior. Even those without the law can recognize their need for redemption through their conscience.

Inclusivity of the Gospel
The gospel is for all people, Jew and Gentile alike. God's grace extends beyond the boundaries of the law to reach all who seek Him.

Living Out God's Standards
Believers are called to live according to God's standards, not out of obligation to the law, but as a response to His grace and the transformation of their hearts.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Romans 2:14 challenge the notion that only those with the written law can know and follow God's standards?

2. In what ways can we see evidence of God's moral law in the world today, even among those who do not profess faith in Christ?

3. How does the concept of natural law in Romans 2:14 relate to the idea of conscience in your own life?

4. What implications does Romans 2:14 have for evangelism and sharing the gospel with those from different cultural or religious backgrounds?

5. How can understanding that God's law is written on our hearts influence the way we approach ethical and moral decisions in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Romans 1:19-20
This passage discusses how God's invisible qualities and divine nature are evident in creation, leaving people without excuse. It connects to Romans 2:14 by showing that God's moral law is evident to all, even those without the written law.

Jeremiah 31:33
This verse speaks of God's law being written on the hearts of His people, which parallels the idea that Gentiles can naturally do what the law requires.

Acts 10:34-35
Peter's realization that God does not show favoritism but accepts those who fear Him and do what is right, regardless of their ethnic background, aligns with the idea that Gentiles can fulfill the law's requirements.