Romans 2:18

And knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law;

Romans 2:18 (KJV)

Context

Paul writes to the church in Rome, addressing both Jews and Gentiles. He emphasizes that God’s judgment is impartial and that righteousness comes through faith in Jesus Christ. In this verse, Paul speaks directly to Jewish believers who took pride in possessing the Law of God.

Meaning

The verse identifies three distinct privileges of the Jews: knowing God’s will, approving what is excellent, and being instructed out of the Law. “Knowest his will” refers to God’s revealed will in the Law, not His secret purposes or the full Gospel, which many Jews did not yet understand. “Approvest the things that are more excellent” means they could discern and approve what is morally superior, distinguishing good from evil. “Being instructed out of the law” shows that their knowledge and discernment came from the Law itself, a privilege that carried responsibility.

Paul acknowledges that the Jews had a deeper knowledge of God’s commands and moral principles than the Gentiles, who did not have the Law. This knowledge came through their religious upbringing and study of the Scriptures. They recognized the superiority of God’s ways compared to other worldviews and philosophies of the time.

Application

As believers today, we have access to the entire Bible, both the Old and New Testaments. We are called to diligently study God’s Word, understand His will, and approve what is excellent. However, knowledge alone is not enough. True faith requires a transformed heart that leads to obedience and righteous living. We must not only know and approve God’s will but also practice it.

Reflection

Consider how you use your knowledge of Scripture. Do you merely approve what is right, or do you act on it? Let the privilege of knowing God’s will move you to humble obedience, avoiding the hypocrisy that Paul warns against.