Romans 2:22
Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege?
Romans 2:22 (KJV)
Context
Paul addresses a Jewish teacher who relies on the law, boasts in God, and is confident of guiding the blind and bringing light to those in darkness (Romans 2:17-20). He exposes the inconsistency of one who teaches others but fails to teach himself. The two rhetorical questions in this verse confront the same double standard.
Meaning
“Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery?” The speaker condemns adultery yet practices it, violating the seventh commandment while claiming to uphold a higher moral code. The second question, “thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege?” uses the Greek word hierosyleis, meaning “to rob temples.” This refers to the crime of plundering pagan temples, a charge sometimes brought against Jews (Acts 19:37). The one who detests idols is guilty of a related sin that profanes what is sacred.
Biblical connections
Paul’s argument continues in Romans 2:23-24, where breaking the law dishonors God and causes His name to be blasphemed among the Gentiles, echoing Isaiah 52:5 and Ezekiel 36:22. The verse demonstrates that knowing and teaching the law does not save; it condemns those who do not practice it.
Application
Both questions rebuke anyone who relies on external reputation, religious titles, or self-righteous teaching while ignoring personal conformity to God’s law. The rhetorical structure forces self-examination, not merely outward compliance. Believers are urged to align their actions with the principles they proclaim, allowing the same standard they apply to others to govern their own conduct.
Reflection
God’s judgment is impartial and will expose hidden sin. True righteousness flows from a heart that lives consistently with the gospel it professes. Christians are invited to discard hypocrisy, pursue genuine holiness, and let their lives bear the same witness as their words.
