Romans Bible Study Page

ROMANS 2 - Bible Study with Questions (DAY 2) 

God’s Righteous Judgment

1 Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. 

2 But we know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who practice such things. 

3 And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God? 

4 Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? 

5 But in accordance with your hardness and your impenitent heart you are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God, 

6 who “will render to each one according to his deeds”: 

7 eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality; 

8 but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness—indignation and wrath, 

9 tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek; 

10 but glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works what is good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 

11 For there is no partiality with God. 

The Jews Guilty as the Gentiles

12 For as many as have sinned without law will also perish without law, and as many as have sinned in the law will be judged by the law 

13 (for not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God, but the doers of the law will be justified; 

14 for when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves, 

15 who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them) 

16 in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel. 

The Jews and the Law

17 Indeed you are called a Jew, and rest on the law, and make your boast in God, 

18 and know His will, and approve the things that are excellent, being instructed out of the law, 

19 and are confident that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, 

20 an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, having the form of knowledge and truth in the law. 

21 You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? You who preach that a man should not steal, do you steal? 

22 You who say, “Do not commit adultery,” do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? 

23 You who make your boast in the law, do you dishonor God through breaking the law? 

24 For “the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you,” as it is written. 

Circumcision of No Avail

25 For circumcision is indeed profitable if you keep the law; but if you are a breaker of the law, your circumcision has become uncircumcision. 

26 Therefore, if an uncircumcised man keeps the righteous requirements of the law, will not his uncircumcision be counted as circumcision? 

27 And will not the physically uncircumcised, if he fulfills the law, judge you who, even with your written code and circumcision, are a transgressor of the law? 

28 For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; 

29 but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God. 

STUDY NOTES:

Romans Chapter 2 is a powerful chapter where Paul addresses the universal nature of sin and God's impartial judgment. Paul challenges those who judge others while practicing the same sins, emphasizing that no one can escape God’s judgment. This chapter calls us to self-reflection, repentance, and living out our faith authentically.

1. God’s Judgment is Impartial (Romans 2:1-11) 

Key Scripture: Romans 2:1-2 

Therefore, you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. But we know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who practice such things. 

My Reflection 

- Paul highlights the hypocrisy of judging others while committing similar sins. This hypocrisy brings condemnation because God judges truthfully and righteously. 

- This section reminds us that God's judgment is impartial. His standard is holiness, and all are accountable to it, whether Jew or Gentile.

Application Questions 

- Are there areas in your life where you are quick to judge others but struggle with similar weaknesses? 

- How does knowing God’s judgment is impartial change how you treat others? 

2. God’s Kindness Leads to Repentance (Romans 2:4-5) 

Key Scripture: Romans 2:4 

Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? 

My Reflection- Paul emphasizes God's goodness and patience, which should inspire us to repent rather than take His grace for granted. 

- Hardened hearts that refuse repentance store up wrath, revealing the urgency of turning back to God. 

My Action Steps 

- Take time to reflect on God’s kindness in your life. Write down moments when His mercy and patience were evident. 

- Commit to daily repentance and a heart open to the Holy Spirit's conviction. 

3. True Righteousness Comes from Obedience (Romans 2:12-16) 

Key Scripture: Romans 2:13 

For not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God, but the doers of the law will be justified. 

My Reflection: 

- Paul distinguishes between knowing God’s Word and living it out. Righteousness is demonstrated through action, not mere knowledge. 

- Even Gentiles, who didn’t have the written law, showed God's law written on their hearts through their actions. 

Discussion Questions 

- What steps can you take to align your actions with God’s Word? 

- How can we encourage each other to move from hearing the Word to living it out daily? 

4. Authentic Faith Over Outward Rituals (Romans 2:17-29) 

Key Scripture: Romans 2:28-29 

For he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh; but he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is that of the heart, in the Spirit, not in the letter; whose praise is not from men but from God. 

Reflection 

- Paul confronts those who take pride in outward symbols of faith (like circumcision) while neglecting inner transformation. True faith begins with a heart change. 

- My Side Note: Today, this could be likened to going through religious motions without genuine love for God or others. 

Application Challenge 

- Evaluate your heart: Are you prioritizing external appearances of faith over genuine spiritual growth? 

- Ask God to circumcise your heart—removing what does not please Him and filling you with His Spirit. 

Declutter what doesn't  please Him 

Wisdom Nuggets to Remember 

1. God’s judgment is based on truth, not appearances. (Romans 2:2) 

2. Outward actions must reflect inward transformation. (Romans 2:29) 

Questions for Group Discussion or Personal Study 

1. Why do you think Paul starts this chapter addressing hypocrisy in judgment?

Paul begins with hypocrisy because it’s a universal issue that applies to everyone. Judging others while being guilty of the same or similar sins reveals the human tendency to overlook personal faults. By highlighting this, Paul shows that no one is righteous enough to escape God’s judgment, emphasizing the need for humility and repentance.

2. How can we balance calling out sin in others while remaining humble about our own faults?

We can balance this by: 

- Self-reflection first: Following Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 7:3-5, addressing the “plank” in our own eye before pointing out the “speck” in someone else’s. 

- Speaking with love: Galatians 6:1 says to restore others gently, with a spirit of humility, acknowledging that we are also prone to sin. 

- Relying on Scripture: Use God’s Word as the standard rather than personal opinions, ensuring that correction aligns with biblical truth. 

3. What does it mean to have God’s law “written on your heart”? (Romans 2:15) 

Having God’s law written on your heart means living in alignment with God’s will, guided by the Holy Spirit. It signifies an internal transformation where obedience comes naturally out of love for God, rather than mere obligation. This reflects a relationship with God rather than adherence to religious rituals. 

4. How does God’s kindness influence your repentance? 

God’s kindness shows us His patience and love, reminding us that He desires our restoration, not punishment (2 Peter 3:9). Recognizing His goodness softens our hearts, leading us to turn from sin willingly. Rather than repenting out of fear, we respond to His grace with gratitude and a sincere desire to change.

5. In what ways can you ensure your faith is authentic and Spirit-led rather than outwardly performed?

- Daily Prayer and Reflection: Ask God to reveal areas where your faith may be superficial. 

- Studying Scripture: Let God’s Word shape your attitudes and actions rather than relying on traditions or appearances. 

- Obedience to the Holy Spirit: Be attentive to His guidance, even when it challenges you to grow. 

- Serving Others in Love: Focus on acts of love and service that reflect Jesus’ teachings, not to gain approval from people, but to glorify God. 

- Accountability:Surround yourself with believers who encourage genuine spiritual growth. 

Written By: Stephanie Smith

With Stephanie Smith Ministries

www.StephanieSmithMinistries.org 

 Starting 11-19-2024

Romans 1 – Bible Study 

Using the New King James Version

Lets read Chapter 1 first, then go into questions and reflection time.

1 Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God 

2 which He promised before through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures, 

3 concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, who was born of the seed of David according to the flesh, 

4 and declared to be the Son of God with power according to the Spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead. 

5 Through Him we have received grace and apostleship for obedience to the faith among all nations for His name, 

6 among whom you also are the called of Jesus Christ; 

7 To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: 

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Desire to Visit Rome

8 First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for you all, that your faith is spoken of throughout the whole world. 

9 For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers, 

10 making request if, by some means, now at last I may find a way in the will of God to come to you. 

11 For I long to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift, so that you may be established— 

12 that is, that I may be encouraged together with you by the mutual faith both of you and me. 

13 Now I do not want you to be unaware, brethren, that I often planned to come to you (but was hindered until now), that I might have some fruit among you also, just as among the other Gentiles. 

14 I am a debtor both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to wise and to unwise. 

15 So, as much as is in me, I am ready to preach the gospel to you who are in Rome also.

The Just Live by Faith

16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. 

17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, *“The just shall live by faith.

God’s Wrath on Unrighteousness

18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, 

19 because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. 

20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, 

21 because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. 

22 Professing to be wise, they became fools, 

23 and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things. 

24 Therefore God also gave them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves, 

25 who exchanged the truth of God for the lie, and worshiped and served the creature rather than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen. 

26 For this reason God gave them up to vile passions. For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. 

27 Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due. 

28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a debased mind, to do those things which are not fitting; 

29 being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, 

30 backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, 

31 undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful; 

32 who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.

Bible Study Questions & Answers for 

Romans Chapter 1 (NKJV)

1. What does Paul mean when he describes himself as a "bondservant of Jesus Christ" (Romans 1:1)?

A bondservant in biblical terms refers to someone who willingly serves their master out of love and commitment. Paul identifies himself as fully devoted to Christ, acknowledging that his life and mission belong to Jesus. This shows Paul's humility and his complete submission to God’s will, emphasizing that his role as an apostle is a calling, not a personal ambition.

2. Why is the gospel described as "the power of God to salvation" in Romans 1:16?

Paul says in Romans 1:16, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.” The gospel reveals God’s power to save sinners through faith in Jesus Christ. It transcends cultural and ethnic barriers, offering salvation to all who believe, showing that the gospel is not just good advice but divine power for transformation.

3. What does Paul mean when he says, "The just shall live by faith" (Romans 1:17)?

This phrase, quoting Habakkuk 2:4, emphasizes that righteousness comes through faith, not works or the law. It means that those who are justified before God live a life rooted in trusting Him. Faith is both the entry point into salvation and the daily walk of a believer, highlighting a dependence on God's grace rather than human effort.

4. According to Romans 1:18-20, how has God made Himself known to all people?

Paul states that “the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness” (Romans 1:18). He explains that God's invisible attributes—His eternal power and divine nature—are clearly seen in creation (Romans 1:20). This general revelation leaves humanity without excuse, as the evidence of God's existence and power is evident in the world around us.

5. What happens when people reject the knowledge of God according to Romans 1:21-23?

Paul explains that although people knew God, they did not glorify Him or give thanks. Instead, their thoughts became futile, and their hearts darkened. They exchanged the glory of the immortal God for idols, worshiping created things rather than the Creator. This rejection of God leads to spiritual blindness and moral corruption, as people turn away from truth to follow their own desires.

6. What are the consequences of God "giving them up" as described in Romans 1:24-32?

When people persist in rejecting God, He allows them to follow their sinful desires as a form of judgment. Paul describes three instances where God "gave them up": 

- To uncleanness (Romans 1:24): Leading to impurity and dishonoring their bodies. 

- To vile passions (Romans 1:26-27): Resulting in unnatural sexual behaviors. 

- To a debased mind (Romans 1:28): Leading to all kinds of sinful actions, such as envy, murder, and deceit.

These consequences reflect a life increasingly distant from God, resulting in a breakdown of moral and spiritual integrity.

7. What does Romans 1:32 say about the mindset of those who practice unrighteousness?

Romans 1:32 states, “Who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them.” This highlights the severity of sin: not only do people engage in sinful behaviors, but they also encourage and approve of others doing the same. This reveals a hardened heart that fully rejects God's truth and embraces a lifestyle contrary to His will.

Reflection Questions for Life Application:

1. How can you personally glorify God in your daily life, based on the truths in Romans 1?

We can glorify God by acknowledging Him as the Creator and Sustainer of all things. This includes giving thanks, living a life of obedience, and reflecting His character in our actions. For example, we can glorify God in our work, relationships, and choices by ensuring they align with His will and by sharing the gospel with others. Romans 1 reminds us to honor God in both word and deed.

2. In what ways can you be more intentional about sharing the gospel, knowing its power for salvation?

Understanding that the gospel is the power of God for salvation (Romans 1:16) motivates us to share it boldly. We can be more intentional by praying for opportunities, living out our faith as a testimony, and engaging in conversations about Christ. Sharing personal experiences of how the gospel has transformed our lives can also help others see its power.

3. How does understanding God’s general revelation in creation deepen your worship and awe of Him?

Seeing God's invisible attributes—His power and divine nature—revealed in creation (Romans 1:20) deepens our sense of awe and reverence. When we observe the complexity of nature, the vastness of the universe, or the intricacies of life, we are reminded of God's greatness. This understanding leads us to worship Him more fully, recognizing His majesty and sovereignty in all things.

4. Are there areas in your life where you are tempted to exchange God's truth for a lie? How can you realign your heart?

Temptations often arise in areas where we prioritize worldly desires over God’s truth, such as seeking approval from others, materialism, or indulging in sinful habits. To realign our hearts, we must regularly read and meditate on Scripture, seek accountability from fellow believers, and pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance to resist lies and embrace God’s truth.

5. How can you encourage others to live by faith and not by sight?

We can encourage others by sharing stories of God’s faithfulness in our lives and reminding them of His promises. Pointing them to scriptures like Romans 1:17, which says, “The just shall live by faith,” reinforces the importance of trusting God even when circumstances seem uncertain. We can also pray for them and walk alongside them in their journey, offering support and reminding them to focus on eternal truths rather than temporary challenges.

Main Takeaways from Romans Chapter 1

1. Paul’s Calling and the Gospel’s Central Role (Romans 1:1-7)

- Paul’s Identity and Mission: Paul introduces himself as a servant of Christ and an apostle, set apart for the gospel. His life’s mission is to spread the good news of Jesus Christ, which fulfills the promises of the Old Testament. 

- The Gospel’s Power: The gospel reveals God’s plan for salvation, available to all who believe, both Jews and Gentiles.

2. The Power of the Gospel (Romans 1:16-17) 

- Boldness in Proclaiming the Gospel: Paul declares he is not ashamed of the gospel, as it is the power of God for salvation. 

- Righteousness by Faith: The phrase “The just shall live by faith” highlights that salvation is not earned by works but is a gift received through faith. This truth is foundational to Christian living.

3. God’s Wrath Against Sin (Romans 1:18-23) 

- God’s Revelation in Creation: God’s invisible attributes—His eternal power and divine nature—are clearly seen in creation, leaving humanity without excuse for ignoring Him. 

- The Suppression of Truth: Despite this revelation, people have chosen to suppress the truth, leading to idolatry and a failure to honor God.

4. The Consequences of Rejecting God (Romans 1:24-32) 

- God “Gave Them Up” to Sinful Desires: When people persist in rejecting Him, God allows them to follow their sinful passions as a form of judgment. 

- Moral and Spiritual Decline: This leads to various sins, including sexual immorality, greed, envy, and hatred. 

- Approval of Sin:The chapter concludes with a warning about those who not only practice unrighteousness but also approve of others who do so.

Key Themes to Reflect On

1. God’s Sovereignty and Justice: 

God’s wrath is not arbitrary but a response to humanity’s deliberate rejection of Him.

2. The Universality of the Gospel: 

The gospel is for everyone, transcending ethnic and cultural barriers, offering salvation through faith in Christ.

3. The Reality of Human Sinfulness: 

Humanity, when left to its own devices, drifts into idolatry and moral decay, highlighting the need for God’s transformative power.

4. Living by Faith: 

The Christian life is grounded in faith, not in human effort or achievement.

Application Questions 

- How can you be more intentional in recognizing God’s presence in creation? 

- Are there areas in your life where you need to rely more on faith rather than your own understanding? 

- How can you share the power of the gospel with others this week? 

Written By: Stephanie Smith with Stephanie Smith Ministries

www.StephanieSmithMinistries.org

Romans 1 is from the New King James Version Bible