Romans 2:18 (KJV)

What does Romans 2:18 mean?

Romans 2:18 describes someone who knows what God wants and is able to recognize what is best, because they have been taught from the law. The verse points out that this knowledge and discernment come from being instructed in the teachings found in the Jewish law.

Paul is writing to people in Rome, especially those familiar with Jewish customs and the law of Moses. He is highlighting that some people have a special confidence because they have learned God’s will through the law, which shapes their ability to judge what is excellent or right. This sets up his larger argument about responsibility and accountability for those who have received such instruction.

The Greek behind Romans 2:18

• "knowest" (γινώσκεις, ginōskeis): This word means to know or understand, often through personal experience or learning. Here, it emphasizes an informed awareness of God’s will, not just a vague idea.
• "approvest" (δοκιμάζεις, dokimazeis): This word means to test and approve, to discern what is truly valuable or excellent. Paul is saying that those taught from the law can evaluate and recognize what really matters.
• "instructed" (κατηχούμενος, katēchoumenos): This word refers to being formally taught or instructed, often in a systematic way. It highlights that the knowledge comes from careful teaching, not just casual exposure.
• "law" (νόμος, nomos): This refers specifically to the Jewish law, the Torah. Paul is pointing out that the source of this knowledge and discernment is the instruction found in the law.

Why Romans 2:18 matters

• Romans 2:18 clarifies that knowing God’s will and being able to judge rightly are not just natural abilities, but come from being taught the law.
• The verse helps explain why Paul holds certain people—especially Jews—accountable for their actions, since they have received clear instruction about what God wants.
• This verse connects to Paul’s broader point that having the law brings both privilege and responsibility, setting the stage for his argument about the need for genuine obedience, not just knowledge.