Romans 10:2

For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.

For {G1063} I bear {G3140} them {G846} record {G3140} that {G3754} they have {G2192} a zeal {G2205} of God {G2316}, but {G235} not {G3756} according {G2596} to knowledge {G1922}.

for I can testify to their zeal for God. But it is not based on correct understanding;

For I testify about them that they are zealous for God, but not on the basis of knowledge.

For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge.

Commentary

Romans 10:2 is a poignant verse where the Apostle Paul expresses his deep concern and understanding of his Jewish brethren. It highlights a critical distinction between sincere religious devotion and an accurate comprehension of God's path to righteousness.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's impassioned discourse in Romans chapters 9-11, where he grapples with the question of Israel's rejection of Jesus as Messiah and God's faithfulness to His covenant people. Having just established God's sovereign choice and mercy in Romans 9, Paul transitions in Romans 10 to discuss Israel's pursuit of righteousness. He acknowledges their earnestness, yet points out a fundamental flaw in their approach. They sought righteousness through their own efforts by the law, rather than through faith in Christ, as detailed in Romans 9:31-32.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Misdirected Zeal: Paul testifies that his kinsmen possess a genuine "zeal of God." This refers to their fervent devotion, passion, and earnestness in serving God according to their understanding. Their religious fervor was undeniable, often expressed through strict adherence to the Mosaic Law and traditions.
  • Lack of True Knowledge: The crucial qualifier is "but not according to knowledge." This isn't merely a lack of intellectual facts, but a profound misunderstanding of God's plan for salvation through Jesus Christ. They lacked an understanding of righteousness by faith, attempting instead to establish their own righteousness through works of the law (Romans 10:3). Their zeal, though sincere, was misinformed regarding the true nature of God's saving grace.
  • The Danger of Sincerity Without Truth: This verse powerfully illustrates that sincerity and passion, while admirable, are not sufficient for salvation if they are not aligned with God's revealed truth. Religious devotion, however fervent, must be rooted in accurate knowledge of God's will and way.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "zeal" is zēlos (ζῆλος), which signifies a strong, passionate earnestness or fervor. It can be used in both positive and negative senses, but here Paul attributes it to a commendable, albeit misdirected, devotion. The word for "knowledge" is epignōsis (ἐπίγνωσις), which denotes a full, precise, or accurate knowledge, a deeper understanding that comes from experience or revelation, not just superficial information. This emphasizes that Israel's deficiency was not in their passion, but in their comprehensive understanding of God's redemptive plan, particularly the role of Christ as the end of the law for righteousness (Romans 10:4).

Practical Application

Romans 10:2 serves as a timeless reminder for believers today. It underscores the critical need for sound doctrine and true biblical knowledge to accompany our spiritual zeal. We can be passionate about God, church activities, or Christian causes, but if that passion is not grounded in an accurate understanding of His Word and His character, it can be misdirected or even harmful. This verse encourages us to continually seek deeper knowledge of Christ and His saving work, ensuring our devotion is "according to knowledge" and aligned with God's perfect will. It calls us to examine our own beliefs and practices, ensuring our sincerity is matched by biblical truth.

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Cross-References

  • Acts 21:20 (13 votes)

    And when they heard [it], they glorified the Lord, and said unto him, Thou seest, brother, how many thousands of Jews there are which believe; and they are all zealous of the law:

  • Romans 9:31 (12 votes)

    But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness, hath not attained to the law of righteousness.

  • Romans 9:32 (12 votes)

    Wherefore? Because [they sought it] not by faith, but as it were by the works of the law. For they stumbled at that stumblingstone;

  • Philippians 1:9 (9 votes)

    ¶ And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and [in] all judgment;

  • Romans 10:3 (9 votes)

    For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God.

  • Philippians 3:6 (9 votes)

    Concerning zeal, persecuting the church; touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless.

  • Proverbs 19:2 (8 votes)

    ¶ Also, [that] the soul [be] without knowledge, [it is] not good; and he that hasteth with [his] feet sinneth.