TRV
Romans 2:3
Bible Versions
And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?
do you think that you, a mere man passing judgment on others who do such things, yet doing them yourself, will escape the judgment of God?
So when you, O man, pass judgment on others, yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment?
And reckonest thou this, O man, who judgest them that practise such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?
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Proverbs 16:5
¶ Every one [that is] proud in heart [is] an abomination to the LORD: [though] hand [join] in hand, he shall not be unpunished. -
Romans 1:32
Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them. -
Romans 2:1
¶ Therefore thou art inexcusable, O man, whosoever thou art that judgest: for wherein thou judgest another, thou condemnest thyself; for thou that judgest doest the same things. -
Luke 12:14
And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you? -
1 Thessalonians 5:3
For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. -
Psalms 50:21
These [things] hast thou done, and I kept silence; thou thoughtest that I was altogether [such an one] as thyself: [but] I will reprove thee, and set [them] in order before thine eyes. -
Daniel 10:19
And said, O man greatly beloved, fear not: peace [be] unto thee, be strong, yea, be strong. And when he had spoken unto me, I was strengthened, and said, Let my lord speak; for thou hast strengthened me.
Romans 2:3 (KJV)
"And thinkest thou this, O man, that judgest them which do such things, and doest the same, that thou shalt escape the judgment of God?"
Context
In Romans chapter 1, the Apostle Paul lays out a strong case for the sinfulness and unrighteousness of humanity, particularly focusing on the blatant idolatry and immorality of the Gentile world. Chapter 2 then turns the spotlight onto those who, while perhaps not engaging in the same overt acts, are guilty of hypocrisy – judging others for sins they themselves commit. Paul directly challenges the assumption that merely condemning the actions of others somehow exempts one from divine scrutiny. This verse is a direct question to such a person, setting the stage for Paul's argument that all people, regardless of background or outward morality, are accountable to God's righteous judgment.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Greek word translated "judgest" is krineis (κρίνεις), and "judgment" is krima (κρίμα). Both come from the same root, emphasizing the direct connection between the act of judging others and the judgment one will face. The phrase "thinkest thou this" (λογίζῃ - logizē) implies a flawed reasoning or assumption on the part of the one judging. "Escape" (ἐκφεύξῃ - ekpheuxē) carries the sense of fleeing or getting away from something, highlighting the vain hope of avoiding God's reckoning.
Reflection and Application
Romans 2:3 serves as a powerful reminder against self-righteousness and hypocrisy. It challenges us to look inward before pointing fingers outward. The person who judges others while practicing the same sins is under a delusion, thinking they can escape God's judgment by condemning others. This verse aligns with Jesus' teaching about not judging others lest you be judged. True understanding of God's standard should lead to humility and repentance, recognizing our own need for grace, rather than prideful condemnation of others. It prompts us to examine our own lives and seek God's mercy, knowing that He alone is the righteous Judge.