Romans 2:6

Who will render to every man according to his deeds:

Who {G3739} will render {G591} to every man {G1538} according {G2596} to his {G846} deeds {G2041}:

for he will pay back each one according to his deeds.

God “will repay each one according to his deeds.”

who will render to every man according to his works:

Romans 2:6 (KJV): "Who will render to every man according to his deeds:"

Commentary on Romans 2:6

This powerful verse from Paul's letter to the Romans states a fundamental principle of divine justice: God's judgment is based on what people actually do. It emphasizes accountability and the certainty that actions have consequences in the sight of God.

Context

Romans Chapter 2 addresses those who judge others while committing similar sins, particularly focusing on Jewish people who relied on their law or circumcision for righteousness but did not live according to God's will. Paul argues that God's judgment is impartial (Romans 2:11), not based on outward religious identity, but on the reality of a person's life and actions. Verse 6 introduces the standard by which this judgment will be measured – their deeds.

Key Themes

  • Divine Judgment: The verse underscores that God is the ultimate judge.
  • Accountability: Every individual is held responsible for their actions before God.
  • Justice Based on Deeds: God's rendering (reward or punishment) is directly proportional to a person's conduct or "deeds."
  • Impartiality: Coupled with the surrounding verses, this theme highlights that God applies this standard to "every man," regardless of background.

Linguistic Insights

The key term here is "deeds," translated from the Greek word erga (ἔργα). This word signifies works, actions, or labors. It refers not just to isolated acts but to the totality of one's conduct and way of life. It's about the practical outworking of one's character and faith (or lack thereof).

Cross-References and Connections

The concept of God rendering to individuals according to their deeds is a consistent theme throughout the Bible. We see similar declarations in the Old Testament, such as in the Psalms where it is written, "for thou renderest to every man according to his work" (Psalm 62:12). Jesus himself speaks of this principle, stating that the Son of man shall come "and then he shall reward every man according to his works" (Matthew 16:27). The final judgment described in Revelation also highlights people being "judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works" (Revelation 20:12). While salvation is by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9), this verse speaks to the standard of divine judgment and the consequences that follow a life lived in obedience or disobedience to God's will.

Reflection and Application

Romans 2:6 serves as a stark reminder of our accountability before a just God. It challenges any complacency based on mere profession or external religious practices. True faith is not passive; it is demonstrated through a life of obedience and good works (James 2:17). This verse calls us to examine our lives and ensure our "deeds" align with the calling we have received. It underscores the seriousness of sin and the profound need for the grace offered through Jesus Christ, which transforms lives and enables us to live in a manner pleasing to God, producing deeds of righteousness.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Psalms 62:12

    Also unto thee, O Lord, [belongeth] mercy: for thou renderest to every man according to his work.

  • Jeremiah 32:19

    Great in counsel, and mighty in work: for thine eyes [are] open upon all the ways of the sons of men: to give every one according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings:

  • Matthew 16:27

    For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.

  • Jeremiah 17:10

    I the LORD search the heart, [I] try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, [and] according to the fruit of his doings.

  • 2 Corinthians 5:10

    For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things [done] in [his] body, according to that he hath done, whether [it be] good or bad.

  • Revelation 22:12

    And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward [is] with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.

  • Revelation 20:12

    And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is [the book] of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.
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