But unto them that are contentious, and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath,
But {G1161} unto them that are contentious {G1537}{G2052}, and {G2532} do not obey {G544}{G3303} the truth {G225}, but {G1161} obey {G3982} unrighteousness {G93}, indignation {G2372} and {G2532} wrath {G3709},
But to those who are self-seeking, who disobey the truth and obey evil, he will pay back wrath and anger.
But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow wickedness, there will be wrath and anger.
but unto them that are factious, and obey not the truth, but obey unrighteousness, shall be wrath and indignation,
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1 Timothy 6:3
If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, [even] the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; -
1 Timothy 6:4
He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, -
2 Thessalonians 2:10
And with all deceivableness of unrighteousness in them that perish; because they received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. -
2 Thessalonians 2:12
That they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. -
Proverbs 13:10
¶ Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised [is] wisdom. -
1 Peter 4:17
For the time [is come] that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if [it] first [begin] at us, what shall the end [be] of them that obey not the gospel of God? -
2 Thessalonians 1:8
In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ:
Romans 2:8 KJV is a powerful verse that describes the negative outcome for those who actively resist God's will and truth. It stands in stark contrast to the promise of eternal life for those who persevere in doing good (Romans 2:7). This verse highlights the seriousness of rejecting God's authority and choosing a path of disobedience.
Context
Chapter 2 of Romans finds the Apostle Paul laying out the principle of God's impartial judgment. He argues that judgment is not based on external factors like religious background (Jew or Gentile) but on one's actions and the state of their heart. Verses 6-11 describe two distinct groups: those who seek glory, honour, and immortality through patient continuance in well doing (receiving eternal life), and the group described in verse 8 – those who are contentious and disobedient, facing God's indignation and wrath.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The word translated "contentious" is the Greek eritheia (ἐριθεία). While it can mean strife or contention, in this context and other Pauline letters, it often carries the sense of selfish ambition, factiousness, or self-seeking rivalry, rather than mere argumentativeness. It suggests a motivation driven by self rather than truth or God.
"Obey the truth" is set against "obey unrighteousness." This is a fundamental choice presented throughout scripture: submission to God's way (truth) or submission to sin and rebellion (unrighteousness).
"Indignation and wrath" translates two Greek words, orge (ὀργὴ) and thumos (θυμός). While related, orge often implies a more settled, enduring displeasure or righteous indignation, whereas thumos can denote a more intense, perhaps quicker, burst of anger. Together, they powerfully describe God's determined and active opposition to persistent sin and rebellion, a theme also introduced in Romans 1:18.
Reflection and Application
Romans 2:8 serves as a sober warning. It challenges us to examine our hearts and actions. Are we characterized by a spirit of submission to God's truth, even when difficult, or by self-will and a preference for sin? The verse highlights that God takes our choices seriously. Choosing to persistently reject truth and embrace unrighteousness has eternal consequences. It calls believers to humility, obedience, and a genuine seeking of God's will, contrasting with the "contentious" spirit Paul describes.