New Testament
Romans 2:9
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Romans 2:9, Paul emphasizes that everyone who commits evil will face suffering and distress, regardless of their background.
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 57
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- Christians in Rome
There will be tribulation and anguish for every person who does evil — for the Jew first, and also for the Gentile.
Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Romans 2:9, Paul emphasizes that everyone who commits evil will face suffering and distress, regardless of their background. He highlights that this applies first to the Jews, who had the law and knowledge of God, and then to the Gentiles, who were outside of that covenant. This verse serves as a reminder that God's judgment is impartial and that all people are accountable for their actions. The mention of 'tribulation and anguish' indicates the seriousness of sin and the consequences that follow. Paul is stressing that privilege does not exempt anyone from judgment; rather, it intensifies the responsibility to live righteously. This verse calls for self-examination and a recognition that both Jews and Gentiles must turn from evil to avoid the impending consequences of their actions.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Romans 2:9 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our actions and their consequences. It reminds us that everyone, regardless of their background, is accountable to God. We should strive to live righteously and avoid evil, understanding that our choices have significant impacts on our lives and others.
Curated for this public verse page. Romans Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Romans 2:9 mean?
Romans 2:9 means that everyone who does evil will experience suffering and distress, regardless of whether they are Jewish or Gentile. It emphasizes that God's judgment is fair and applies to all people.
What is the meaning of 'tribulation and anguish' in Romans 2:9?
In Romans 2:9, 'tribulation and anguish' refer to the serious consequences and suffering that result from committing evil actions. This phrase highlights the gravity of sin and the inevitable judgment that follows.
How does Romans 2:9 apply to our lives today?
Romans 2:9 encourages us to examine our actions and recognize that everyone is responsible for their choices. It reminds us to strive for righteousness and understand the serious implications of our behavior.
Who does Romans 2:9 refer to when it mentions 'the Jew first, and also the Gentile'?
The phrase 'the Jew first, and also the Gentile' in Romans 2:9 indicates that the Jews, who had the law and knowledge of God, are first in line for judgment, followed by the Gentiles, who are outside that covenant. It underscores the idea that all are accountable to God.
The Book of Romans
Romans 1: Paul's Greeting and the Wrath of God Against Ungodliness
Paul introduces himself as a servant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle and separated to preach the gospel of God. He says this gospel concerns God's Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who is made of the seed of David according to the flesh and declared to be the Son of God with power by the resurrection from the dead. Paul explains that through Christ he receives grace and apostleship to bring about obedience of faith among all nations. He addresses the believers in Rome as those loved by God and called to be saints, and he gives thanks for their faith, which is spoken of throughout the whole world. He tells them he prays continually to visit them and longs to see them so he may share a spiritual gift and be comforted together with them by mutual faith.
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