What does "rely on the law" mean in the context of Romans 2:17? Setting the Scene: Romans 2:17 in Context • Romans 2 addresses those who consider themselves spiritually privileged. • Verse 17 pinpoints Jewish readers who feel secure because of God’s covenant: “Now you, if you call yourself a Jew; if you rely on the law and boast in God” (Romans 2:17). • Paul is exposing a misplaced confidence: resting on possession of the law rather than obedience to it. Unpacking “Rely on the Law” • “Rely” translates a term meaning “to rest upon, trust in, depend on.” • Paul confronts an attitude that equates having the Torah with spiritual safety. • Key idea: holding Scripture in hand is not the same as submitting to its authority in heart and life. How Reliance Drifted into Presumption • Covenant privilege became a badge rather than a calling (Jeremiah 7:4). • Teachers claimed moral security because they possessed divine revelation (John 5:39-40). • The law was treated as a fence keeping judgment out, instead of a mirror revealing sin (James 1:23-24). Paul’s Line of Reasoning 1. Possession of the law brings knowledge of God’s will (Romans 2:18). 2. Knowledge increases accountability (Luke 12:48). 3. Failing to live what is known brings condemnation (Romans 2:23-24). 4. Therefore, reliance on the law—without obedience—cannot justify (Romans 2:13). Cross-References that Illuminate the Phrase • Romans 3:20 – “Therefore no one will be justified in His sight by works of the law, for the law merely brings awareness of sin.” • Galatians 2:16 – “A man is not justified by works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ.” • Philippians 3:4-6 – Paul lists his own credentials “as to the law, a Pharisee,” yet later counts them loss (v. 7-8). Contrast: True Use of the Law • 1 Timothy 1:8 – “We know that the law is good, if one uses it legitimately.” • Legitimate use: – Exposes sin (Romans 7:7). – Leads to Christ for righteousness (Galatians 3:24). – Guides redeemed living (Psalm 119:105). Takeaway for Today • Reliance on outward markers—heritage, rituals, Bible knowledge—cannot replace a surrendered heart. • Scripture must be trusted, obeyed, and fulfilled in Christ, not merely possessed. • The call remains: shift confidence from personal merit or religious pedigree to the saving work of Jesus, “the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes” (Romans 10:4). |
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