Daily Readings (Page 303)

Paul reminds us that the outward signs must be accompanied by an inward reality. List at least three changes you desire to take place in your life because of this passage.

In your own words, what does Paul teach about the value of circumcision and true Jewishness? Can you make the same distinction for a Christian?

How was God’s name blasphemed among the Gentiles? What kind of testimony were they supposed to have? How about us today?

Paul makes it clear that mere knowledge of God’s will and ways is insufficient. Nor is it enough to teach others God’s ways. So what then really counts?

How does Paul describe the attitude of the Jew? How does he describe the law?

What three “ifs” does Paul give in this passage?

What is the big idea of this passage? What verses stand out as particularly important to Paul’s point?

If a person never reads or hears anything about the Gospel, what can he still know about God and about right and wrong? On what basis will God hold such a person accountable on the Day of judgement?

Why does Paul say “to the Jew first and also to the Greek” (2:9,10)? Why the Jew first? Is that good news or bad news for them?

Paul states that eternal life will be given to those who seek it by “persistence in doing good”. How can this be reconciled with his teaching later in Romans (3:20-24, 28) that salvation is a free gift and comes through faith, not works?