Romans 2:9: Tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek.
Each one who does (“keeps on producing”) evil will receive trouble and distress, whereas each one who does (“keeps on working”) good will have glory, honor (cf. “glory and honor” in 2:7), and peace. This just recompense by God is without regard to ethnic background or any other consideration except what each person has done. 1
Jew first and of the Greek See 1:16 and note. Jews are “first” because God gave them priority in blessing (see 9:4), and they were the first people group that He personally visited and called His own. But this also means that He will give them priority in judgment. 2
Application
- Your spirit and soul really exist. Do you lead them towards goodness or evil?
- If your soul is in anguish, it needs more grace, much more grace! Receive it in faith.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for saving me from outer darkness through the light and love of Your grace.
1. Walvoord, John F., & Zuck, R. B., Dallas Theological Seminary. (1985). The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
2. Barry, J. D., Heiser, M. S., Custis, M., Mangum, D., & Whitehead, M. M. (2012). Faithlife Study Bible. Bellingham, WA: Logos Bible Software.
