“For there is no partiality with God” (Romans 2:11).
Romans 2:11 presents a characteristic that is easily discerned, yet rarely practiced: impartiality. For instance, most of us have likely encountered the adverse effects of partiality at various points throughout our lives. Much like the Biblical example of Jacob and his son Joseph, some parents have favorites among their sons and daughters. Then there are employers who promote favored employees while other, more qualified candidates are denied an opportunity for advancement. These, and other such examples abound in everyday life, often with predictably negative results.
But there are other, less conspicuous illustrations of partiality that may be easy to miss. Consider the example of those who favor others on the basis of…
- Shared allegiances.
- Common interests.
- Physical attraction.
- Wealth.
- Influence.
- Political affiliation
- Family relationships, or other arbitrary qualities.
These expressions of partiality are so ingrained that we may fail to notice them, except when they impact us in an unfavorable way. This helps explain why Romans 2:11 is easy to understand, but difficult to grasp.
While human beings might overlook the transgressions of those whom they favor, God will treat everyone with absolute, unconditional impartiality. That characteristic quality is restated in both the Old and New Testaments…
“You shall not show partiality in judgment; you shall hear the small as well as the great; you shall not be afraid in any man’s presence, for the judgment is God’s…” (Deuteronomy 1:17).
“…Judge carefully, for with the LORD our God there is no injustice or partiality or bribery” (2 Chronicles 19:7 NIV).
“…God shows no partiality and is no respecter of persons” (Acts 10:34 AMPC).
“And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one’s work, conduct yourselves throughout the time of your stay here in fear” (1 Peter 1:17).
So, this verse reminds us that God will treat everyone without favoritism, partiality, or bias. The following source offers several modern-day applications that help provide us with a timely reminder…
“By personal application, this teaching should be related to those who believe they are saved because they were born into a Christian family, have godly parents and were baptized as a child. This should also be related to the nice people, who have been and are living a moral life and have more integrity than many who profess to be disciples of Jesus Christ.
If you fall into that category, as Paul addresses the Jew, realize that he is addressing you if you are trusting in your godly heritage or your moral integrity for salvation.” (1)
Image Attribution: “lady justice” Public Domain, CC0, via rawpixel
(1) Dick Woodward, Mini Bible College Booklet Twenty-Nine The Book Of Romans Verse By Verse (part one) [pg.24] https://mbc.icm.org/