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Romans 2: God’s “Blind Justice”

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"Blind Justice"

Ancient Rome adopted the image of a female goddess of justice called “Justitia.” Since Roman times, Justitia has frequently been depicted carrying scales and a sword, and wearing a blindfold. In our times her form is most often seen as a statue and is often referred to as "Lady Justice" or "Blind Justice" (because in later times she is depicted with a blindfold which represents objectivity and impartiality for justice under the law).

The Rostra in Rome

The Roman Christians whom Paul was addressing had presumably familiarized themselves with the topic of civil judgment and law. The Roman culture “lived and breathed” such ideas. In fact, a formal place within Rome where civil judgments were announced and legal issues were debated was known as the “Rostra.” Rome lived and breathed the topic of civil judgment and the law that we have established their “system” and ideals in the centuries since (e.g., court procedures, legal terminology, etc.) its rise and decline.

One could say that Paul’s message to the Romans here in this chapter really characterizes God as having “blind justice.” God’s judgment and law are “righteous” or fair to all. For Paul even writes, “There will be trouble and distress for every human being [literally, “soul”] who does evil…For God does not show favoritism” (2:9,11). In Romans 2, Paul was turning his attention to those Romans who thought of themselves as having a little better “moral compass” than those he described earlier in chapter one (1:21-32). Evidently, some of the Roman Christians that Paul was writing to (it seems like a good portion of them were Jews, 2:17-29) started comparing their way of life with the depraved conduct of unbelieving Gentiles around them. They weren’t carrying out the gross acts others were, so they felt self-righteously superior. Paul wanted to set them straight on this issue: “blind justice” under God’s law is delivered; “God does not show favoritism.” Paul wished they turn their hearts in repentance for their sinful pride to the Lord.

Do you ever compare yourself to others, especially when you do something wrong? Perhaps it is in comparing how your spouse has wronged you? Maybe it is when you want to shift the blame of being caught in the act of wrongdoing? May we heed this solemn warning from Paul in God’s Word and not get caught up in comparing ourselves to the wrong standard. Here’s what I mean: rather than look at the gross misbehavior in others and think that my life is fine in God’s eyes under his law, let me realize and confess that I am just as much a sinner in God’s eyes under his law. And then look to the kindness, patience, and mercy of a loving Lord, who has given me G.R.A.C.E. (“God’s Riches at Christ’s Expense”).

Reveling in Romans, Pastor Andy

"Summer in Rome" Reading: Romans 2-3