In your own words, describe Paul’s argument in 2:12b-13.  Who does he mean by “those who have sinned under the law”?  What does he mean when he says that they will be judged by the law?

In your own words, describe Paul’s argument in 2:12a, 14-15.  Who does he mean by “those who have sinned without the law”?  Why does he say that they will perish without the law?

How does Paul show that Jewish (religious) people are guilty before God?  And that God is just to punish them?

How does Paul show that Gentiles (non-religious people) are guilty before God?  And that God is just to punish them?

What are some of the ways that Paul describes a Jewish (religious) person?  (2:17-20)  Do you think that any of these descriptions could (or should) apply to you?  What kinds of responsibilities come hand in hand with these characteristics?

What questions does Paul ask of the Jewish (religious) person?  (2:21-22)  What do you think that he is intending to accomplish with these questions?

What are some of the dangerous effects of religious hypocrisy?  (2:23-24)  How does it affect God’s reputation?  How does religious hypocrisy cause the name of God to be blasphemed among the nations?

What are some signs or symptoms of “dead orthodoxy”?

According to Paul, what is the value of circumcision (religious observance), in and of itself?  (2:25-27)  What does it look like to practice religious observances in a way that is unhealthy?  What does it look like to practice them in a way that is healthy and godly?  How can we guard against the former, and cultivate the latter?

What does it mean to be a Jew (religious person) outwardly?  What does it mean to be a Jew (religious person) inwardly?  (2:28-29)

How can we guard against external religious hypocrisy in our lives?  How can we be intentional to cultivate true internal religion (religion that is a matter of the heart, by the Spirit)?

Are there any outward signs of religion that you are at risk of caring too much about, and over-emphasizing?  Are there any inward matters that you are at risk of caring too little about, and neglecting?

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