Book of Romans - Chapter 2 - Verse 15

In this verse, the Apostle Paul is explaining the concept of the moral law being written on the hearts of all individuals. He refers to the law as something that is instinctively known to every person, regardless of whether they have been exposed to the teachings of the Mosaic law. The conscience, according to Paul, serves as the internal witness that either accuses or excuses people based on their actions and thoughts. This means that even without direct knowledge of the law, people have a sense of right and wrong ingrained within them. Therefore, everyone has a basic understanding of morality and will be held accountable for their actions based on this inherent knowledge. This verse highlights the universal nature of moral law and the accountability that comes with it, emphasizing the importance of listening to one's conscience and living in accordance with what is considered right and wrong.

In this verse, the apostle Paul is highlighting the idea that even those who do not have the written law of God still have an innate sense of right and wrong. The phrase "work of the law written in their hearts" suggests that the moral principles of the Mosaic law are embedded in the conscience of every individual, believer or not. This notion aligns with the theological understanding of the human conscience as a moral compass that God has instilled in all people. The reference to "their thoughts...accusing or else excusing one another" emphasizes the internal struggle between good and evil that occurs within each individual. This internal conflict is attributed to the presence of the law written on our hearts, guiding our decisions and convictions. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the universal nature of God's moral law and the accountability we all have, believers and non-believers alike, to live in accordance with it.