THE CATEGORY OF «CONSCIENCE» IN THE LETTER OF THE APOSTLE PAUL TO THE ROMANS (ROM. 2)

Abstract

The article provides an exegetical analysis of the content of Rom. 2, as well as its context. On the basis of the research, it was found that the apostle Paul gave the Greek concept of «conscience» a similar meaning and functional meaning, similar to the concept of «heart» accepted in biblical Judaism. It is shown that because both Jews and pagans sinned and thus found themselves in an identical position in relation to the truth of God, despite the fact that the former had the opportunity to arrange their existence under the guidance of God’s Law, and the latter to be guided by the natural Law. One of the main ideas of the Apostle of the pagans is singled out, given that the Law was powerless in the matter of saving humanity, God fulfills and embodies His truth, that is, He shows faithfulness to His promises by saving everyone with a gift, the power of the blood of Jesus Christ (Rom. 3: 25). Pointing out that all mankind, without exception and privilege, is in the same negative situation before God, the Apostle Paul emphasizes that salvation for Jews and Pagans can be achieved only through faith in Jesus Christ the Son of God. It was found out that the main purpose of the apostle’s argumentation in regard to the matter of salvation is to try to convince people about one important criterion on the basis of which it is decided who is righteous before God and who is not, that is, to convince the Jews to circumcise their hearts, and the Gentiles to circumcise their consciences, that is, to fully submit to the will of God, which is revealed in Jesus Christ. Every person can become a participant in the gift of grace through confession of faith in the Savior Jesus Christ. However, in order to achieve the glory and honor of God in eternity, the faithful must shape their hearts and consciences with the new Law, that is, circumcise them with the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, which became the only power of God for the salvation of all (Rom. 1: 16). The proof of the implementation of the thus initiated process of salvation by Jesus Christ is the expectation of judgment at the end of the agesover all mankind, which will take place on the basis of the Gospel.