Definition: Tribulation and anguish, upon every soul of man that doeth evil, of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this incredibly important passage from Romans 2:9. It’s a powerful statement about the consequences of our choices and how God sees us all. Here's a simplified explanation: What it means in plain language: “Romans 2:9 says that everyone who chooses to do evil – whether it's small or big, good or bad – will eventually experience suffering and pain. This isn’t just about specific people; it applies to all of humanity, both Jews and Gentiles (people from different backgrounds).” Let's unpack the key parts: “Tribulation and anguish…” : This is a metaphorical way of saying that suffering and hardship will be inevitable for everyone who chooses to do evil. It’s not about a single, dramatic event; it's a general expectation. Think of it like a storm – even if it’s not immediate, it always comes. “…upon every soul of man…” : This is crucial. It means every single person will be affected by this suffering. It doesn’t just affect the Jewish people; it affects everyone . “…that doeth evil” : This refers to actions that are harmful, wrong, or disrespectful to God and others. This could include anything from lying to stealing to being unkind. “Of the Jew first, and also of the Gentile…” : This is a really important part. It's saying that this suffering will affect everyone , but it’s not just about the Jewish people. It suggests that everyone is susceptible to God's judgment because they are capable of choosing to do wrong. It implies that we all have the potential for evil, regardless of our background or beliefs. What does this mean about us? This verse speaks to our fallen nature – that we are born with a tendency towards sin and wrongdoing. It’s a reminder that we're all prone to making mistakes and choosing the wrong path. It also highlights God's unwavering love and judgment towards everyone, even those who don’t fully understand or repent. Important Context: This verse comes before the broader argument in Romans 2:8-8, which focuses on how we should live as Christians – to turn away from evil and follow God's will. It’s a warning about the consequences of rejecting God’s grace and choosing a path of wickedness. In short, this passage warns us that everyone is susceptible to suffering because of our choices, and it emphasizes that God’s love extends to everyone regardless of their background. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Connect this verse to a specific story or example? Discuss what the verse might be saying about forgiveness and redemption?