Romans 2 warns those who judge others while practicing the same things that God's judgment is according to truth and without partiality. It argues that outward identity and law-keeping cannot substitute for a changed heart, since God will judge secrets through Jesus Christ.

Romans 1 opens with Paul's greeting and his desire to visit Rome, then declares the gospel as God's power for salvation to everyone who believes. The chapter turns to humanity's suppression of truth, idolatry, and the resulting wrath of God.