In the first two chapters of Romans, Paul recounts the human dilemma in a profound way. While we might like to turn the chapter and focus on the good news, Paul instead reiterates the problem. Everyone sins, and all are responsible for their sin – religious (Jew), irreligious (Gentile), the churched (those with God’s Law), the unchurched (those without God’s Law). In chapter 2, Paul highlights a less obvious form of sin; hypocrisy and moral superiority that judges others while committing the same sins (Rom 2:1). Are you presuming on God’s patience and kindness, reasoning that your sin (even sin in the heart) is not a problem (Rom 2:4)? Are you relying on religious acts or religious status for righteousness before God (Rom 2:17-24)?
Jesus Christ is the only one who fulfilled the law perfectly. Every person desperately needs His righteousness to stand before God on judgment day. Christ’s righteousness (the righteousness of God) is made available, for free, through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe (Rom 3:21-22).