Romans 2:27

By nature. “Uncircumcision which is by nature” may be considered as the counterpart of the phrase “Jews by nature” (Gal. 2:15). The words would then mean “in his natural state of uncircumcision.” Or the phrase may be regarded as the equivalent of “physically uncircumcised,” in line with the argument of Rom. 2:28, 29 that true circumcision is not something external and physical but rather a matter of the heart, spiritual and not literal.

Judge. In the sense of condemnation. The idea may be that of putting to shame by contrast (cf. Matt. 12:41, 42).

The letter. Gr. gramma. This word was used for writing or documents of all kinds (see Luke 16:6, 7; Acts 28:21). In this context it evidently refers to the written law in general. The emphasis is on the fact that the Jews possessed the law in writing, in contrast with the Gentiles, who were not so favored (Rom. 2:14). The Jews transgressed the will of God even though they had the advantages of the written law and were circumcised. Thus they are condemned by the obedience of those who fulfill the law under less favorable circumstances.