In the opening verses of chapter 2, Paul continues his diagnosis of the human condition by stating the iniquity of outwardly moral people. He begins his transition from condemning the Gentile society to a condemnation of the Jewish people by accusing those who look to their own righteousness and, in their pride, consider their empty religion as meritorious for their justification. He asserts that those who pass judgement on others are guilty of the very same sins and are therefore equally in need of the Gospel. He reveals the need of all for the redeeming work of Christ through the Gospel.