Why “Good Enough” Won’t Get You to Heaven

Many people assume that as long as they’re relatively good—attend church, avoid major sins, and try their best—they’re right with God. But Romans 2 shatters the illusion that morality, religion, or comparison to others can make us righteous in God’s eyes. The truth is, “good enough” is never enough.

The Apostle Paul challenges a common misconception in this section of Romans: that we are righteous because we recognize sin in others or because we try to obey God’s law. But God’s standard is not based on comparison or effort—it’s rooted in His absolute truth, His perfect righteousness, and the finished work of Jesus Christ.

Romans 2:2 reminds us that God “judges on the basis of truth.” That means His standard is not our opinion, our culture’s shifting morality, or how we stack up next to someone else. It’s His holiness. When we measure ourselves against God, we all fall short. Every one of us is sinful and deserving of judgment. Even our secret sins, our thoughts, and what we justify in our own minds are exposed before Him (Romans 2:16).

Trying harder or doing more doesn’t cancel out our guilt. One sin is enough to make us guilty of all (James 2:10). And even if you claim you’re not “that bad,” Scripture reminds us: “It is sin to know the good and yet not do it” (James 4:17). God sees through every excuse and rationalization.

Paul warns in Romans 2:4 not to “despise the riches of [God’s] kindness, restraint, and patience.” Many mistake God’s patience for approval. When there’s no immediate consequence, we assume we’re in the clear. But God’s kindness is not cuddly indifference—it’s mercy holding back judgment, giving us time to repent.

God doesn’t ignore sin. He’s patiently giving you space to confess it. But if you ignore His mercy, you are “storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath” (Romans 2:5). His kindness is an invitation to turn from sin, not a stamp of approval on your self-righteousness.

Romans 2:6 says, “He will repay each one according to his works.” At first glance, this may seem like salvation is based on performance. But Paul isn’t contradicting the gospel of grace. Rather, he’s clarifying that your actions reveal your heart. Those who genuinely seek God will bear fruit that reflects repentance and trust. Those who seek themselves will bear fruit of rebellion and judgment.

So ask yourself: are your works evidence of a heart pursuing God or preserving your own pride?

God’s judgment is impartial. Romans 2:11 makes it clear: “There is no favoritism with God.” Your background, religious activity, or good intentions won’t earn you a pass. God doesn’t grade on a curve. He doesn’t lower the bar for churchgoers or those who try hard.

Whether Jew or Gentile, religious or not, all are judged by the same standard—righteousness revealed through Christ. The sobering reality is that trying to be good apart from Christ leads only to condemnation.

Ultimately, God’s judgment is based on whether or not we’ve trusted in Christ. It’s not about how well we follow the rules but whether we’ve been transformed by the Spirit. Romans 2:15 speaks of a law written on the hearts of those who’ve experienced new life. Their obedience isn’t self-produced—it’s Spirit-produced.

You don’t need to justify yourself. You need to confess your sin and trust in Jesus. The beauty of the gospel is that God offers you Christ’s righteousness in place of your guilt. You’re not saved by your best efforts but by surrendering in faith.

If you’ve been clinging to religion, comparison, or performance, it’s time to let go. Turn from self-righteousness and trust in the righteousness of Christ. Confess your need for a Savior. Let God’s kindness lead you to repentance—not to pride, but to peace.

This blog is based on a message preached by Lead Pastor Dr. Brian Stone on Sunday, May 18, as part of the Romans: The Righteousness of God series. You can watch the full message here.