We know introduces a general statement of truth acknowledged by all; in the New English Bible this appears as “it is admitted.” Because of the very general character of an expression such as we know, it may be necessary to employ “we all know” or “all men know.”

God is right when he judges refers to the standard of God’s judgment. Some take this as a reference to God’s impartial judgment (Jerusalem Bible, Phillips), while others appear to accept the same interpretation as the Good News Translation (New English Bible “God’s judgment is rightly passed”; An American Translation* “God’s judgment rightfully falls”). In some languages one must render this statement as “God is completely justified when he judges” or “God does right when he judges.”

Quoted with permission from Newman, Barclay M. and Nida, Eugene A. A Handbook on Paul’s Letter to the Romans. (UBS Handbook Series). New York: UBS, 1973. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .