A common misinterpretation is viewing this verse as evidence that following one's conscience alone can lead to salvation or moral perfection without Christ, ignoring the surrounding context in Romans that declares all have sinned and fall short, needing redemption through faith; others erroneously treat conscience as infallible or sufficient to replace Scripture, whereas Paul highlights its role in convicting of sin rather than justifying independently.
Romans 2:15
King James Version (1769)
15 Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)
Paul teaches that Gentiles, who do not possess the Mosaic Law outwardly, demonstrate its principles inwardly through the law written on their hearts, as their conscience bears witness by accusing or excusing them based on their thoughts and deeds, revealing God's universal moral standard that holds all humanity accountable on the day of judgment.