God "will give to each person according to what he has done." To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile; but glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.
(v6-10, NIV)
This section has a very simple formula. Do good and you'll get eternal life. However, if you do bad, you'll receive wrath. Now, it may seem like it's saying that salvation is based upon works, but it is not saying that. Most importantly we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ and not by works. We know this from other parts of the bible and the bible does not contradict itself. Therefore, we must explore this section to understand what it really means. It is not referring to perfect law-keeping which nobody can do because all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Rather, there is repentance and turning from sin and an increasing in holiness and righteousness. This is what this passage is talking about and it is evident in those who receive eternal life.
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