Romans - God's Judgment of Sin - Part 1

God’s Judgment of Sin - Part 1

Romans 2:1-4 _NLT

“You may think you can condemn such people, but you are just as bad, and you have no excuse! When you say they are wicked and should be punished, you are condemning yourself, for you who judge others do these very same things. ² And we know that God, in his justice, will punish anyone who does such things. ³ Since you judge others for doing these things, why do you think you can avoid God’s judgment when you do the same things? ⁴ Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?”

            Because we are human we all tend to judge others, not realizing that often times we do the very same thing we are judging others for. We see ourselves as innocent, but we must be very careful, for we are building up punishment for ourselves. For example, a person who gossips may be very critical of others who gossip about him or her.

                  Paul pointed out his condemnation of idol worshipers, those who practice homosexuality, and violent people; however, his listeners must have been startled and surprised when Paul turn on them saying, “you are just as bad” and “you have no excuse”. The apostle emphatically stresses that ALL have sinned... and there is no way to be saved from sins consequences apart from Christ. We are saved by HIS shed blood. We need to embrace salvation, for it is thru salvation we have the opportunity to become like Christ in word and deed. 

                  God exhibits great patience by holding back His judgment. This patience allows us the opportunity to turn from our wicked ways and become ‘saved’...forgiven by God for all we have ever done contrary to His statutes. It is imperative that we never mistake God’s patience for weakness or approval of our sinful actions. What we must do is perform a self-evaluation which can be a little daunting, but it is much worse to approach God and have Him point out what needs to change in our behavior. This is the one way we can become healed. Sad to say, we’re much more likely to be amazed at God’s patience with others than humbled by His patience with us. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

In His name & for His glory,

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries

Resource: The Life Application Study Bible.