Paul presents in Romans 1:18 through Romans 3:19 this truth. All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. No one is righteous. And no one seeks God. No chance for anyone to work their way to righteousness. Yet, it is important to understand that God’s Glory is at stake. If He did not fulfill His righteousness, His justice, and His Love in dealing with the sin of humanity. How can anyone be truly justified freely? Can He remain fully just and righteous if He allows the despising of His Glory without any decree of punishment? Without Wrath?
To be truly Justified Freely, requires the shedding of blood. But if we cannot of our own volition be saved from the sin that entraps us, how can we be saved? Our justification cannot be by our own working to be better. Then how can we be freely justified? The wage of sin is death. The just decree is our death with no hope. There is no propitiation for sin, no satisfying the offense against God’s Glory, without the shedding of blood. Once dead, no chance to repent. But if the only innocent, sinless person who walked the earth freely paid the price for us. Would that be enough to declare everyone free? It would except what about those who do not believe in Him? Was He the propitiation for their sin? Did He bare their wrath as well?
Would that be Just? If Jesus bore their wrath, why should they? Or was it, He gave His life for His bride. Knowing, seeing, and loving each one of us before the earth was formed?
How Can God be the Justifier and We be Truly Justified Freely
Could it be like Boaz redeemed Ruth, Christ became our kinsmen redeemer. Or the ram caught in the thicket that died in the place of Isaac because of faith. Noah who because of faith was saved through the flood. Not because of perfect righteousness. But because He believed God. Or even Adam and Eve who did not die themselves. But were saved from sudden death by the substitutionary death of an animal from which God clothed Adam and Eve. This a representation and foreshadowing of what was to come. Jesus would take their wrath upon Himself, shed His blood, and clothe all who believe in Him with His righteousness.
How do I know their salvation was due to faith? Read this from Genesis 3.
Now they heard the sound of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and the man and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God among the trees of the garden. Then the Lord God called to the man, and said to him, “Where are you?” He said, “I heard the sound of You in the garden, and I was afraid because I was naked; so I hid myself.” And He said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten from the tree from which I commanded you not to eat?” The man said, “The woman whom You gave to be with me, she gave me some of the fruit of the tree, and I ate.” Then the Lord God said to the woman, “What is this that you have done?” And the woman said, “The serpent deceived me, and I ate.” Genesis 3:8-13 NASB
Note at this point there was no true repentance. Nor was there really any hope. Yet, God had not appeared in sudden wrath. Instead, He was walking in His Shekinah Glory as He had always walked with them. It was at that point, God said,
So the LORD God said to the serpent: “Because you have done this, cursed are you above all livestock and every beast of the field! On your belly will you go, and dust you will eat, all the days of your life. And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her seed. He will crush your head, and you will strike his heel.” Genesis 3:14-15 Berean Standard Bible
At this point God foretold of Jesus Christ who was to come and crush the head of Satan.
To the woman He said,
“I will greatly multiply
Your pain in childbirth,
In pain you shall deliver children;
Yet your desire will be for your husband,
And he shall rule over you.” Genesis 3:16 NASB
He then points out that sin entered because Adam chose to listen to his wife instead of God. Instead of trusting God, Adam put his wife ahead of God. It had been Adam God told not to eat. He was to be the protector and the leader of his wife, the God given role.
Then to Adam He said, “Because you have listened to the voice of your wife, and have eaten from the tree about which I commanded you, saying, ‘You shall not eat from it’;
Cursed is the ground because of you;
With hard labor you shall eat from it
All the days of your life.
Both thorns and thistles it shall grow for you;
Yet you shall eat the plants of the field;
By the sweat of your face
You shall eat bread,
Until you return to the ground,
Because from it you were taken;
For you are dust,
And to dust you shall return.” Genesis 3:17-19 NASB
It was then that Adam named EVE (life), indicating that he understood God was sending someone through her to crush Satan’s head.
Now the man named his wife Eve, because she was the mother of all the living. And the Lord God made garments of skin for Adam and his wife and clothed them. Genesis 3:20 NASB
Now it was after Adam believed by faith that salvation was going to come by God Alone through a redeemer, then God clothed them in His righteousness because of faith. Yet, God proclaimed the salvation to come before they demonstrated faith. This is crucial to understand. Choice is present. Also, God foreordained the response of Adam and salvation comes only through the absolute Sovereign work of God alone. Even if I do not understand fully how both are true, I know the Bible teaches both as equally true. One day I will understand. Yet, this truth has been ever present from the beginning.
Justified Freely by Faith Because of the Gospel
Paul had introduced the truth that justification is by faith in Romans 1.
I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “The just shall live by faith.” Romans 1:16 NKJV
That is the good news Paul wants to share with the Romans and all the world. But before they could understand this, he spent the next verses and chapters explaining how all have sinned. None are righteous on our own. Therefore, without the gospel of Christ there is no means of salvation. Now he has returned to further explain the truth of salvation. It is apart from the law and not through the law.
now the righteousness of God apart from the law is revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference; for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus, whom God set forth as a propitiation by His blood, through faith, Romans 3:21-25 NKJV
God is the only hope of Righteousness for the human race. For only He is righteous. Only He can provide a robe of righteousness to all who believe in the redemption that is in Jesus Christ. Redemption set forth by the propitiation provided by His blood, through faith. Thus allowing those who believe to be fully justified freely.
I will rejoice greatly in the Lord,
My soul will be joyful in my God;
For He has clothed me with garments of salvation,
He has wrapped me with a robe of righteousness, Isaiah 62:10 NASB
How Are We Justified Freely by Propitiation of the Blood of Jesus Christ
Propitiation is the act of appeasing or making well-disposed a deity, thus incurring divine favor or avoiding divine retribution. The word was well known throughout all the nations and all the false religions. Yet, is the word denoting payment in full for the sins of the ones seeking restitution to favor.
It was at a tremendous price. Jesus Christ came and took upon His flesh the full weight of the wrath of God against Himself. That was the struggle we saw in the Garden of Gethsemane. Yet, His love for us and His absolute surrender to the will of the Father were what drove Him to the cross. His blood was the propitiation for our sin.
My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world. I John 2: 1-2 KJV
This is further explained by John McArthur in his study bible.
2:2 propitiation. Cf. 4:10. The word means “appeasement” or “satisfaction.” The sacrifice of Jesus on the cross satisfied the demands of God’s holiness for the punishment of sin (cf. Rom. 1:18; 2 Cor. 5:21; Eph. 2:3). So Jesus propitiated or satisfied God. See notes on Heb. 2:17; 9:15 for a clear illustration of propitiation. for the whole world. This is a generic term, referring not to every single individual, but to mankind in general. Christ actually paid the penalty only for those who would repent and believe. A number of Scriptures indicate that Christ died for the world (John 1:29; 3:16; 6:51; 1 Tim. 2:6; Heb. 2:9). Most of the world will be eternally condemned to hell to pay for their own sins, so they could not have been paid for by Christ. The passages which speak of Christ’s dying for the whole world must be understood to refer to mankind in general (as in Titus 2:11). “World” indicates the sphere, the beings toward whom God seeks reconciliation and has provided propitiation. God has mitigated His wrath on sinners temporarily, by letting them live and enjoy earthly life (see note on 1 Tim. 4:10). In that sense, Christ has provided a brief, temporal propitiation for the whole world. But He actually satisfied fully the wrath of God eternally only for the elect who believe. Christ’s death in itself had unlimited and infinite value because He is Holy God. Thus His sacrifice was sufficient to pay the penalty for all the sins of all whom God brings to faith. But the actual satisfaction and atonement was made only for those who believe (cf. John 10:11, 15; 17:9, 20; Acts 20:28; Rom. 8:32, 37; Eph. 5:25). The pardon for sin is offered to the whole world, but received only by those who believe (cf. 4:9, 14; John 5:24). There is no other way to be reconciled to God.
Therefore, We are Justified Freely
To be justified is a court term. Rather than being condemned we are declared not guilty. That is how we are covered by the robes of righteousness that are Jesus Christ’s robes. Covered by the blood of Christ, our sins have be covered completely. That is the only way God could remain just and allow us to be justified freely through faith. The price was paid by Jesus Christ. Therefore the Glory of God, His Righteousness remained on display.
On the way to the Garden Jesus prayed that the Glory of God the Father be revealed through Him to the world. And in thus, His own Glory restored as He returned to His throne beside the Father. Furthermore, He prayed that their Glory be shared with us who believe in him.
That is how God’s full righteousness is displayed.
A quote from Jonathan Edwards to close:
Do not presume upon the mercy of God, and so encourage yourself in sin. Many hear that God’s mercy is infinite, and therefore think, that if they delay seeking salvation for the present, and seek it later in life, that God will bestow His grace upon them. But consider, that though God’s grace is sufficient, yet He is sovereign, and will use His own pleasure to determine whether He will save you or not. If you put off salvation till the end of your life, salvation will not be in your power. It will be as a sovereign God pleases, whether you shall obtain it or not. Therefore, seeing that in this matter you are so absolutely dependent on God, it is best to follow His direction in seeking it, which is to listen to His voice, which says, “Today, if you hear My voice, do not harden your hearts” [Psalm 95:7-8].
Beware also of discouragement. Take heed of despairing thoughts, because you are a great sinner, because you have persevered so long in sin, have backslidden, and resisted the Holy Spirit. Remember that, no matter what your case may be, no matter how great a sinner you are, God can bestow mercy upon you without the least prejudice to the honor of His holiness, which you have offended, or to the honor of His majesty, which you have insulted, or of His justice, which you have made your enemy, or of His truth, or of any of His attributes. Let you be what sinner you may, God can, if He pleases, greatly glorify Himself in your salvation. Amen. Jonathan Edwards https://www.biblebb.com/files/edwards/je-sovereign.htm
And please read some of J. I Packer to further understand
The particular antinomy which concerns us here is the apparent opposition between divine sovereignty and human responsibility, or (putting it more biblically) between what God does as King and what He does as Judge. Scripture teaches that, as King, He orders and controls all things, human actions among them, in accordance with His own eternal purpose (See Gen. 45:8, 1:20; Prov. 16:9, 21:1; Matt. 10:29; Acts 4:27 f.; Rom. 9:20 f.; Eph. 1:11; etc.). Scripture also teaches that, as Judge, He holds every man responsible for the choices he makes and the courses of action he pursues (See Matt. 25; Rom. 2:1-16; Rev. 20:11-13; etc.). Thus, hearers of the gospel are responsible for their reaction; if they reject the good news, they are guilty of unbelief. “He that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed…” (John 3:18; cf. Matt. 11:20-24; Acts 13:38-41; 2 Thes. 1:7-10; etc.) Again, Paul, entrusted with the gospel, is responsible for preaching it; if he neglects his commission, he is penalized for unfaithfulness. “Necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!” (1 Cor. 14:16; cf. Eze. 3:17 ff., 23:7 ff.
) God’s sovereignty and man’s responsibility are taught us side by side in the same Bible; sometimes, indeed, in the same text (E.g., Luke 22:22, “the Son of man goeth (to His death), as it was determined; but woe unto that man by whom He is betrayed’’ Cf. Acts 2:23.). Both are thus guaranteed to us by the same divine authority; both, therefore, are true. It follows that they must be held together, and not played off against each other:
Man is a responsible moral agent, though he is also divinely controlled.
Man is divinely controlled, though he is also a responsible moral agent.
God’s sovereignty is a reality, and man’s responsibility is a reality too. This is the revealed antinomy in terms of which we have to do our thinking about evangelism.
To our finite minds, of course, the thing is inexplicable. It sounds like a contradiction, and our first reaction is to complain that it is absurd. Paul notices this complaint in Romans 9. “Thou wilt say then unto me, Why does He (God) yet find fault? For who hath resisted His will?’ (Rom. 9:19). If, as our Lord, God orders all our actions, how can it be reasonable or right for Him to act also as our Judge, and condemn our shortcomings? Observe how Paul replies. He does not attempt to demonstrate the propriety of God’s action; instead, he rebukes the spirit of the question. “Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God?’ (Rom. 9:20).
The creature has no right What the objector has to learn is that he, a creature and a sinner, has no right whatsoever to find fault with the revealed ways of God. Creatures are not entitled to register complaints about their Creator. As Paul goes on to say, God’s sovereignty is wholly just, for His right to dispose of His creatures is absolute (Rom. 9:20 f.). Earlier in the Epistle, he had shown that God’s judgment of sinners is also wholly just, since our sins richly deserve His sentence (Rom. 1:18 ff., 32; 2:1-16.).Our part, he would tell us, is to acknowledge these facts, and to adore God’s righteousness, both as King and as Judge. Our part is not to speculate as to how His just sovereignty can be consistent with His just judgment, and certainly not to call the justice of either in question because we find the problem of their relationship too hard for us. Our speculations are not the measure of our God. The Creator has told us that He is both a sovereign Lord and a righteous Judge, and that should be enough for us. Why do we hesitate to take His word for it? Can we not trust what He says?
The Creator is incomprehensible to His creatures We ought not in any case to be surprised when we find mysteries of this sort in God’s Word⎯for the Creator is incomprehensible to His creatures. A God whom we could understand exhaustively, and whose revelation of Himself confronted us with no mysteries whatsoever, would be a God in man’s image, and therefore an imaginary God, not the God of the Bible at all. For what the God of the Bible says is this: “My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways… As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts” (Isa. 55:8 f.).
Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility – J. I. Packer
How both biblical truths coexist in God’s grace, by J. I. Packer, 1961
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.
Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.
For Prayer or Comments
If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here
Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Please note: This Post only has quotes from the NKJV Bible except where otherwise indicated
In the previous two chapters, Paul made his case for there being no advantage to circumcision. No excuse for any male nor female not knowing, worshipping God. After all He reveals Himself throughout His creation. Yet, Paul is very aware his audience will object. Did not God call Abraham to be the father of a great nation, chosen by God Himself? Despite all they went through, God preserved them as a nation. Israel was re-established after all the years of exile (for their own rebellious hearts). But God was faithful. Watch carefully as Paul proceeds forward with his apologetic arguments to dispel their questions. And to demonstrate they had been given the greatest gift of all. The very Word of God. That alone can set a heart on Fire. But alas many did not believe. Instead, they looked to heritage, traditions and self-righteousness to be their security.
Squandering the very thing that would have, could have saved them. Their most precious possession, the oracles of God which proclaimed the gospel message of Christ from the beginning. Yet, they were blinded to the truth of the Word of God. Hence stiffening and making their heart cold rather than being flamed into a heart on fire for God and His gospel message. So, as we read these scriptures, keep in mind even Peter thought Paul was at times hard to understand. But that we must be on guard to not be carried away with error.
STEP by STEP Through the Word
Therefore, beloved, since you look for these things, be diligent to be found spotless and blameless by Him, at peace, and regard the patience of our Lord as salvation; just as also our beloved brother Paul, according to the wisdom given him, wrote to you, as also in all his letters, speaking in them of these things, in which there are some things that are hard to understand, which the untaught and unstable distort, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures, to their own destruction. You, therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, be on your guard so that you are not carried away by the error of unscrupulous people and lose your own firm commitment, but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen. 2 Peter 3:14-18 NASB
Paul Presents a series of questions and answers to address the objections raised.
Then what advantage does the Jew have? Or what is the benefit of circumcision? Romans 3:1
So, Paul did you not just finish arguing that there was no advantage in circumcision? Which is it? Are you now going to say there is? Well, yes and no. Read on.
Great in every respect. First, that they were entrusted with the actual words of God. Romans 3:2 NASB
They were given the very words of God—that was a tremendous advantage. Called out to be God’s people, but even with His words, they remained a stiff-necked, cold-hearted people. Why? Like Adam and Eve, they failed to believe the Word of God as fully true. They doubted and wanted to believe themselves to be their own Creator, not the created. Pride with all its ugly tentacles held fast. With all the scripture and prophets pointing to Christ, they hung Him on the cross. Why? Because He did not come the way they wanted Him to. But does that change who God is in any way? Not one iota!
What then? If some did not believe, their unbelief will not nullify the faithfulness of God, will it? Far from it! Rather, God must prove to be true, though every person be found a liar, as it is written:
“So that You are justified in Your words,
And prevail when You are judged.” Romans 3: 3-4 NASB
The Apologetic Arguments continue as the Word of God flames a Heart on Fire
But if our unrighteousness demonstrates the righteousness of God, what shall we say? The God who inflicts wrath is not unrighteous, is He? (I am speaking from a human viewpoint.)Romans 3:5 NASB
Ok, Paul, so you are saying we can only see God’s righteousness because of our own unrighteousness? Then is it fair that God would show wrath toward us for our unrighteousness? He needs us to demonstrate His righteousness. This question will continue to build until we reach chapter 9. So don’t think we will fully answer here. but we will step by step as we proceed. For now, we see Paul’s first answer.
Far from it! For otherwise, how will God judge the world? Romans 3:6 NASB
He can judge the world because He is perfect righteousness. We are but broken clay pots. Yet we think of ourselves as fine Porcelain China. As though deserving all His Goodness for our own attempts to prove our goodness.
But if through my lie the truth of God abounded to His glory, why am I also still being judged as a sinner? And why not say (just as we are slanderously reported and as some claim that we say), “Let’s do evil that good may come of it”? Their condemnation is deserved. Romans 3:7-8 (NASB)
How often do I or we look at someone else and cry out, “Condemned!”?
So, does just reading the Word of God put a heart on fire?
What then? Are we better than they? Romans 3:9a NASB
So, by being given the Word of God, are we better than anyone else? Growing up in a Christian nation or in a church saves us? Or are we the same? Are we better because God called us to be His child?
Not at all; for we have already charged that both Jews and Greeks are all under sin; as it is written: Romans 3:9b-10 NASB
Then Paul quotes Old Testament scripture to include Psalms 14, Psalm 5:9, Psalm 10, Isaiah 59, Jeremiah 6:14, and Psalm 36:1,
“There is no righteous person, not even one;
There is no one who understands,
There is no one who seeks out God;
They have all turned aside, together they have become [i]corrupt;
There is no one who does good,
There is not even one.”
“Their throat is an open grave,
With their tongues they keep deceiving,”
“The venom of asps is under their lips”;
“Their mouth is full of cursing and bitterness”;
“Their feet are swift to shed blood,
Destruction and misery are in their paths,
And they have not known the way of peace.”
“There is no fear of God before their eyes.” Romans 3: 11-18 NASB
That pretty much sums up the argument. We are all lost and unable to fulfill any part of the law because we have wicked hearts.
Why Do We who know the Word of God, struggle the most?
Now we know that whatever the Law says, it speaks to those who are under the Law, so that every mouth may be closed and all the world may become accountable to God; because by the works of the Law none of mankind will be justified in His sight; for through the Law comes knowledge of sin. Romans 3:19-20 NASB
To Bring this all home:
The longer I walk with God, the more I realize the depth of my own inadequacies and my own sins. The more wondrous the Word of God becomes to me. Its preciousness in revealing Him, the more I see of my own sin. The thoughts that wander into my brain. Thoughts condemning another for the very things I too do. Or the moment of happiness (however brief) I feel when someone faces the same trials they had perpetrated toward me.
Those thoughts came full circle for me on Thursday. That morning, my reading took me to Psalm 94 and I wept under the weight of it. Yet, with an underlying peace because I knew it was God who held me up even then. That is when I wrote this poem. Writing poetry transports my mind back to the reality of the wondrous Word of God. Then I am reminded how only He can set my heart on fire for Him.
Desire a Love on Fire
Broken vessels are we all
Cling tight, O Lord lest I should fall
Whatever part of darkness lies
Within this heart so well disguised
Oh God remove the pride, the stain
That only You within remain
Oh Lord I plead my one desire
A Passion for Your love on fire
For only if You hear my plea
Cut out the darkness that is me
And let Your Spirit shine forth free
Remove the dross that I now see
Of all the pride hid deep within
That binds this heart with its own sin
My Gracious Lord I know Your love for me
Has heard my cry my earnest plea
For by Your Grace, Your love divine
That saved this wretched heart of mine
And day by day your work within
Transforming me, I might not sin
Oh, hold me tight within your arms
For there I’m safe from any harms
Your faithful promises I see
For You, dear Lord have chosen me
And on this hope my soul shall rest
You only bring to me Your best
And if the shadows do surround
In You my hope and joy are found
Let all the mountains rise in song
And to Your throne my anthems throng
My hope, my love, my one desire
Come set this heart of mine on fire
That all of whom I meet today
Will see Your Grace on full display
So, Why Is It at Times Harder for Us Who Know Him?
In a sense, like my son told me today, “we feel the weight of our sin. Knowing our only hope is Him. The more I know of the Word of God, the less I admire me. When anyone sees the overly tired, bald, fat grouchy guy–well that is when they see the real me. But when I seem to rise above that, showing mercy, forgiveness, and grace. Well that is when you are seeing God in me. He is my hope of Glory and only He is.”
I agree wholeheartedly with that. When this tired old woman becomes too quickly frustrated and irritated by the actions of others, well that is me. After 65 years of knowing Him as Lord and Savior. I would have hoped she was fully buried so only His Spirit shines through. Yet, that is not the case. She very much is alive in me. I see her all too often suddenly become irritated by unimportant things. Or snap over foolish things. Letting my feelings hide the wondrous truth of who He is. Every detail of my life is in His hands. Therefore, knowing this, I should never be frustrated. True faith never allows such moments.
My prayer is God shoves me aside whenever He needs to so He can shine through. I do not want to dishonor His name and His Glory. So please Lord, keep shoving me aside whenever I get in the way of Your Glory. One glorious day, standing before Him, I will truly have His heart on fire. Until that moment Lord, do whatever it takes to transform this heart to one that can love as You do. Break me, mold me, change me to thy will.
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is in Him.
Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Click here to go to my page titled How to Be Saved. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.
For Prayer or Comments
If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here
Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned. That is except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Please note: This Post only has quotes from the NKJV Bible except where otherwise indicated
The Secret to Empower your heart to dispel darkness is hidden within these 12 verses in Romans 2. It is God’s light. At first glance you think Paul is merely rounding out his argument for why the Jews are also sinners. They too will face judgment if they deny Christ. True. Paul is continuing to make his case here; but there are so many additional truths embedded here. Certainly, I don’t want any of us to miss the depths of truth hidden here. This is not only true of the Jews who relied on their heritage to be their salvation. However, this is also true for anyone who puts their reliance in anything for their salvation apart from Jesus Christ.
Some think they are saved by having grown up in a Christian home. Yet without a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, in what can they boast? They are in no better position than the sinner who grew up in atheistic home. Both are equally sinners. Others think by joining a church, they are saved. Furthermore, some think baptism saved them. Or maybe they walked an aisle caught up in the crowd with no personal conversion. Some believe they are living a good life and that is enough.
So I think we need to take a deep dive into the truth of these verses. Furthermore, we will review how the gentile believers also become heirs of Abraham. They are grafted into the family of Abraham through adoption by God the Father.
Can You Dispel Darkness by knowing the Law?
But if you call yourself a Jew and rely upon the Law. Romans 2:17a NASB
Most of the Jewish people in that day believed their knowledge of the law and sacrifices were enough. Of this Paul was very aware. After all he is a Jew. He was better versed in Old Testament Scripture than most.
For you have heard of my former manner of life in Judaism, how I used to persecute the church of God beyond measure, and tried to destroy it; and I was advancing in Judaism beyond many of my contemporaries among my countrymen, being more extremely zealous for my ancestral traditions. But when He who had set me apart, even from my mother’s womb, and called me through His grace, was pleased to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately consult with flesh and blood, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who were apostles before me; but I went away to Arabia, and returned once more to Damascus. Galatians 1:13-17 (NASB)
When Paul was called by God he accepted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. He knew the law was not enough. The law he knew. Instead, he was taken away to be trained in the Gospel by Jesus Christ, himself.
For I would have you know, brethren, that the gospel which was preached by me is not according to man. For I neither received it from man, nor was I taught it, but I received it through a revelation of Jesus Christ. Galatians 1:11-12 (NASB)
Knowing the scripture is not enough for us either. Regardless of how much we have been in churches listening and studying scripture. Not enough. Without the working of the Holy Spirit within us we cannot dispel darkness. And that is only possible if we have accepted God’s gift of salvation. What gift? The gospel of salvation by faith due to the redeeming work of Jesus Christ on the Cross.
Or Can you boast in God because of ethnicity?
Most of the Jews in that time believed that they had an automatic ticket into heaven because of their heritage. Some would boast in God as having chosen them as the elected people. It was taught that in Abraham’s Bosom they were given a free pass. Some believe that because they grew up in a family of Pastors, they have an automatic pass into heaven. But Paul continues the argument here.
Ok, since you know the Law and Boast in God, then you are saying: you know His will and distinguish the things that matter, being instructed from the Law. (Indeed you), are confident that you yourself are a guide to people who are blind, a light to those in darkness, a corrector of the foolish, a teacher of the immature, possessing in the Law the embodiment of knowledge and of the truth Romans 2: 17-20 NASB
Is that not the perfect picture of the Pharisees and Sadducees of which Paul had been one. Is it not also the perfect picture of those who study and profess to know God? Or of the moral spiritualists who proclaim they know how to dispel darkness. While teaching their humanistic philosophies on how to transform your life with self-meditation. Placing self and feelings first above all else. To them he asked,
You, therefore, who teach someone else, do you not teach yourself? You who preach that one is not to steal, do you steal? You who say that one is not to commit adultery, do you commit adultery? You who loathe idols, do you rob temples? Romans 2:21-22 NASB
So, do they dispel darkness or create more darkness?
God had instructed the Jewish Nation from the beginning to be lights into the Gentile world around them. Instead, often they incorporated the Pagan worship of their neighbors. So, often we too try to blend in with the world around us. When we must hold true to the word of God ourselves. We become wishy-washy in our faith. You must not be a gay, but if I commit adultery, well that is not so bad. Is not sexual sin, sexual sin? Or we might condemn someone for going to a bar. But then we go to watch a concert where the singer is half naked and gyrating while singing vulgar songs. Or what about that show on Netflix that includes blasphemy against God by the actions and words. But we watch it anyway. But that is entertainment. Right?
So, what was the response here?
You who boast in the Law, through your breaking the Law, do you dishonor God? For “the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you,” Romans 2: 23-24 NASB
In fact, we dispel darkness to block the light when we choose to participate in that which dishonors God.
Can We Dispel Darkness By Cutting It Out Ourselves?
For indeed circumcision is of value if you practice the Law; but if you are a violator of the Law, your circumcision has turned into uncircumcision. So, if the uncircumcised man keeps the requirements of the Law, will his uncircumcision not be regarded as circumcision? And he who is physically uncircumcised, if he keeps the Law, will he not judge you who though having the letter of the Law and circumcision are a violator [ae]of the Law? or he is not a Jew who is one outwardly, nor is circumcision that which is outward in the flesh. Romans 2:25-28 NASB
I do hope to not get too caught up in the weeds here; because there are two lines of thought we need to understand. However, there is one major conclusion from this, when we make it to verse 29. So, please hold in there with me.
First, yes Paul is talking about gentiles being grafted into the line of Abraham. Not all of God’s plans for the future concerning Israel include us. Example being during the tribulation after we have been raptured. At that time, He has a plan to open the hearts and eyes of the Jewish nation.
Just as Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness. Therefore, recognize that it is those who are of faith who are sons of Abraham. The Scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, preached the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, “All the nations will be blessed in you.” So then, those who are of faith are blessed with Abraham, the believer. Galatians 3: 6-9 NASB
Also look at this one
But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing root of the olive tree, do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root that supports you. Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear. For if God did not spare the natural branches, neither will he spare you.
Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God’s kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you too will be cut off. And even they, if they do not continue in their unbelief, will be grafted in, for God has the power to graft them in again. For if you were cut from what is by nature a wild olive tree, and grafted, contrary to nature, into a cultivated olive tree, how much more will these, the natural branches, be grafted back into their own olive tree. Galatians 3:17-24 ESV
How then Do We Dispel Darkness?
Often, we may think some act of attrition is what leads to our being able to fulfill the law. Yet, Paul says that only those who keep the law can be said to be truly circumcised. So, is he saying that some do keep the law? No, not really. He goes on to say.
But he is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the letter; and his praise is not from people, but from God. Romans 2:29 NASB
What does all that mean? Nothing that we can do on the outside can transform our hearts or help us to keep the law. Instead, it is a circumcision of the heart by the Holy Spirit. I cannot change myself.
Moreover, the Lord your God will circumcise your heart and the hearts of your descendants, to love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul, so that you may live. Deuteronomy 30:6
I will give them one heart and put a new spirit within them. And I will remove the heart of stone from their flesh and give them a heart of flesh, so that they may walk in My statutes, and keep My ordinances and do them. Then they will be My people, and I shall be their God. Ezekiel 11:19-20 NASB
Only the Holy Spirit’s Circumcision of our hearts can Transform our heart from darkness to light.
But now apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been revealed, being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets, but it is the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe; for there is no distinction, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus, whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness, because in God’s merciful restraint He let the sins previously committed go unpunished; for the demonstration, that is, of His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus. Romans 3:22-26 NASB
To Dispel the Darkness we must first be Justified by Faith
Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we also have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we celebrate in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also celebrate in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.
For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. For one will hardly die for a righteous person; though perhaps for the good person someone would even dare to die. But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, having now been justified by His blood, we shall be saved from the wrath of God through Him. For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life. And not only this, but we also celebrate in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received the reconciliation. Romans 5:1-11 NASB
Then Guided by the Holy Spirit
the Helper, the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and remind you of all that I said to you. John 14:26 NASB
So, Our only way to live the Law is with the Holy Spirit Transforming us
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh. For the desire of the flesh is against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, in order to keep you from doing whatever you want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: sexual immorality, impurity, indecent behavior, idolatry, witchcraft, hostilities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions, envy, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Now those who belong to Christ Jesus crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let’s follow the Spirit as well. Let’s not become boastful, challenging one another, envying one another. Galatians 5:16-25 (NASB)
That is the only way we can dispel the darkness. We do it by shining forth the light of the gospel of Jesus Christ to a world in need. And the only way we can is by the work of the Holy Spirit within us
This week someone said to me, “You are a good person. Then I thought of the moments of anger, jealousy, the failures along the way. People I have hurt. Then, I said, “No not really. But when you see good, you are seeing the Goodness of God shining through this broken pieces of my heart.” You can place a light inside a beautiful vessel. But the light inside can never dispel any darkness until a piece is broken away. For the light of Christ to shine forth we must have a circumcision of the heart. The Holy Spirit knows exactly where to break our hearts so He might fill us with His Gifts. Our hearts He fills to overflowing with Joy, Patience, love, gentleness, kindness, peace, and goodness. He writes the laws of God on our hearts. Then we have Self-control. He will Guide our every step and one day take us safely home.
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.
Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.
For Prayer or Comments
If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here
Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Please note: This Post only has quotes from the NKJV Bible except where otherwise indicated
Last week we studied chapter two. At that time, I provided an example from life illustrating the absolute justice of God in His condemnation of sinful man. Whether that be those who have not been given the law nor the gospel. However, by nature God gives them a glimpse of light. They either suppress that light or reach toward it. Those who reach toward the slightest glimmer of light, God takes the responsibility to in their lifetime allow them to hear the truth of the gospel. He ascertains; His justice is never tainted by even minuscule sub particles of injustice. Everything is about His absolute perfect Glory in every aspect of His being. Therefore, I do believe we need to spend a bit longer on Romans 2:4-11. Some find these verses confusing. Precisely regarding what Heaven’s requirements are. What is the truth about faith and good deeds for salvation?
At first glance it appears to suggest that good deeds can lead to eternal life. Yet that does not coincide with the entirety of scripture. Therefore, I do believe that we should take a deeper dive into these scriptures. Paul placed this argument with great precision. Indeed, he used a form of writing called a chiasm which I will explain in more detail later. Let us look at the overall purpose of Romans 1:1 to 3:20. These verses are to build the case that no one is righteous. No not one. Until he establishes this, Paul cannot move forward to justification by faith. Then why the remarkable emphasis here on what sounds like a works judgement to get into heaven. But I contend it appears that way only at first glance. Particularly once we consider other verses by Paul, Jesus, James and John.
Heaven’s Requirements: Where do you stand on faith and good Deeds?
Briefly let me tell you what some of the renown pastors think. Many believe that this is a hypothetical because no one can live up to righteousness. But after much thought and study. I tend to agree with John Piper who sees this differently, when considering the other scriptures. So, we will review these scriptures to help us properly use Inductive methods (scripture interpreting scripture). As well as considering exigesis (what it means in Paul’s day). And hermeneutics (what that means for us today). Only then can we rightly divide these verses.
But first let us look at the chiasm and what that is.
A chiasm (also called a chiasmus) is a literary device in which a sequence of ideas is presented and then repeated in reverse order. The result is a “mirror” effect as the ideas are “reflected” back in a passage. Each idea is connected to its “reflection” by a repeated word, often in a related form. The term chiasm comes from the Greek letter chi, which looks like our letter X
This presents a case arguments in order, such as A-B-C-D-X and then reverse order to return to the main conclusion.
Chiastic Argument in Romans 2
A. revelation of the righteous judgment of God, who “will render to each one according to his deeds”
B. eternal life (What will they receive?)
C. to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality (1st group of people)
D. but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness (2nd group of people—evil)
X. indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish (what the second group receive)
D. on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek. (Who is group two that gets tribulation and anguish
C. everyone who works what is good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. (to whom? Group 1)
B. but glory, honor, and peace to (what does group 1 get?)
A. For there is no partiality with God.
So, what was the main reasoning behind this? The righteous judgment of God is perfect with no partiality to be found.
Chapter one of Romans was explaining why the Gentile nations had no excuse. Whereas, Chapter 2 was dealing with the Jewish people. After reading chapter one, the Jews were quite snug as a bug in a rug would be. So, they thought. But truth be told, they relied on heritage, tradition, rituals etc. Example: “Well I am descendant of Abraham. I did take the sacrificial lamb to the priest that time. Never have I failed like those gentiles over there.”
What about in our day? Well, I must be saved. I walked the aisle that time and prayed that prayer. Certainly, I am not as bad as those people over there. After all, I pay my taxes. Do not cheat on my wife. Maybe I look, but never do anything. I do not beat my children. And sometimes I even put money in the offering plate.
To all them, Paul is building the case for “there is none righteous, no not one.” That is of their own merit. So what about this statement? “eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality.” This with the echoing notation of “glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works what is good.
Scripture to Help Guide Us to see Heaven’s Requirements.
Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life. Galatians 6:7-8
Yet, just before this he wrote in Galatians 5:4-5
You have become estranged from Christ, you who attempt to be justified by law; you have fallen from grace. For we through the Spirit eagerly wait for the hope of righteousness by faith.
Or from the book of James:
But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror; for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was. But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does. James 1:22-25
Or again note
But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble! But do you want to know, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered Isaac his son on the altar? Do you see that faith was working together with his works, and by works faith was made perfect? And the Scripture was fulfilled which says, “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” And he was called the friend of God. You see then that a man is justified by works, and not by faith only. James 2: 18-24
And Jesus said:
He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him. John 14: 21
Heaven’s Requirements? Look at these two verse to help us understand Faith vs works
Then I saw a great white throne and Him who sat on it, from whose face the earth and the heaven fled away. And there was found no place for them. And I saw the dead, small and great, standing before God, and books were opened. And another book was opened, which is the Book of Life. And the dead were judged according to their works, by the things which were written in the books. The sea gave up the dead who were in it, and Death and Hades delivered up the dead who were in them. And they were judged, each one according to his works. Then Death and Hades were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And anyone not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire. Revelation 20: 11-15
Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling; for it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure. Philippians 2:12-13 NKJV
So, Now Let’s Try to Land this Plane Concerning Heaven’s Requirements
From today’s verses and the focus verses in Romans 2, I think these three major points have been illustrated.
First Point:
Eternal life is to those who those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality. Whose glory, honor, and immortality? Must we say not our own? I do NOT believe so. We know that it is not self-glory; but, where is it right to seek our own glory, honor, and immortality? When we are doing it to reflect the glory, honor, and immortality of Jesus Christ to a dying world. Also, like a small child desires to win the prize. Not just for himself. But to “make his daddy proud and bring honor to the family name.” Furthermore, Christian hedonism teaches. “God is most glorified when we are most satisfied in Him.” John Piper, Desiring God Ministries.
Am I not awaiting for my crowns in glory? Certainly there are five crowns we are awaiting. Those are:
Clothed in Christ’s own righteousness, one day we will receive rewards for every good work we have accomplished in His name. The Bible clearly lists at least five crowns that will be awarded in heaven.
The first crown is the Victor’s Crown. This crown will be awarded to those who discipline their minds through the study of God’s Word and prayer (1 Corinthians 9:25–27).
The second is the Crown of Rejoicing, which will be given to those who have led others to Christ (1 Thessalonians 2:19).
The third is the Crown of Righteousness, which will be given to those who have a longing for the Lord Jesus—who look for Jesus’ return (2 Timothy 4:8).
The fourth is the Crown of Life, placed upon those who have endured and triumphed over trial and temptation and persecution, even to the point of martyrdom (James 1:12; Revelation 2:10).
The fifth is the Crown of Glory, awarded to the faithful shepherds of the people of God and to Christian leaders (1 Peter 5:4).
David Jeremiah; Royal Rewards: 5 Crowns for Believers, https://www.davidjeremiah.org/age-of-signs/royal-rewards-5-crowns-for-believers?id=4&srsltid=AfmBOoqkcKm2HuhZ7OcdTRU2WfUQAMxC6ScNBzeFwPG_fBZ4DLBHvz82
Out of love, devotion, humble gratitude for all He is; yes, I patiently, willingly, obediently continue in doing good. And yes, through that I seek honor, glory, and immortality to lay at the feet of Jesus, my King. However, feeble my attempts, I seek these things. My salvation cannot be merely; I said a prayer and walked away to do what I please. If I do not fully hunger to be like Him, then, am I His? My broken body, heart, and soul moans for the day I shall see Him face to face. That day that I will finally be like Him. When my heart loves like His does.
Nevertheless, when one turns to the Lord, the veil is taken away. Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 3:16-18
2nd Point on Heaven’s Requirements
Seeking honor, glory, and immortality is not a bad thing. It all depends on perspective. We are to desire hope, joy and peace in our Lord and Savior without settling for mediocre heart responses.
It would seem that Our Lord finds our desires not too strong, but too weak. We are half-hearted creatures, fooling about with drink and sex and ambition when infinite joy is offered us, like an ignorant child who wants to go on making mud pies in a slum because he cannot imagine what is meant by the offer of a holiday at the sea. We are far too easily pleased.
So, yes dear friends, let our desires be to experience the infinite joy found in Jesus Christ Alone. A joy beyond what we could imagine. Steady, abiding joy that undergirds everything that we do in this world. Sustained by the faith and strength given us by the Holy Spirit indwelling us. What an amazing gift of Grace we have!!
3rd point on Heaven’s Requirements.
We can only achieve this through the redeeming work of Jesus Christ. I cannot on my own. It is His work working through me. So, I must cling everyday to the only one True Savior. He, who through the work of the Holy Spirit can keep me. That is faith. Believing against all odds that He will accomplish in me all that He has planned for me. How can I believe that? He has already shown me day by day. What a miracle that amid a chaotic, sin ridden world; I have peace and joy abiding deep within my heart. Oh, how I long for the day when everyone who sees me thinks of Jesus first using words from St. Patrick’s prayer.
St Patrick’s Prayer:
I arise today
Through the strength of heaven;
Light of the sun,
Splendor of fire,
Speed of lightning,
Swiftness of the wind,
Depth of the sea,
Stability of the earth,
Firmness of the rock.
I arise today
Through God’s strength to pilot me;
God’s might to uphold me,
God’s wisdom to guide me,
God’s eye to look before me,
God’s ear to hear me,
God’s word to speak for me,
God’s hand to guard me,
God’s way to lie before me,
God’s shield to protect me,
God’s hosts to save me
Afar and anear,
Alone or in a multitude.
Christ shield me today
Against wounding
Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left,
Christ when I lie down, Christ when I sit down,
Christ in the heart of everyone who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of everyone who speaks of me,
Christ in the eye that sees me,
Christ in the ear that hears me.
I arise today
Through the mighty strength
Of the Lord of creation.
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.
Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.
For Prayer or Comments
If you have a prayer request feel free to email me by clicking here
Furthermore, if you would like to share your story or thoughts, you can comment here
Disclosure of Material Connection: I have not received any compensation for writing this post. Furthermore, I have no material connection to the brands, products, or services that I have mentioned except for my own books. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Please note: This Post only has quotes from the NKJV Bible except where otherwise indicated
How often do we get lost in the light of His Goodness thereby forgetting the Absolute Justice of God? For example. We sin a little bit in some area. His grace and love cover us. And we do not face any punishment. At least that we see. Then overtime, we become a little more daring. We rest so assuredly in the Light of His Goodness, that we become cavalier in our approach to His Justice. He saved me from my sin and clothed me in the righteousness of Christ. Therefore, should I think, “I do not fear the consequences of my sin”? Instead, if I do truly recognize His Goodness is what called me to Him. Would that not mean I owe Him everything, including my heart, my mind, and my desires?
Sometimes, we face illness, suffering or loss and say, “Why God? I don’t deserve this! Haven’t I followed you?”. Ah but the truth is I deserve eternal death, were it not for the Grace and Goodness of God. He gave His only begotten son to die to pay the price for my sin. Nothing I have done could ever meet with His standards of righteousness. How often have I failed Him? Or I failed to show His grace to others? Particularly when I have felt betrayed? So often I have judged others without cause. When I sacrificially give, sometimes I expect gratitude or praise in return. When that happens, am I not doing the right thing for the wrong reason? Do I always do it to bring only God Glory? Or sometimes do I start out doing it for God. Then inside I desire glory for me. Is that not an example of forgetting His Goodness?
The world also ignores the gracious goodness of God. When they blaspheme His name. He does not open the earth to swallow them immediately. Is that not proof of His Goodness. But, alas they do not see it.
The Absolute Justice of God—from the beginning.
When God created the heaven and the earth, He created Adam and Eve. He gave them everything they needed and walked daily in the garden with them. But because love cannot be love without choice, He gave them one command. You may not eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. For the day you do you shall surely die. Spiritually, they did die. But he did not take their physical life immediately from them do to the light of His Goodness toward them. Yet, amid the light of His goodness, He provided a way of salvation. That salvation did cost the life of a substitutionary animal to begin with. This would symbolize the salvation He planned to provide through His Only Begotten Son’s payment for their sin.
Yet, recognizing the light of His goodness, Cain believed he could present to God whatever. In his abuse of God’s goodness, he became angry when God refused his “gift”. It was clear. Most certainly his parents would have told him the horror of death entering the world. But just as we see so many moralists of our day. Cain wanted God to accept his ideals of morals rather than he accept God’s righteous command. The wages of sin are death. No substitute of works would do. Even then God offered him a chance to repent. To do the right thing. He warned him that sin was crouching at the door of his heart, but he did not heed the warning. Therefore, he seethed in his self-pity and anger which grew until he killed his brother. Then, after that, he protested his punishment too great, although God’s mercy allowed him to live.
The Absolute Justice of God Presented
As we turn to chapter 2 of Romans, Paul presents his case meticulously for the Absolute Justice of God. He had just completed the description of mankind’s spiraling downward away from God’s grace in Chapter 1. God had revealed Himself throughout the ages by many means. He presented the depth of His wrath in the Flood. As well as in Sodom and Gomorrah, and while dealing with the rebellious people both in Israel and the world. How often He demonstrated His wrath so they would know He is a Just and Righteous God! There is no unholiness within Him. Meanwhile, He also demonstrated His Long-suffering nature and His Goodness.
Yet, after describing the wickedness of debauchery from sexual sin, Paul turns to the self-righteous hypocrites. Those who declare themselves righteous by their own deeds.
Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. Romans 2:1 NKJV
The absolute Justice of God includes knowledge. If you consider yourself capable of judging another you have declared, you know what is right and wrong. Therefore, when you sin you do so knowingly, willingly, and with foreknowledge. Furthermore, often the self-righteous are proclaiming. “I am not as bad as he or she is; therefore, God is not concerned with my sin.” But God does not categorize sin in degrees as we do. Sin is sin. All sin falls short of the Glory of God. He is perfectly holy and can not pardon any sin and remain perfectly just. Therefore, all sin requires death. That is why, in the light of His Goodness, Jesus died to pay the price of sin for all who believe in Him as their only means of Salvation.
The Absolute Justice of God Based on Truth
But we know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who practice such things. Romans 2:2 NKJV
Abraham Lincoln once said, “”You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but you cannot fool all of the people all the time”
People often live lives of deception, presenting themselves as what they are not. But God sees the heart. He judges with truth. Indeed, He sees my heart with greater clarity than I can. I may think my motive to be pure, even when it clearly is not when examined by His perfect eyes.
But we can be certain His assessment and judgment is perfect.
And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God? Romans 2: 3 NKJV
How is it that we think we can fool God? How many religious people say they know Christ but don’t? Or moralists who claim themselves righteous in their judgement; but, base nothing on God’s word?
The Absolute Justice of God Due to Abusing and Despising His Goodness
Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering, not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance? Romans 2:4 NKJV
Remember, God had displayed His Goodness and long-suffering nature, desiring Cain’s repentance. But alas Cain abused His Goodness demanding more kindness and no punishment. But how often do we do the same?
Instead of Proclaiming His Goodness during times of difficulty, we become angry with God. Why? We know in His wisdom and love, He chooses to allow hardship in our lives. There amid the trials, He reveals the depth of His Love and kindness to us. If only we could see where it all will lead us. And sometimes our greatest witness and testimony is His faithfulness through the trials. Therefore, it may be for the Good of the Kingdom.
Furthermore, despite God demonstrating His Wrath and His Goodness, so many ignore Him. They abuse His kindness. How often do you hear His name used in vain? Sometimes, I wish He would open up the earth and swallow them as He did Korah. But if He did, what about me? How could I be left standing? I should be just so overwhelmed by His Mercy and Kindness to me that I see others through His eyes.
The Absolute Justice of God Does Look Deep within the Heart
But in accordance with your hardness and your impenitent heart you are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God.Romans 2:5
God’s justice will be fair. Each will be accountable to Him for the number of times they have refused to repent. Will there be degrees in Hell? Certainly, I believe so. But best not to go there to find out. Better to repent now instead of building up wrath continuously until then. Those who have been given much, much is required. Jesus spoke this in a Parable
And the Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and sensible steward, whom his master will put in charge of his servants, to give them their rations at the proper time? Blessed is that slave whom his master finds so doing when he comes. Truly I say to you that he will put him in charge of all his possessions. But if that slave says in his heart, ‘My master will take a long time to come,’ and he begins to beat the other slaves, both men and women, and to eat and drink and get drunk; then the master of that slave will come on a day that he does not expect, and at an hour that he does not know, and will cut him in two, and assign him a place with the unbelievers.
And that slave who knew his master’s will and did not get ready or act in accordance with his will, will receive many blows, but the one who did not know it, and committed acts deserving of a beating, will receive only a few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and to whom they entrusted much, of him they will ask all the more. “I have come to cast fire upon the earth; and how I wish it were already kindled! But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is accomplished! Luke 12: 42-50 NASB
Jesus will return in judgment. He saw the sin then. And He wished righteousness could reign immediately. But not before He would take all the wrath, die and be resurrected again. His love overshadowing His hatred of sin until the time is come. In His humanity, He felt the overwhelming sadness that we sometimes feel looking at the world. We groan for His return. But we know He will when the time is right.
The Absolute Justice of God is Fair without Partiality of Persons
who “will render to each one according to his deeds”: eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality but to those who are self-seeking and do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness—indignation and wrath, tribulation and anguish, on every soul of man who does evil, of the Jew first and also of the Greek; but glory, honor, and peace to everyone who works what is good, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For there is no partiality with God. Romans 2:6-11 (NKJV)
So, are we to think our deeds can save us? Absolutely not! But our deeds can be the outward expression of the heart. The phrase “eternal life to those who by patient continuance in doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality” is referring to the “new heart” given to true believers. They are seeking the glory, honor and immortality of God within them. Not that good works leads to salvation; but, can be the manifestation of a truly transformed heart. Only God Himself, who sees the heart, can rightly judge all people. Yet, we should be able to see some fruit of their salvation.
The Absolute Justice of God in the World
Some would say that it is unfair if someone never has the chance to hear the gospel. But God ascertains, that all who are born are given a moment of God awareness. Punishment degree will be based fairly by a just God.
For as many as have sinned without law will also perish without law, and as many as have sinned in the law will be judged by the law (for not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God, but the doers of the law will be justified; for when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves, who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them) in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel. Romans 2: 12-16 NKJV
A real life example
I took this excerpt from a sermon of John McArthur. It presents clearly how God displays to every person a knowledge of Himself. John McArthur went to be with His Lord and Savior this week. But I do believe the testimony he shared here says it so clearly, it must be included in this note.
“The sum of it is this, people: Creation, conduct, conscience, contemplation, what they do, how they deal with the good and bad in their own life and how they deal with it in the lives of others indicates that they know the law of God as written in them. Now, here is the most important thing I’ve said yet. The sum of it is this: If they live up to that much light, and they accept that much light, God will reveal to them the full light of Jesus Christ. I believe that with all my heart. You see, that’s what it says in Acts 17, “He is not far from us if we would feel after Him.” You see? If they would just take what they have and accept that. John 7:17 – mark it down. “If any man wills to do My Father’s Will, he shall know of the teaching.” If the willing heart is there, he’ll know.
We had a living illustration of this in our church the last week, a man by the name of Augustus Marway. Some of you came on Wednesday night and heard his testimony. He is proof positive of this, and I have his testimony, and I’m just going to read a few excerpts from it. This man lived in a village involved in tribal wars. Never put a stitch of clothes on his body until he was 14. In a most aboriginal circumstance in Africa. And this is his own testimony.
‘I resented it whenever strangers passing through the village were invited to our house. At first Mother allowed me and my two brothers to eat with the guest, but I made a pig of myself, stuffing my mouth with handfuls of rice and grabbing another handful before I could even swallow what I had. Mother was ashamed of me. She wouldn’t let me eat with the guests after that. I would just sit and glare at the visitors, making them feel uncomfortable until they would invite me to the table.
From then on, Mother made me sit outside the house until the guests had finished eating. I don’t know what made me so incorrigible. In fact, the whole village asked the question, “What’s the matter with that son of Marway?” they would ask and my poor parents were at their wits’ end.
Even though I loved my mother dearly, I found myself doing terrible things. I can remember seeing her sitting on a bench outside the house and impulsively picking up a stick to throw at her legs. I missed her and struck a little child, hurting him badly.
At times like that, the villagers would join my parents in meting out a punishment. That time, they held me down on the ground by my legs and my arms while they poured a bowl of hot pepper soup down my nose. I nearly choked to death, and for hours afterward my nose burned.’
There’s a new one for you, mom and dad. If Campbell’s only knew. Let me stop in this testimony for a moment. Why did that tribe of aboriginal people who never heard about the true God, who never heard of the gospel, never heard the name Jesus, why did they punish a young boy for throwing a stick and hurting a child? Why? Who told them that was wrong? Why did this young man feel guilty? He told us when he talked to our staff one day, he said, “My heart was broken every day because I loved my mother and I knew she was ashamed of me, but I couldn’t correct my behavior.” Why did he feel that way? Where did he get to feel that guilt? Where did that come from? And why was his mother ashamed of him? Who told her what the standard was?
He goes on: ‘I couldn’t understand myself. After one of those episodes, I would go off into the forest and pound my head against a tree, crying, “What’s wrong with me? I should kill myself.” I hated being the white sheep of the family.
All depends on your perspective.
He says: ‘But one day when I was about twelve years old, a boy returned to our village from the coast where he had been visiting his father. By the way, that was a long, long, long journey by foot. None of us younger ones had ever seen the ocean, so we crowded around him to hear all about it. It was as though he had been to the moon and back. Enjoying the acclaim, he kept us spellbound with his experiences as he recounted the strange things he saw. Among other things, he told us about how some people on the coast met together in a house on Sundays and they sang and stayed a long time.
He couldn’t figure out what they were doing, and finally his curiosity got the better of him, so he asked one of the villagers, “What do you do in there for such a long time?” They told him they were praying to God, the God who created everything, and they said they believed He heard their prayers.
I had never heard anything like this. A God who hears your prayers? It excited me. And I wanted to pray to God, too. I asked the boy to meet me on Sunday, since that’s the day they met in that house, and we would go someplace outside the village and he could tell me how to pray. But he wasn’t interested. Disappointed, I decided the next Sunday to try it by myself.
I went to a hut that my cousin was still building, and with no one around, I tried to pray for the first time. I had never heard anyone pray, but I decided I would just talk to this God like He was my father. I can’t explain what happened but it was an exciting experience. I wanted to know more about this God, but there was no one in our village who knew anything about Him. So for two years, I kept praying by myself on Sundays and hoping that someday someone would come along who could tell me about Him.’
You see? Now, he lived up to the light he had, didn’t he? He followed that light.
‘About this time, the government started building a motor road to prepare for the new invention called the automobile. And along with many of my relatives, we spent two weeks a month for the next two years building the road under terrible working conditions. Then I went back to Sadore, where I had been born, to stay with my cousin. When I reached Sadore, I made the most wonderful discovery of my entire life for in Sadore there was a house where people met to pray to the God who created the world.
How excited I was. I could hardly wait for Sunday. All night I lay on my mat, waiting for that bell that my cousin said would ring and call us to that house. That morning I sat in the back. I listened to a man tell about God for the first time in my life. I found He was far more wonderful than I had ever imagined. The preacher said that God loved the world so much that He sent His only Son, named Jesus, to take away my sins. I wondered if He knew how terrible I was. I wondered if He knew the awful things I had done back in my village. But the preacher said no matter what I had done, God would forgive me and make my heart clean.’
Listen to this next statement.
‘I knew it was all true.’
How did he know that? How did he know that was true? You say, “Well, he went to the counseling room. They gave him a sheet on apologetics.” How did he know that was true? He was following a light God had given him, and that was the next logical step, and his heart was a prepared heart.
‘Hadn’t this God heard my prayers when I talked to Him and asked Him to help me? Hadn’t He sent me here to Sadore when I didn’t even know He had one of His houses here? I gave my heart to God that morning and it was nice to know He had a Son, too. He was really a father, just like I had been praying to. ‘
You know what happened to that man? That man became the most significant man in the nation of Liberia in our day in founding and building churches.
Do you get the picture? You see, the very – listen to this – the very fact that that could occur proves the heathen have the knowledge if they’ll live up to it. God will be fair, no favorites, but each is responsible for the light he has.”
2 McArthur, John, Principles of God’s Judgement Part 4b, https://www.gty.org/sermons/45-20B/principles-of-gods-judgment-part-4b, sermon dated October 18, 1981; accessed 7/19/2025
DO YOU KNOW CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR AND LORD? He is our only Hope in Life and Death! Our Joy is found in Him.
Therefore if you don’t know Jesus Christ as your Savior and Lord: I urge you today. Go to my page titled How to Be Saved by clicking on this link. There is nothing more important than this; because He is the way, the truth and the life. Therefore, I urge you to seek Him today.
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Please note: This Post only has quotes from the KJV Bible except where otherwise indicated
