The Faithfulness of God and the Ineffect of Man's Judgment

Passage: Romans 2:1-3:4

Main Idea: God’s faithfulness is the only reason we have a chance at salvation.

Message Goal: Live judgment-free. For, no one is without sin.

Introduction: Romans 1:18-32

Romans 1:18 is a challenging and frightening text. The Greek text begins with “revelation.” There was an unknown or not widely known secret that is now breaking out. This secret was the wrath of God, which was a long-building punishment—implying that this wrath has been building over time. This wrath is against individuals that restrain or tie down the truth with immorality or unjust [injustice] behavior.

The unrighteous’ suppression of truth is a continual act. It is not subtle or singular. Rather, it continues as a way of forming rebellion. In this way, idolatry always leads to depravity (Romans 1:26-32).

Individuals tend to regard visible things far more valuable and concrete than the invisible attributes of God (Romans 1:20). That is, there must be openness to discern what is not seen through what can be seen. When one possess the willingness to see beyond the naturally visible this is when we God is seen. God is not everything, but God can be seen in everything.

I mention the willingness of one to see, because God gives all the mental ability to perceive His divine nature so that it cannot be not seen (Romans 1:20). In creation, God implemented this natural instinct of divine perception so all men would be without excuse. Well, what actions is there to be no excuse for not giving?

The natural response to one’s discernment of God’s divine attributes and existence is gratitude and the glorification of God. The alternative behavior from not glorifying and showing gratitude is worthlessness and senselessness. The consequence of this behavior is, as we said earlier, depravity or shameful behavior (Romans 1:26-32).