Invitation to Study Romans

[Richie]

(Rom. 16-17) Paul introduces the theme of his letter: the righteousness of God, as revealed in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I am not ashamed of the gospel reveals Paul’s heart. In a sophisticated city like Rome, some might be embarrassed by a gospel centered on a crucified Jewish savior, embraced by the lowest classes of people - but Paul is not ashamed.

For it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes: This is why Paul is not ashamed of a gospel centered on a crucified savior. He knows that the gospel (the good news of Jesus Christ) has inherent power. We do not give it power, we only stop hindering the power of the gospel when we present it effectively.

In particular, Rome thought it knew all about power: “Power is the one thing that Rome boasted of the most. Greece might have its philosophy, but Rome had its power.” (Wiersbe). Despite all their power, the Romans - like all men - were powerless to make themselves righteous before God. The ancient philosopher Seneca called Rome “a cesspool of iniquity” and the ancient writer Juvenal called it a “filthy sewer into which the dregs of the empire flood.”

For in it the righteousness of God is revealed: Simply, the gospel reveals the righteousness of God. This revelation of God’s righteousness comes to those with faith, fulfilling Habakkuk 2:4: The just - that is, the justified ones - shall live by faith.

It is essential to understand exactly what the righteousness of God revealed by the gospel is. It is not speaking of the holy righteousness of God that condemns the guilty sinner, but of the God-kind of righteousness that is given to the sinner who puts their trust in Jesus Christ.

William Barclay explains the meaning of this ancient Greek word dikaioo, which means I justify, and is the root of dikaioun (righteousness): “All verbs in Greek which end in oo . . . always mean to treat, or account or reckon a person as something. If God justifies a sinner, it does not mean that he finds reasons to prove that he was right - far from it. It does not even mean, at this point, that he makes the sinner a good man. It means that God treats the sinner as if he had not been a sinner at all.”

From faith to faith: The idea behind this phrase is probably “by faith from beginning to end.” The NIV translates the phrase from faith to faith as by faith from first to last.

(Rom. 1:18a) The greatest peril facing the human race: the wrath of God.

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven: The idea is simple but sobering - God’s wrath is revealed from heaven against the human race, and the human race deserves the wrath of God.

We sometimes object to the idea of the wrath of God because we equate it with human anger, which is motivated by selfish personal reasons or by a desire for revenge. We must not forget that the wrath of God is completely righteous in character.

(Rom.18b-23) Why the human race is guilty before God: demonstrations of our ungodliness and unrighteousness.

Ungodliness refers to man’s offenses against God; unrighteousness to the sins of man against man.

Who suppress the truth in unrighteousness: Mankind does in fact suppress the truth of God. Every truth revealed to man by God has been fought against, disregarded, and deliberately obscured.

His invisible attributes are clearly seen: God has shown us something of His eternal power and divine nature through creation, by the things that are made. He has given a general revelation that is obvious both in creation and within the mind and heart of man.

The universal character of this revelation and the clarity of it leave man without excuse for rejecting it. “Men cannot charge God with hiding himself from them and thus excuse their irreligion and their immorality.” (Lenski)

Although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God: The problem is not that man did not know God, but that he did know Him - yet we refused to glorify Him as God. Therefore, mankind is without excuse. We didn’t glorify God; we transformed our conception of Him into forms and images more comfortable to our corrupt and darkened hearts.

“Will you kindly notice, that, according to my text, knowledge is of no use if it does not lead to holy practice? “They knew God.” It was no good to them to know God, for “they glorified him not as God.” So my theological friend over there, who knows so much that he can split hairs over doctrines, it does not matter what you think, or what you know, unless it leads you to glorify God, and to be thankful.” (Spurgeon)

Nor were thankful: Man’s simple ingratitude against God is shocking. “I cannot say anything much worse of a man than that he is not thankful to those who have been his benefactors; and when you say that he is not thankful to God, you have said about the worst thing you can say of him.” (Spurgeon)

Professing to be wise, they became fools: Our rejection of God’s general revelation has not made us smarter or better. Instead, it makes mankind futile in their thoughts, and makes our foolish hearts darkened - and we become fools.

(Rom. 24-32) The tragic result of human guilt before God.

Therefore God also gave them up: In His righteous wrath and judgment, God gives man up to the sin our evil hearts desire, allowing us to experience the self-destructive result of sin. This phrase is so important Paul repeats it three times in this passage.

Hosea 4:17 expresses the judgmental aspects of God “giving us up,” leaving us to our own sin: Ephraim is joined to idols, let him alone.

Who exchanged the truth of God for the lie: In every rebellion and disobedience against God we exchange the truth of God for the lie of our own choosing, and set the creature before the Creator.

Paul uses the definite article; it is not a lie, but the lie. The lie is essentially idolatry - which puts us in the place of God; it is the lie you will be like God. (Genesis 3:5)

For this reason God gave them up to vile passions: Paul wrote this letter from the city of Corinth, where every sort of sexual immorality and ritualistic prostitution was practiced freely. The terminology of Rom. 1:24 refers to this combination of sexual immorality and idolatrous worship.

This begins a passage where Paul describes the sin and corruption of the pagan world with an amazing directness - so direct that Spurgeon thought this passage unfit for public reading. “This first chapter of the Epistle to the Romans is a dreadful portion of the Word of God. I should hardly like to read it all through aloud; it is not intended to be so used. Read it at home, and be startled at the awful vices of the Gentile world.” (Spurgeon)

Paul uses homosexuality - both female and male - as an example of God giving them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves. Some say that the Bible nowhere condemns lesbian homosexuality, but the likewise of Rom. 1:27 makes it clear that the sin of homosexuality condemned in Rom. 1:27 is connected to the sin of women mentioned in Rom. 1:26.

Paul doesn’t even use the normal words for men and women here; he uses the words for male and female, using categories that describe sexuality outside of human terms, because the type of sexual sin he describes is outside of human dignity. Paul categorizes the whole section under the idea of vile passions - unhealthy, unholy. Nevertheless, Paul lived in a culture that openly approved of homosexuality. Paul didn’t write this to a culture that agreed with him. He wrote to a culture where homosexuality was accepted as a part of life for both men and women. For some 200 years, men who openly practiced homosexuality, often with young boys, ruled the Roman Empire.

At times, the Roman Empire specifically taxed approved homosexual prostitution and gave boy prostitutes a legal holiday. Legal marriage between same gender couples was recognized, and even some of the emperors married other men. At the very time Paul was writing, Nero was emperor. He took a boy named Sporus and had him castrated, then married him (with a full ceremony), brought him to the palace with a great procession, and made the boy his “wife.” Later, Nero lived with another man, and Nero was the “wife.”

Homosexual practice truly is an abomination in our present culture. Statistics tell us that on average 43% of homosexuals say that they have had 500 or more sexual partners in their lifetime, and only 1% of homosexuals say they have had four or less sexual partners in their lifetime.

According the Unites States Department of Health and Human Services, 77% of homosexuals say they have met sexual partners in a city park; 62% in a homosexual bar, 61% in a theater, 31% in a public restroom. Only 28% of homosexuals said that they had known their partners for at least a week before participating in homosexual sex.

Homosexuals often seem to specialize in anonymous sex with no emotional commitment. At one time, London AIDS clinics defined a woman as promiscuous if she had more than six partners in her lifetime. They gave up trying to apply a workable definition to male homosexuals when it became clear that they saw almost no homosexual men who had less than six sexual partners a year.

Receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due: Paul speaks of a penalty for homosexual conduct; Homosexuality has within itself a penalty. This speaks of the self-destructive nature of sin; it often carries within itself it’s own penalty. Sometimes it is the penalty of disease, which is the consequence of violating nature’s order. Sometimes it is the penalty of rebellion, resulting in spiritual emptiness and all it’s ramifications. The term “gay” is wishful thinking; it sends a message that there is something essentially happy and carefree about the homosexual lifestyle - which there is not.

As further judgment, God gives man over to a debased mind, so that things that are disgraceful and sickening are readily accepted and approved. The word debased (or, reprobate in the KJV) meant originally ‘that which has not stood the test’. It was used of coins that were substandard and therefore rejected. The idea is that since man did not “approve” to know God, men came to have an “unapproved” mind.
Our rebellion against God is not only displayed in our actions, but in our thinking. We are genuinely “spiritually insane” in our rebellion against God.

The list in Rom. 1:29-31 gives concrete examples of the kind of things which are not fitting. Notice how “socially acceptable” sins (such as covetousness, envy and pride) are included right along with “socially unacceptable” sins (such as murder and being unloving).

Covetousness is literally the itch for more.

Whisperers: “Secret detractors; those who, under pretended secrecy, carry about accusations against their neighbours, whether true or false; blasting their reputation by clandestine tittle-tattle.” (Clarke)

Is envy a small sin? Envy put Jesus on the cross. Pilate knew that they had handed Him over because of envy. (Mt. 27:18)

Proud: “They who are continually exalting themselves and depressing others; magnifying themselves at the expense of their neighbors; and wishing all men to receive their sayings as oracles.” (Clarke)

Those who either practice or approve of these things are worthy of death: they are the objects of the wrath of God.

Where does all this violence, immorality, cruelty and degradation come from? Men have abandoned the true knowledge of God, and the state of society is a reflection of God’s judgment upon them for this.

Dear Brother Rjones,

Please don't mind, I haven't read your post yet. I'm busy with exams and there is a lot of pressure in my work, hardly any sleep in my eyes. Please pray that my health will be in a good condition as long as my exams are on.

Kindly give me 2 days time. I will read your post and we will go ahead to Romans 2.

God bless you.

 

[rjones]

Blessings to all,
Here's my post for Romans 2:1-5
God Bless

Romans 2:1-3 An indictment of the morally educated.

Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge: In Rom. 1, Paul pointed out the sin of the most notoriously guilty; he now envisions those who are generally “moral” in their conduct congratulating themselves that they are not like the people Paul described in Rom. 1.

A good example of this mind set is Jesus’ illustration of the Pharisee and the Publican. If we take those figures from Jesus’ parable, now Paul addresses the Pharisee (Lk. 18:10-14).

For in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself: After gaining the agreement of the moralist in condemning the obvious sinner, now Paul turns the same argument upon the moralist himself. This is because at the end of it all, for you who judge practice the same things.

As we judge another person, we point to a standard outside of our self - and that standard condemns everyone, not only the “obvious” sinner. “Since you know the justice of God, as evidenced by the fact that you are judging others, you are without an excuse, because is the very act of judging you have condemned yourself.” (Murray)

For you who judge practice the same things: Notice that the moralist is not condemned for judging others; but for being guilty of the same things that he judges others for. This is something the moral man would object to (“I’m not like them at all!”), but Paul will demonstrate this is the truth.

But we know that the judgement of God is according to truth: This has the idea of “according to the facts of the case.” God will judge (and condemn) the moralist on the basis of the facts. The point is made clear that if the moralist is just as guilty as the obvious sinner how will they escape the judgment of God?

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?

You is emphatic in [do you think] you will escape the judgment of God? Paul is bearing down, letting his reader know that he is no exception to this principle. Paul gets right to the heart of his readers. “Our exhortations should be as forked arrows to stick in men’s hearts; and not wound only, as other arrows.” (Trapp)

Lenski on the moralist: “Paul’s object is far greater than merely to convict also them of unrighteousness. He robs them, absolutely must rob them, of their moralism and their moralizing because they regard this as the way of escape from God’s wrath.”

Romans 2:4-5 God’s judgment against the moralist is announced.

Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering: Paul points out that the moralist himself is presuming upon the goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering of God, which all should have brought the moralist into a humble repentance instead of an attitude of superiority.

Goodness may be considered God’s kindness to us in regard to our past sin. He has been good to us because He has not judged us yet though we deserve it.

Forbearance may be considered God’s kindness to us in regard to our present sin. This very day - indeed, this very hour - we have fallen short of His glory, yet He holds back His judgment against us.

Longsuffering may be considered God’s kindness to us in regard to our future sin. He knows that we will sin tomorrow and the next day, yet He holds back His judgment against us.

Considering all this, it is no surprise that Paul describes these three aspects of God’s kindness to us as riches. The riches of God’s mercy is measured by four considerations:

His greatness - to wrong a great man is a great wrong and God is greatest of all - yet He shows mercy.

His omniscience - if someone knew all our sin, would they show mercy? Yet God shows mercy.

His power - sometimes wrongs are not settled because they are out of our power, yet God is able to settle every wrong against Him - yet He is rich in mercy.

The object of His mercy, mere man - would we show mercy to an ant? Yet God is rich in mercy.

Men often see the forbearance and longsuffering of God as a weakness in God; they say things like “If there is a God in heaven, let Him strike me dead!” When it doesn’t happen, they will say, “See, I told you there was no God.” Men misinterpret God’s forbearance and longsuffering as His approval, and they refuse to repent.

“It seems to me that every morning when a man wakes up still impenitent, and finds himself out of hell, the sunlight seems to say, ‘I shine on thee yet another day, as that in this day thou mayest repent.’ When your bed receives you at night I think it seems to say, ‘I will give you another night’s rest, that you may live to turn from your sins and trust in Jesus.’ Every mouthful of bread that comes to the table says, ‘I have to support your body that still you may have space for repentance.’ Every time you open the Bible the pages say, ‘We speak with you that you may repent.’ Every time you hear a sermon, if it be such a sermon as God would have us preach, it pleads with you to turn unto the Lord and live.” (Spurgeon)

Not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance: Many people misunderstand the goodness of God towards the wicked. They don’t understand the entire reason for it is to lead them to repentance.

Men should see the goodness of God and understand:

God has been better to them than they deserve.
God has shown them kindness when they have ignored Him.
God has shown them kindness when they have mocked Him.
God is not a cruel master and they may safely surrender to Him.
God is perfectly willing to forgive them.
God should be served out of simple gratitude.

Are you waiting for God to drive you to repentance? He doesn’t work like that; God leads you to repentance. “Notice, dear friends, that the Lord does not drive you to repentance. Cain was driven away, as a fugitive and a vagabond, when he had killed his righteous brother Abel; Judas went and hanged himself, being driven by an anguish of remorse because of what he had done in betraying his Lord; but the sweetest and best repentance is that which comes, not by driving, but by drawing: ‘The goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance.’” (Spurgeon)

You are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God: Because of this presumption on God’s graciousness, Paul can rightly say that the moralist is treasuring up . . . wrath in the day of wrath.

The moralist thinks he is treasuring up merit with God as he condemns the “sinners” around him; actually, he only treasures up the wrath of God. “Just as men add to their treasure of wealth, so dost thou add to the treasures of punishment.” (Poole)
As men treasure up the wrath of God against them, what holds back the flood of wrath? God Himself! He holds it back out of His forbearance and longsuffering! “The figure is that of a load that God bears, which men heap up more and more, making heavier and heavier. The wonder of it all is that God holds any of it up even for a day; yet he holds up all its weight and does not let it crash down on the sinner’s head.” (Lenski)

In the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God: This explains part of the reason for God’s ultimate judgment is also shown. In the first coming of Jesus, the loving character of God was revealed with greatest emphasis; at the second coming of Jesus, the righteous judgment of God will be revealed most clearly.

 

[rjones]

Dear Brother Richie,
I was posting the same time as you. I'll await for your next post.
Heavenly Father, I lift up the needs of my Brother in Christ and ask that he be filled with Your Holy Spirit. Empower him to overcome the rigorous demands he is currently facing at college. And we are quick to give You all the praise, all the honor and all the glory. In Jesus name, AMEN.

 

[Richie]

(Rom. 16-17) Paul introduces the theme of his letter: the righteousness of God, as revealed in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I am not ashamed of the gospel reveals Paul’s heart. In a sophisticated city like Rome, some might be embarrassed by a gospel centered on a crucified Jewish savior, embraced by the lowest classes of people - but Paul is not ashamed.

For it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes: This is why Paul is not ashamed of a gospel centered on a crucified savior. He knows that the gospel (the good news of Jesus Christ) has inherent power. We do not give it power, we only stop hindering the power of the gospel when we present it effectively.

In particular, Rome thought it knew all about power: “Power is the one thing that Rome boasted of the most. Greece might have its philosophy, but Rome had its power.” (Wiersbe). Despite all their power, the Romans - like all men - were powerless to make themselves righteous before God. The ancient philosopher Seneca called Rome “a cesspool of iniquity” and the ancient writer Juvenal called it a “filthy sewer into which the dregs of the empire flood.”

For in it the righteousness of God is revealed: Simply, the gospel reveals the righteousness of God. This revelation of God’s righteousness comes to those with faith, fulfilling Habakkuk 2:4: The just - that is, the justified ones - shall live by faith.

It is essential to understand exactly what the righteousness of God revealed by the gospel is. It is not speaking of the holy righteousness of God that condemns the guilty sinner, but of the God-kind of righteousness that is given to the sinner who puts their trust in Jesus Christ.

William Barclay explains the meaning of this ancient Greek word dikaioo, which means I justify, and is the root of dikaioun (righteousness): “All verbs in Greek which end in oo . . . always mean to treat, or account or reckon a person as something. If God justifies a sinner, it does not mean that he finds reasons to prove that he was right - far from it. It does not even mean, at this point, that he makes the sinner a good man. It means that God treats the sinner as if he had not been a sinner at all.”

From faith to faith: The idea behind this phrase is probably “by faith from beginning to end.” The NIV translates the phrase from faith to faith as by faith from first to last.

(Rom. 1:18a) The greatest peril facing the human race: the wrath of God.

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven: The idea is simple but sobering - God’s wrath is revealed from heaven against the human race, and the human race deserves the wrath of God.

We sometimes object to the idea of the wrath of God because we equate it with human anger, which is motivated by selfish personal reasons or by a desire for revenge. We must not forget that the wrath of God is completely righteous in character.

(Rom.18b-23) Why the human race is guilty before God: demonstrations of our ungodliness and unrighteousness.

Ungodliness refers to man’s offenses against God; unrighteousness to the sins of man against man.

Who suppress the truth in unrighteousness: Mankind does in fact suppress the truth of God. Every truth revealed to man by God has been fought against, disregarded, and deliberately obscured.

His invisible attributes are clearly seen: God has shown us something of His eternal power and divine nature through creation, by the things that are made. He has given a general revelation that is obvious both in creation and within the mind and heart of man.

The universal character of this revelation and the clarity of it leave man without excuse for rejecting it. “Men cannot charge God with hiding himself from them and thus excuse their irreligion and their immorality.” (Lenski)

Although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God: The problem is not that man did not know God, but that he did know Him - yet we refused to glorify Him as God. Therefore, mankind is without excuse. We didn’t glorify God; we transformed our conception of Him into forms and images more comfortable to our corrupt and darkened hearts.

“Will you kindly notice, that, according to my text, knowledge is of no use if it does not lead to holy practice? “They knew God.” It was no good to them to know God, for “they glorified him not as God.” So my theological friend over there, who knows so much that he can split hairs over doctrines, it does not matter what you think, or what you know, unless it leads you to glorify God, and to be thankful.” (Spurgeon)

Nor were thankful: Man’s simple ingratitude against God is shocking. “I cannot say anything much worse of a man than that he is not thankful to those who have been his benefactors; and when you say that he is not thankful to God, you have said about the worst thing you can say of him.” (Spurgeon)

Professing to be wise, they became fools: Our rejection of God’s general revelation has not made us smarter or better. Instead, it makes mankind futile in their thoughts, and makes our foolish hearts darkened - and we become fools.

(Rom. 24-32) The tragic result of human guilt before God.

Therefore God also gave them up: In His righteous wrath and judgment, God gives man up to the sin our evil hearts desire, allowing us to experience the self-destructive result of sin. This phrase is so important Paul repeats it three times in this passage.

Hosea 4:17 expresses the judgmental aspects of God “giving us up,” leaving us to our own sin: Ephraim is joined to idols, let him alone.

Who exchanged the truth of God for the lie: In every rebellion and disobedience against God we exchange the truth of God for the lie of our own choosing, and set the creature before the Creator.

Paul uses the definite article; it is not a lie, but the lie. The lie is essentially idolatry - which puts us in the place of God; it is the lie you will be like God. (Genesis 3:5)

For this reason God gave them up to vile passions: Paul wrote this letter from the city of Corinth, where every sort of sexual immorality and ritualistic prostitution was practiced freely. The terminology of Rom. 1:24 refers to this combination of sexual immorality and idolatrous worship.

This begins a passage where Paul describes the sin and corruption of the pagan world with an amazing directness - so direct that Spurgeon thought this passage unfit for public reading. “This first chapter of the Epistle to the Romans is a dreadful portion of the Word of God. I should hardly like to read it all through aloud; it is not intended to be so used. Read it at home, and be startled at the awful vices of the Gentile world.” (Spurgeon)

Paul uses homosexuality - both female and male - as an example of God giving them up to uncleanness, in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves. Some say that the Bible nowhere condemns lesbian homosexuality, but the likewise of Rom. 1:27 makes it clear that the sin of homosexuality condemned in Rom. 1:27 is connected to the sin of women mentioned in Rom. 1:26.

Paul doesn’t even use the normal words for men and women here; he uses the words for male and female, using categories that describe sexuality outside of human terms, because the type of sexual sin he describes is outside of human dignity. Paul categorizes the whole section under the idea of vile passions - unhealthy, unholy. Nevertheless, Paul lived in a culture that openly approved of homosexuality. Paul didn’t write this to a culture that agreed with him. He wrote to a culture where homosexuality was accepted as a part of life for both men and women. For some 200 years, men who openly practiced homosexuality, often with young boys, ruled the Roman Empire.

At times, the Roman Empire specifically taxed approved homosexual prostitution and gave boy prostitutes a legal holiday. Legal marriage between same gender couples was recognized, and even some of the emperors married other men. At the very time Paul was writing, Nero was emperor. He took a boy named Sporus and had him castrated, then married him (with a full ceremony), brought him to the palace with a great procession, and made the boy his “wife.” Later, Nero lived with another man, and Nero was the “wife.”

Homosexual practice truly is an abomination in our present culture. Statistics tell us that on average 43% of homosexuals say that they have had 500 or more sexual partners in their lifetime, and only 1% of homosexuals say they have had four or less sexual partners in their lifetime.

According the Unites States Department of Health and Human Services, 77% of homosexuals say they have met sexual partners in a city park; 62% in a homosexual bar, 61% in a theater, 31% in a public restroom. Only 28% of homosexuals said that they had known their partners for at least a week before participating in homosexual sex.

Homosexuals often seem to specialize in anonymous sex with no emotional commitment. At one time, London AIDS clinics defined a woman as promiscuous if she had more than six partners in her lifetime. They gave up trying to apply a workable definition to male homosexuals when it became clear that they saw almost no homosexual men who had less than six sexual partners a year.

Receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due: Paul speaks of a penalty for homosexual conduct; Homosexuality has within itself a penalty. This speaks of the self-destructive nature of sin; it often carries within itself it’s own penalty. Sometimes it is the penalty of disease, which is the consequence of violating nature’s order. Sometimes it is the penalty of rebellion, resulting in spiritual emptiness and all it’s ramifications. The term “gay” is wishful thinking; it sends a message that there is something essentially happy and carefree about the homosexual lifestyle - which there is not.

As further judgment, God gives man over to a debased mind, so that things that are disgraceful and sickening are readily accepted and approved. The word debased (or, reprobate in the KJV) meant originally ‘that which has not stood the test’. It was used of coins that were substandard and therefore rejected. The idea is that since man did not “approve” to know God, men came to have an “unapproved” mind.
Our rebellion against God is not only displayed in our actions, but in our thinking. We are genuinely “spiritually insane” in our rebellion against God.

The list in Rom. 1:29-31 gives concrete examples of the kind of things which are not fitting. Notice how “socially acceptable” sins (such as covetousness, envy and pride) are included right along with “socially unacceptable” sins (such as murder and being unloving).

Covetousness is literally the itch for more.

Whisperers: “Secret detractors; those who, under pretended secrecy, carry about accusations against their neighbours, whether true or false; blasting their reputation by clandestine tittle-tattle.” (Clarke)

Is envy a small sin? Envy put Jesus on the cross. Pilate knew that they had handed Him over because of envy. (Mt. 27:18)

Proud: “They who are continually exalting themselves and depressing others; magnifying themselves at the expense of their neighbors; and wishing all men to receive their sayings as oracles.” (Clarke)

Those who either practice or approve of these things are worthy of death: they are the objects of the wrath of God.

Where does all this violence, immorality, cruelty and degradation come from? Men have abandoned the true knowledge of God, and the state of society is a reflection of God’s judgment upon them for this.

Dear Brother Rjones,

It is a real honor to study with you. I've learnt many things from your post - many real life facts. As a 20 year old young man, I have the desire to do God's will and preach the Gospel.

I would like to give a few references to your post.

I am not ashamed of the gospel reveals Paul’s heart. In a sophisticated city like Rome, some might be embarrassed by a gospel centered on a crucified Jewish savior, embraced by the lowest classes of people - but Paul is not ashamed.

For it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes: This is why Paul is not ashamed of a gospel centered on a crucified savior. He knows that the gospel (the good news of Jesus Christ) has inherent power. We do not give it power, we only stop hindering the power of the gospel when we present it effectively.

In particular, Rome thought it knew all about power: “Power is the one thing that Rome boasted of the most. Greece might have its philosophy, but Rome had its power.” (Wiersbe). Despite all their power, the Romans - like all men - were powerless to make themselves righteous before God. The ancient philosopher Seneca called Rome “a cesspool of iniquity” and the ancient writer Juvenal called it a “filthy sewer into which the dregs of the empire flood.”

When I read this, you reminded me a lot of the movie called "The Robe." This movie is a true story. It is about a man who crucified Jesus Christ on the cross. After few years, he became a Christian and he left Rome (The end of the movie).

It is a wonderful movie, I hope you get to see it. It is about 2 hours duration.

Now coming to Romans 1:18-32, I agree with you about your reference to homosexuality. Even though it is not pleasant to discuss, let us not hide the truth because it is all happening today.

But I had a different approach to this context, I hope you have read it.

Whisperers: “Secret detractors; those who, under pretended secrecy, carry about accusations against their neighbours, whether true or false; blasting their reputation by clandestine tittle-tattle.” (Clarke)

I would like to give a refer this part to this thread (I feel it is an appropriate reference up to some extent):

http://www.talkjesus.com/bible-study-hall/18474-truth-love.html

and also

http://www.talkjesus.com/bible-study-hall/18594-evil-gossip.html (I don't remember if I shared this with you or not).

Is envy a small sin? Envy put Jesus on the cross. Pilate knew that they had handed Him over because of envy. (Mt. 27:18)

Yes, it is true indeed. In fact, it is envy that has divided men into 200 nations. I always say this, "God made man. Man made nations."

The reason why I hinted on this point is, I think it is futile to have national pride within ourselves and envy for other nations, because when we stand before God on the last day, He is not going to ask us which nation are we from?, He will ask, "What did you do for Me?" If we really love our nation, we should do His will, preach the Gospel and help the poor (That is all what God wants us to do). I just don't know what you will think of this, but I hope you don't misunderstand this part.

This is all I want to say.

God bless you.

 

[Richie]

Blessings to all,
Here's my post for Romans 2:1-5
God Bless

Romans 2:1-3 An indictment of the morally educated.

Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge: In Rom. 1, Paul pointed out the sin of the most notoriously guilty; he now envisions those who are generally “moral” in their conduct congratulating themselves that they are not like the people Paul described in Rom. 1.

A good example of this mind set is Jesus’ illustration of the Pharisee and the Publican. If we take those figures from Jesus’ parable, now Paul addresses the Pharisee (Lk. 18:10-14).

For in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself: After gaining the agreement of the moralist in condemning the obvious sinner, now Paul turns the same argument upon the moralist himself. This is because at the end of it all, for you who judge practice the same things.

As we judge another person, we point to a standard outside of our self - and that standard condemns everyone, not only the “obvious” sinner. “Since you know the justice of God, as evidenced by the fact that you are judging others, you are without an excuse, because is the very act of judging you have condemned yourself.” (Murray)

For you who judge practice the same things: Notice that the moralist is not condemned for judging others; but for being guilty of the same things that he judges others for. This is something the moral man would object to (“I’m not like them at all!”), but Paul will demonstrate this is the truth.

But we know that the judgement of God is according to truth: This has the idea of “according to the facts of the case.” God will judge (and condemn) the moralist on the basis of the facts. The point is made clear that if the moralist is just as guilty as the obvious sinner how will they escape the judgment of God?

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?

You is emphatic in [do you think] you will escape the judgment of God? Paul is bearing down, letting his reader know that he is no exception to this principle. Paul gets right to the heart of his readers. “Our exhortations should be as forked arrows to stick in men’s hearts; and not wound only, as other arrows.” (Trapp)

Lenski on the moralist: “Paul’s object is far greater than merely to convict also them of unrighteousness. He robs them, absolutely must rob them, of their moralism and their moralizing because they regard this as the way of escape from God’s wrath.”

Romans 2:4-5 God’s judgment against the moralist is announced.

Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering: Paul points out that the moralist himself is presuming upon the goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering of God, which all should have brought the moralist into a humble repentance instead of an attitude of superiority.

Goodness may be considered God’s kindness to us in regard to our past sin. He has been good to us because He has not judged us yet though we deserve it.

Forbearance may be considered God’s kindness to us in regard to our present sin. This very day - indeed, this very hour - we have fallen short of His glory, yet He holds back His judgment against us.

Longsuffering may be considered God’s kindness to us in regard to our future sin. He knows that we will sin tomorrow and the next day, yet He holds back His judgment against us.

Considering all this, it is no surprise that Paul describes these three aspects of God’s kindness to us as riches. The riches of God’s mercy is measured by four considerations:

His greatness - to wrong a great man is a great wrong and God is greatest of all - yet He shows mercy.

His omniscience - if someone knew all our sin, would they show mercy? Yet God shows mercy.

His power - sometimes wrongs are not settled because they are out of our power, yet God is able to settle every wrong against Him - yet He is rich in mercy.

The object of His mercy, mere man - would we show mercy to an ant? Yet God is rich in mercy.

Men often see the forbearance and longsuffering of God as a weakness in God; they say things like “If there is a God in heaven, let Him strike me dead!” When it doesn’t happen, they will say, “See, I told you there was no God.” Men misinterpret God’s forbearance and longsuffering as His approval, and they refuse to repent.

“It seems to me that every morning when a man wakes up still impenitent, and finds himself out of hell, the sunlight seems to say, ‘I shine on thee yet another day, as that in this day thou mayest repent.’ When your bed receives you at night I think it seems to say, ‘I will give you another night’s rest, that you may live to turn from your sins and trust in Jesus.’ Every mouthful of bread that comes to the table says, ‘I have to support your body that still you may have space for repentance.’ Every time you open the Bible the pages say, ‘We speak with you that you may repent.’ Every time you hear a sermon, if it be such a sermon as God would have us preach, it pleads with you to turn unto the Lord and live.” (Spurgeon)

Not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance: Many people misunderstand the goodness of God towards the wicked. They don’t understand the entire reason for it is to lead them to repentance.

Men should see the goodness of God and understand:

God has been better to them than they deserve.
God has shown them kindness when they have ignored Him.
God has shown them kindness when they have mocked Him.
God is not a cruel master and they may safely surrender to Him.
God is perfectly willing to forgive them.
God should be served out of simple gratitude.

Are you waiting for God to drive you to repentance? He doesn’t work like that; God leads you to repentance. “Notice, dear friends, that the Lord does not drive you to repentance. Cain was driven away, as a fugitive and a vagabond, when he had killed his righteous brother Abel; Judas went and hanged himself, being driven by an anguish of remorse because of what he had done in betraying his Lord; but the sweetest and best repentance is that which comes, not by driving, but by drawing: ‘The goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance.’” (Spurgeon)

You are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God: Because of this presumption on God’s graciousness, Paul can rightly say that the moralist is treasuring up . . . wrath in the day of wrath.

The moralist thinks he is treasuring up merit with God as he condemns the “sinners” around him; actually, he only treasures up the wrath of God. “Just as men add to their treasure of wealth, so dost thou add to the treasures of punishment.” (Poole)
As men treasure up the wrath of God against them, what holds back the flood of wrath? God Himself! He holds it back out of His forbearance and longsuffering! “The figure is that of a load that God bears, which men heap up more and more, making heavier and heavier. The wonder of it all is that God holds any of it up even for a day; yet he holds up all its weight and does not let it crash down on the sinner’s head.” (Lenski)

In the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God: This explains part of the reason for God’s ultimate judgment is also shown. In the first coming of Jesus, the loving character of God was revealed with greatest emphasis; at the second coming of Jesus, the righteous judgment of God will be revealed most clearly.

Dear Brother Rjones,

Could you kindly give me some time to reply to this post, if you don't mind. I'm sorry for the delay.

God bless you.

 

[Richie]

Blessings to all,
Here's my post for Romans 2:1-5
God Bless

Romans 2:1-3 An indictment of the morally educated.

Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge: In Rom. 1, Paul pointed out the sin of the most notoriously guilty; he now envisions those who are generally “moral” in their conduct congratulating themselves that they are not like the people Paul described in Rom. 1.

A good example of this mind set is Jesus’ illustration of the Pharisee and the Publican. If we take those figures from Jesus’ parable, now Paul addresses the Pharisee (Lk. 18:10-14).

For in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself: After gaining the agreement of the moralist in condemning the obvious sinner, now Paul turns the same argument upon the moralist himself. This is because at the end of it all, for you who judge practice the same things.

As we judge another person, we point to a standard outside of our self - and that standard condemns everyone, not only the “obvious” sinner. “Since you know the justice of God, as evidenced by the fact that you are judging others, you are without an excuse, because is the very act of judging you have condemned yourself.” (Murray)

For you who judge practice the same things: Notice that the moralist is not condemned for judging others; but for being guilty of the same things that he judges others for. This is something the moral man would object to (“I’m not like them at all!”), but Paul will demonstrate this is the truth.

But we know that the judgement of God is according to truth: This has the idea of “according to the facts of the case.” God will judge (and condemn) the moralist on the basis of the facts. The point is made clear that if the moralist is just as guilty as the obvious sinner how will they escape the judgment of God?

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?

You is emphatic in [do you think] you will escape the judgment of God? Paul is bearing down, letting his reader know that he is no exception to this principle. Paul gets right to the heart of his readers. “Our exhortations should be as forked arrows to stick in men’s hearts; and not wound only, as other arrows.” (Trapp)

Lenski on the moralist: “Paul’s object is far greater than merely to convict also them of unrighteousness. He robs them, absolutely must rob them, of their moralism and their moralizing because they regard this as the way of escape from God’s wrath.”

Romans 2:4-5 God’s judgment against the moralist is announced.

Or do you despise the riches of His goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering: Paul points out that the moralist himself is presuming upon the goodness, forbearance, and longsuffering of God, which all should have brought the moralist into a humble repentance instead of an attitude of superiority.

Goodness may be considered God’s kindness to us in regard to our past sin. He has been good to us because He has not judged us yet though we deserve it.

Forbearance may be considered God’s kindness to us in regard to our present sin. This very day - indeed, this very hour - we have fallen short of His glory, yet He holds back His judgment against us.

Longsuffering may be considered God’s kindness to us in regard to our future sin. He knows that we will sin tomorrow and the next day, yet He holds back His judgment against us.

Considering all this, it is no surprise that Paul describes these three aspects of God’s kindness to us as riches. The riches of God’s mercy is measured by four considerations:

His greatness - to wrong a great man is a great wrong and God is greatest of all - yet He shows mercy.

His omniscience - if someone knew all our sin, would they show mercy? Yet God shows mercy.

His power - sometimes wrongs are not settled because they are out of our power, yet God is able to settle every wrong against Him - yet He is rich in mercy.

The object of His mercy, mere man - would we show mercy to an ant? Yet God is rich in mercy.

Men often see the forbearance and longsuffering of God as a weakness in God; they say things like “If there is a God in heaven, let Him strike me dead!” When it doesn’t happen, they will say, “See, I told you there was no God.” Men misinterpret God’s forbearance and longsuffering as His approval, and they refuse to repent.

“It seems to me that every morning when a man wakes up still impenitent, and finds himself out of hell, the sunlight seems to say, ‘I shine on thee yet another day, as that in this day thou mayest repent.’ When your bed receives you at night I think it seems to say, ‘I will give you another night’s rest, that you may live to turn from your sins and trust in Jesus.’ Every mouthful of bread that comes to the table says, ‘I have to support your body that still you may have space for repentance.’ Every time you open the Bible the pages say, ‘We speak with you that you may repent.’ Every time you hear a sermon, if it be such a sermon as God would have us preach, it pleads with you to turn unto the Lord and live.” (Spurgeon)

Not knowing that the goodness of God leads you to repentance: Many people misunderstand the goodness of God towards the wicked. They don’t understand the entire reason for it is to lead them to repentance.

Men should see the goodness of God and understand:

God has been better to them than they deserve.
God has shown them kindness when they have ignored Him.
God has shown them kindness when they have mocked Him.
God is not a cruel master and they may safely surrender to Him.
God is perfectly willing to forgive them.
God should be served out of simple gratitude.

Are you waiting for God to drive you to repentance? He doesn’t work like that; God leads you to repentance. “Notice, dear friends, that the Lord does not drive you to repentance. Cain was driven away, as a fugitive and a vagabond, when he had killed his righteous brother Abel; Judas went and hanged himself, being driven by an anguish of remorse because of what he had done in betraying his Lord; but the sweetest and best repentance is that which comes, not by driving, but by drawing: ‘The goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance.’” (Spurgeon)

You are treasuring up for yourself wrath in the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God: Because of this presumption on God’s graciousness, Paul can rightly say that the moralist is treasuring up . . . wrath in the day of wrath.

The moralist thinks he is treasuring up merit with God as he condemns the “sinners” around him; actually, he only treasures up the wrath of God. “Just as men add to their treasure of wealth, so dost thou add to the treasures of punishment.” (Poole)
As men treasure up the wrath of God against them, what holds back the flood of wrath? God Himself! He holds it back out of His forbearance and longsuffering! “The figure is that of a load that God bears, which men heap up more and more, making heavier and heavier. The wonder of it all is that God holds any of it up even for a day; yet he holds up all its weight and does not let it crash down on the sinner’s head.” (Lenski)

In the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God: This explains part of the reason for God’s ultimate judgment is also shown. In the first coming of Jesus, the loving character of God was revealed with greatest emphasis; at the second coming of Jesus, the righteous judgment of God will be revealed most clearly.

Dear Brother Rjones,

I'm glad to be back to study with you. I'm sorry for the delay. I'll try my best to be regular to this study this week. Right now we are having holidays to prepare for exams. My exams will begin from April 1st and end on April 16th. That will be the end of the academic year and I'll be free for 1 month.

Thank you so much for your wonderful post. I enjoyed reading your post. This is what I want to share with you:

Romans 2:1-3:

Verse 1: You may be saying, “What terrible people you have been talking about!” 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 do these very same things.

Verse 2: And we know that God, in His justice, will punish anyone who does such things.

Verse 3: Do you think that God will judge and condemn others for doing them and not judge you when you do them, too?

In one way, this context can be compared to the Pharisees. In another way this context can be compared to Human Nature.

First let us see about the Pharisees, with a short reference:

John 8:3-9:

Verse 3: And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst,

Verse 4: they said unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act.

Verse 5: Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou?

Verse 6: This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not.

Verse 7: So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.

Verse 8: And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.

Verse 9: And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.

From this portion, I believe that the real Character of the Pharisees and scribes will be exposed.

First of all, they brought the woman caught in adultery to Jesus (John 8:3). Fine! Now what is interesting to me is that the Pharisees forgot to bring the man who committed adultery with this woman. Now, Why did they do that? Why is the man missing in the picture. The reason is simple: The man should be either a Pharisee or a Scribe. That is why the man was not brought to Jesus.

This proves, this fact what Paul the Apostle wrote:

Romans 2:1: ..........When you say they are wicked and should be punished, you are condemning yourself, for you do these very same things.

That is why Jesus said:

John 8:7: ..........He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.

Now look, they were convicted by their consciences (John 8:9). The Holy Spirit proved them Guilty in their hearts, but still they would not acknowledge the fact that they are sinners.

We shall have a short bible study on John 8:3-9 in a different thread, later; because there is a lot more to this.

Now let us focus the reference of Romans 2:1-3 on Human Nature.

Romans 2:1: You may be saying, “What terrible people you have been talking about!” But you are just as bad, and you have no excuse!.......

This is Human Nature. It is so easy to point out and look down at others, point out at their faults, but it is so hard to look at our faults and accept them. We talk bad about other people many times and we don't realize that we do the very same things what were criticizing other people for. That is why Jesus said:

Luke 6:41: And why worry about a speck in your brother’s eye when you have a log in your own?

Sometimes, people invite spiritual down fall, because they get thoughts like, "I'm better than many people, I'm not a drunkard or a drug addict, I never smoke cigarettes, etc." They invite self righteousness. Ultimately leads to spiritual downfall.

Now let me apply it to myself. Allow me to give you my short and humble testimony of what God did for me:

To tell the truth, I never tasted Alcohol. Neither did I smoke a cigarette in my life. But if I'm proud of it, it will lead to my downfall. But if I rely on His grace and say, "I am what I am because of God's grace and mercy." I will be only inviting God to take care of all of me. To tell the truth, if God did not change me, my life would have been ruined totally, because I was demon possessed. Thank God, He delivered me.

Romans 2:2-3:

Verse 2: And we know that God, in His justice, will punish anyone who does such things.

Verse 3: Do you think that God will judge and condemn others for doing them and not judge you when you do them, too?

Many times we talk about God punishing other people for what they do, but we fail to bother about what we do and what will God do to us. It all happens when we don't fear God.

Romans 2:4-5:

Verse 4: Don’t you realize how kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Or don’t you care? Can’t you see how kind he has been in giving you time to turn from your sin?

Verse 5: But no, you won’t listen. So you are storing up terrible punishment for yourself because of your stubbornness in refusing to turn from your sin. For there is going to come a day of judgment when God, the just judge of all the world,

Despite all what say about others, not at all bothered about ourselves, our failures, still God is giving a chance to repent, but unfortunately many people still don't accept their faults, neither do they acknowledge the fact that they are sinners, guilty before God. Still they reject God's mercy and loving kindness. It all happens because of:

1) Stubbornness (Just like how Paul the Apostle mentioned)
2) They are blindfolded spiritually.

This is what I wanted to share with you.

God bless you.

 

[rjones]

Dear Brother Richie and to all who are studying with us,
Blessings to you and your family this Resurrection Sunday.
Here's what I have learned about Romans 2:6-24.


(Romans 2:6-10) God will judge the moralist because their works also fall short of God’s perfect standard.
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.

Will render to each one according to his deeds: This is an awesome and fearful thought, and it condemns the moralist as well as the obvious sinner.

Eternal life to those: If there was one who genuinely did good at all times, they could merit eternal life of their own accord - but there is none, because all, in some way or another are or have been or will be 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: Because all fall short of this standard of God’s constant goodness, God’s wrath will come to all who do evil - without respect to whether they are Jew or Gentile.

The word indignation comes from the idea of “boiling up,” thus having the meaning of a passionate outburst. The word wrath comes from the idea of a swelling which eventually bursts, and applies more to an anger that proceeds from one’s settled nature.

(Romans 2:11-13) God’s principle of impartiality.
For there is no partiality with 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 there is no partiality with God: Partiality comes from two ancient Greek words put together - to receive and face. It means to judge things on the basis of externals or pre-conceived notions.

As many as have sinned without law will also perish without law: Judgment for sin can come with or without 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: God’s righteous judgment is not withheld because someone has heard the law; it is only held back if someone actually does the law.

The Jew - or the religious person - may think that he is saved because he has the law; but has he kept it? The Gentile may think that he is saved because he does not have the law, but has he kept the dictates of his own conscience?

(Romans 2:14-16) Possession of the law is no advantage to the Jew in the Day of Judgment.
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.

Although not having the law, are a law to themselves: Paul explains why the Gentile can be condemned without the law. Their conscience (which is the work of the law written in their hearts) is enough to condemn - or, theoretically, enough to justify - them. A law to themselves does not mean that these "obedient Gentiles" made up their own law (as we use the expression "law unto himself"), but that they were obedient to conscience, the work of the law residing in themselves.

Written in their hearts: Many pagan authors of Paul’s day referred to the "unwritten law" within man. They thought of it as something that points us to the right way. Though it is not embodied in written laws, it is in many ways more important than written laws.

Their thoughts accusing or else excusing them: In theory, a man might be justified ("excused") by obeying his conscience. Unfortunately, every man has violated his conscience (God’s internal revelation to man), just as every man has violated God’s written revelation.

While Paul says in Romans 2:14 that a Gentile, may, by nature do the things contained in the law; he is careful to not say that a Gentile could fulfill the requirements of the law by nature. Though God has His work within every man (resulting in conscience), man can corrupt that work, so that conscience varies from person to person, and our consciences can be damaged, and even restored in Christ.

Their conscience also bearing witness: People who have never heard God’s word directly still have a moral compass that they are accountable to - the conscience.

On the day when God will judge the secrets of men, no man can find refuge from God’s judgment by claiming ignorance of His written revelation; violation of God’s internal revelation is enough to condemn us all.

"God therefore will judge all nations according to the use and abuse they have made of this word, whether it was written in the heart, or written on tables of stone." (Clarke)

According to my gospel: Notice that the day of judgment was a part of Paul’s gospel. He did not shrink from declaring man’s absolute accountability to God.

"‘My gospel.’ Does not this show his courage? As much as to say, ‘I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God onto salvation to every one that believeth.’ He says, ‘my gospel,’ as a soldier speaks of ‘my colors,’ or of ‘my king.’ He resolves to bear this banner to victory, and to serve this royal truth even to the death." (Spurgeon)

The idea that God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ is distinctively Christian. The Jews taught that God the Father alone would judge the world, committing judgment to no one - not even the Messiah.

(Romans 2:17-20) The boast of the Jew.
Indeed you are called a Jew, and rest on the law, and make your boast in God, and know His will, and approve the things that are excellent, being instructed out of the law, and are confident that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, having the form of knowledge and truth in the law.

Indeed you are called a Jew, and rest on the law: Every "boast" of the Jew in this passage concerns the possession of law. The Jewish people of Paul’s day were extremely proud and confident in the fact that God gave His holy law to them as a nation. They believed this confirmed their status as a specially chosen people, and thus insured their salvation. Although the Jew should gratefully receive the law as a gift from God, Paul will show how mere possession of the law justifies no one.

(Romans 2:21-24) The indictment of the Jew.

You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? You who preach that a man should not steal, do you steal? You who say, "Do not commit adultery," do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? You who make your boast in the law, do you dishonor God through breaking the law? For "the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you," as it is written.

You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? It comes down to this principle. "You have the law, do you keep it? You can see how others break the law, do you see how you break it also?"

God applies His law to both our actions and our attitudes. Sometimes we only want our attitudes evaluated, and sometimes only our actions. God will hold us accountable for both motives and actions.

You who abhor idols, do you rob temples: Morris on the idea of robbing temples: "Clearly some people held that a Jew might well make profits from dishonest practices connected with idolatry, and Paul may well have had this in mind."

The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you: Paul reminds the Jew that God has said in the Old Testament that the failure of the Jew to obey the law has caused the Gentile to blaspheme God.

 

[Richie]

Dear Brother Richie and to all who are studying with us,
Blessings to you and your family this Resurrection Sunday.
Here's what I have learned about Romans 2:6-24.


(Romans 2:6-10) God will judge the moralist because their works also fall short of God’s perfect standard.
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.

Will render to each one according to his deeds: This is an awesome and fearful thought, and it condemns the moralist as well as the obvious sinner.

Eternal life to those: If there was one who genuinely did good at all times, they could merit eternal life of their own accord - but there is none, because all, in some way or another are or have been or will be 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: Because all fall short of this standard of God’s constant goodness, God’s wrath will come to all who do evil - without respect to whether they are Jew or Gentile.

The word indignation comes from the idea of “boiling up,” thus having the meaning of a passionate outburst. The word wrath comes from the idea of a swelling which eventually bursts, and applies more to an anger that proceeds from one’s settled nature.

(Romans 2:11-13) God’s principle of impartiality.
For there is no partiality with 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 there is no partiality with God: Partiality comes from two ancient Greek words put together - to receive and face. It means to judge things on the basis of externals or pre-conceived notions.

As many as have sinned without law will also perish without law: Judgment for sin can come with or without 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: God’s righteous judgment is not withheld because someone has heard the law; it is only held back if someone actually does the law.

The Jew - or the religious person - may think that he is saved because he has the law; but has he kept it? The Gentile may think that he is saved because he does not have the law, but has he kept the dictates of his own conscience?

(Romans 2:14-16) Possession of the law is no advantage to the Jew in the Day of Judgment.
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.

Although not having the law, are a law to themselves: Paul explains why the Gentile can be condemned without the law. Their conscience (which is the work of the law written in their hearts) is enough to condemn - or, theoretically, enough to justify - them. A law to themselves does not mean that these "obedient Gentiles" made up their own law (as we use the expression "law unto himself"), but that they were obedient to conscience, the work of the law residing in themselves.

Written in their hearts: Many pagan authors of Paul’s day referred to the "unwritten law" within man. They thought of it as something that points us to the right way. Though it is not embodied in written laws, it is in many ways more important than written laws.

Their thoughts accusing or else excusing them: In theory, a man might be justified ("excused") by obeying his conscience. Unfortunately, every man has violated his conscience (God’s internal revelation to man), just as every man has violated God’s written revelation.

While Paul says in Romans 2:14 that a Gentile, may, by nature do the things contained in the law; he is careful to not say that a Gentile could fulfill the requirements of the law by nature. Though God has His work within every man (resulting in conscience), man can corrupt that work, so that conscience varies from person to person, and our consciences can be damaged, and even restored in Christ.

Their conscience also bearing witness: People who have never heard God’s word directly still have a moral compass that they are accountable to - the conscience.

On the day when God will judge the secrets of men, no man can find refuge from God’s judgment by claiming ignorance of His written revelation; violation of God’s internal revelation is enough to condemn us all.

"God therefore will judge all nations according to the use and abuse they have made of this word, whether it was written in the heart, or written on tables of stone." (Clarke)

According to my gospel: Notice that the day of judgment was a part of Paul’s gospel. He did not shrink from declaring man’s absolute accountability to God.

"‘My gospel.’ Does not this show his courage? As much as to say, ‘I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God onto salvation to every one that believeth.’ He says, ‘my gospel,’ as a soldier speaks of ‘my colors,’ or of ‘my king.’ He resolves to bear this banner to victory, and to serve this royal truth even to the death." (Spurgeon)

The idea that God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ is distinctively Christian. The Jews taught that God the Father alone would judge the world, committing judgment to no one - not even the Messiah.

(Romans 2:17-20) The boast of the Jew.
Indeed you are called a Jew, and rest on the law, and make your boast in God, and know His will, and approve the things that are excellent, being instructed out of the law, and are confident that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, having the form of knowledge and truth in the law.

Indeed you are called a Jew, and rest on the law: Every "boast" of the Jew in this passage concerns the possession of law. The Jewish people of Paul’s day were extremely proud and confident in the fact that God gave His holy law to them as a nation. They believed this confirmed their status as a specially chosen people, and thus insured their salvation. Although the Jew should gratefully receive the law as a gift from God, Paul will show how mere possession of the law justifies no one.

(Romans 2:21-24) The indictment of the Jew.

You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? You who preach that a man should not steal, do you steal? You who say, "Do not commit adultery," do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? You who make your boast in the law, do you dishonor God through breaking the law? For "the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you," as it is written.

You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? It comes down to this principle. "You have the law, do you keep it? You can see how others break the law, do you see how you break it also?"

God applies His law to both our actions and our attitudes. Sometimes we only want our attitudes evaluated, and sometimes only our actions. God will hold us accountable for both motives and actions.

You who abhor idols, do you rob temples: Morris on the idea of robbing temples: "Clearly some people held that a Jew might well make profits from dishonest practices connected with idolatry, and Paul may well have had this in mind."

The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you: Paul reminds the Jew that God has said in the Old Testament that the failure of the Jew to obey the law has caused the Gentile to blaspheme God.

Dear Brother Rjones,

Thank you so much for your post. I enjoyed reading it. I'm really sorry that I couldn't reply earlier. Right now it is 12 'O' clock in the night here in India. I wasn't able to find time today. Today, the whole day I was making notes to prepare for my exams. I will surely reply to your post tomorrow. Kindly have some patience with me. I'm very sorry for prolonging this study.

God bless you.

 

[Richie]

Dear Brother Richie and to all who are studying with us,
Blessings to you and your family this Resurrection Sunday.
Here's what I have learned about Romans 2:6-24.


(Romans 2:6-10) God will judge the moralist because their works also fall short of God’s perfect standard.
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.

Will render to each one according to his deeds: This is an awesome and fearful thought, and it condemns the moralist as well as the obvious sinner.

Eternal life to those: If there was one who genuinely did good at all times, they could merit eternal life of their own accord - but there is none, because all, in some way or another are or have been or will be 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: Because all fall short of this standard of God’s constant goodness, God’s wrath will come to all who do evil - without respect to whether they are Jew or Gentile.

The word indignation comes from the idea of “boiling up,” thus having the meaning of a passionate outburst. The word wrath comes from the idea of a swelling which eventually bursts, and applies more to an anger that proceeds from one’s settled nature.

(Romans 2:11-13) God’s principle of impartiality.
For there is no partiality with 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 there is no partiality with God: Partiality comes from two ancient Greek words put together - to receive and face. It means to judge things on the basis of externals or pre-conceived notions.

As many as have sinned without law will also perish without law: Judgment for sin can come with or without 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: God’s righteous judgment is not withheld because someone has heard the law; it is only held back if someone actually does the law.

The Jew - or the religious person - may think that he is saved because he has the law; but has he kept it? The Gentile may think that he is saved because he does not have the law, but has he kept the dictates of his own conscience?

(Romans 2:14-16) Possession of the law is no advantage to the Jew in the Day of Judgment.
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.

Although not having the law, are a law to themselves: Paul explains why the Gentile can be condemned without the law. Their conscience (which is the work of the law written in their hearts) is enough to condemn - or, theoretically, enough to justify - them. A law to themselves does not mean that these "obedient Gentiles" made up their own law (as we use the expression "law unto himself"), but that they were obedient to conscience, the work of the law residing in themselves.

Written in their hearts: Many pagan authors of Paul’s day referred to the "unwritten law" within man. They thought of it as something that points us to the right way. Though it is not embodied in written laws, it is in many ways more important than written laws.

Their thoughts accusing or else excusing them: In theory, a man might be justified ("excused") by obeying his conscience. Unfortunately, every man has violated his conscience (God’s internal revelation to man), just as every man has violated God’s written revelation.

While Paul says in Romans 2:14 that a Gentile, may, by nature do the things contained in the law; he is careful to not say that a Gentile could fulfill the requirements of the law by nature. Though God has His work within every man (resulting in conscience), man can corrupt that work, so that conscience varies from person to person, and our consciences can be damaged, and even restored in Christ.

Their conscience also bearing witness: People who have never heard God’s word directly still have a moral compass that they are accountable to - the conscience.

On the day when God will judge the secrets of men, no man can find refuge from God’s judgment by claiming ignorance of His written revelation; violation of God’s internal revelation is enough to condemn us all.

"God therefore will judge all nations according to the use and abuse they have made of this word, whether it was written in the heart, or written on tables of stone." (Clarke)

According to my gospel: Notice that the day of judgment was a part of Paul’s gospel. He did not shrink from declaring man’s absolute accountability to God.

"‘My gospel.’ Does not this show his courage? As much as to say, ‘I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God onto salvation to every one that believeth.’ He says, ‘my gospel,’ as a soldier speaks of ‘my colors,’ or of ‘my king.’ He resolves to bear this banner to victory, and to serve this royal truth even to the death." (Spurgeon)

The idea that God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ is distinctively Christian. The Jews taught that God the Father alone would judge the world, committing judgment to no one - not even the Messiah.

(Romans 2:17-20) The boast of the Jew.
Indeed you are called a Jew, and rest on the law, and make your boast in God, and know His will, and approve the things that are excellent, being instructed out of the law, and are confident that you yourself are a guide to the blind, a light to those who are in darkness, an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, having the form of knowledge and truth in the law.

Indeed you are called a Jew, and rest on the law: Every "boast" of the Jew in this passage concerns the possession of law. The Jewish people of Paul’s day were extremely proud and confident in the fact that God gave His holy law to them as a nation. They believed this confirmed their status as a specially chosen people, and thus insured their salvation. Although the Jew should gratefully receive the law as a gift from God, Paul will show how mere possession of the law justifies no one.

(Romans 2:21-24) The indictment of the Jew.

You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? You who preach that a man should not steal, do you steal? You who say, "Do not commit adultery," do you commit adultery? You who abhor idols, do you rob temples? You who make your boast in the law, do you dishonor God through breaking the law? For "the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you," as it is written.

You, therefore, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? It comes down to this principle. "You have the law, do you keep it? You can see how others break the law, do you see how you break it also?"

God applies His law to both our actions and our attitudes. Sometimes we only want our attitudes evaluated, and sometimes only our actions. God will hold us accountable for both motives and actions.

You who abhor idols, do you rob temples: Morris on the idea of robbing temples: "Clearly some people held that a Jew might well make profits from dishonest practices connected with idolatry, and Paul may well have had this in mind."

The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you: Paul reminds the Jew that God has said in the Old Testament that the failure of the Jew to obey the law has caused the Gentile to blaspheme God.

Dear Brother Rjones,

Thank you so much for your post. This is what I want to share with you.

Romans 2:6-10:

Verse 6: will judge all people according to what they have done.

Verse 7: He will give eternal life to those who persist in doing what is good, seeking after the glory and honor and immortality that God offers.

Verse 8: But he will pour out his anger and wrath on those who live for themselves, who refuse to obey the truth and practice evil deeds.

Verse 9: There will be trouble and calamity for everyone who keeps on sinning, for the Jew first and also for the Gentile.

Verse 10: But there will be glory and honor and peace from God for all who do good, for the Jew first and also for the Gentile.

This context clearly talks about the fierce Judgment and Wrath of God. In Romans 2:7 one thing we need to remember is that, when we have the intention to Glorify God, then God will give us the spirit to do good things. We cannot rely on our strength, because we will definitely fail. Please see this video:

http://www.talkjesus.com/streaming-video/17805-trust-lord-don-moen-video.html

Now in Romans 2:8 we've got to remember that we fall in sin:

1) When we don't have the intention to Glorify God.
2) When we reject God's word in our hearts.
3) When we reject God's promises and go against His will.
4) When we are not willing to receive His strength that He gives us freely.

Ultimately God's terrible judgment will be on us (Romans 2:9)

Now in Romans 2:9 & 10, God has made it clear that He is showing no difference between the Jews and the Gentiles (In other words, no partiality (Refer Romans 2:11))

Romans 2:12-13:

12 God will punish the Gentiles when they sin, even though they never had God’s written law. And he will punish the Jews when they sin, for they do have the law.

13 For it is not merely knowing the law that brings God’s approval. Those who obey the law will be declared right in God’s sight.

Now Paul the Apostle gives a clear explanation in Romans 2:14-15 to the fact, "Why God would punish the gentiles even though they never had God's written law?"

Romans 2:14-15:

Verse 14: Even when Gentiles, who do not have God’s written law, instinctively follow what the law says, they show that in their hearts they know right from wrong.

Verse 15: They demonstrate that God’s law is written within them, for their own consciences either accuse them or tell them they are doing what is right.

This is one of the reasons why Paul the Apostle says this in

Romans 1:20: ..........So they have no excuse whatsoever for not knowing God.

But it is our Job to tell the people (Non Christians) about Jesus. Oh Lord! please help us do it. Help us be a witnesses unto you.

Romans 2:12: ........And he will punish the Jews when they sin, for they do have the law.

Even the Jews don't have an exception when they sin because they know the law. Romans 2:13 makes it clear that there is a huge difference between knowing the law and obeying the law.

Now let us go to:

Romans 2:16: The day will surely come when God, by Jesus Christ, will judge everyone’s secret life. This is my message.

I have discussed this often. Our secrets, our thoughts, our intentions, etc will be revealed. Of course it is not going to be pleasant to anybody at all.

I will reply to the rest of the chapter (That is Romans 2:17-29) tomorrow. I'm really very sorry for prolonging this study. I'm still preparing the notes of that part. I hope you will enjoy this post.

I want to hear from you.

God bless you.

 

[Richie]

Dear Brother Rjones,

I'm glad to be back to study with you and I'm very very sorry for prolonging this study. Of course I'm a little bit tensed as my exams are approaching, but I just don't want to keep away from this bible study. I know that God is with me and He will help me, just like how He helped me over the years.

Now let us come to:

Romans 2:17-20:

17 If you are a Jew, you are relying on God’s law for your special relationship with him. You boast that all is well between yourself and God.

18 Yes, you know what he wants; you know right from wrong because you have been taught his law.

19 You are convinced that you are a guide for the blind and a beacon light for people who are lost in darkness without God.

20 You think you can instruct the ignorant and teach children the ways of God. For you are certain that in God’s law you have complete knowledge and truth.

I would like to interpret this context in four different ways:

Firstly this context indicates Spiritual pride, if I'm precise because Spiritual pride causes a person to:

1) Boast a lot of things, that he/she is right before God.
2) Tell others to do a thing which they never ever practiced.

Now based on the second point, people have now made a famous quote:

"Practice what you preach."

But I don't think Jesus wants us to do it this way, it should be the other way round:

"Preach what you have already practiced."

Please see this thread:

http://www.talkjesus.com/polls/18841-appropriate.html

It is very easy to say things, give suggestions, lay heavy burdens but really hard to put it in practice.

Secondly, this context (Romans 2:17-20) indicates the characteristic behavior of the Pharisees. This context can be compared to these verses (Here is what Jesus says):

Matthew 7:3-5:

Verse 3: And why worry about a speck in your friend’s eye when you have a log in your own?

Verse 4: How can you think of saying, ‘Let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,’ when you can’t see past the log in your own eye?

Verse 5: Hypocrite! First get rid of the log from your own eye; then perhaps you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye.

Thirdly and sadly, this context (Romans 2:17-20) represents the Characteristic behavior of many people in the Church today. The Pharisees and scribes have crept into the Church. They are so proud of having Christian names read the bible everyday and condemn the people who are not Christians, yet for all they will be doing things which are very well seriously wrong.

Even I was like this before, in some aspects before I got saved, but thank God He changed me a lot. Of course I still make mistakes, but God knows that I'm not perfect, and when I ask Him forgiveness, I know that He will forgive me.

Fourth, this context (Romans 2:17-20) talks about people who don't acknowledge the fact that they are sinners and they need God's forgiveness.

Now let us go to the next verses:

Romans 2:21-24:

Verse 21: Well then, if you teach others, why don’t you teach yourself? You tell others not to steal, but do you steal?

Verse 22: You say it is wrong to commit adultery, but do you do it? You condemn idolatry, but do you steal from pagan temples?

Verse 23: You are so proud of knowing the law, but you dishonor God by breaking it.

Verse 24: No wonder the Scriptures say, “The world blasphemes the name of God because of you.”

Here Paul gives a very simple explanation about we give a chance for the unbelievers to blaspheme the Name of God.

Please see this whole thread (if possible):

http://www.talkjesus.com/bible-study-hall/19847-light-not-stumbling-block.html

We can reach out to the unbelievers only with a message of forgiveness, or else, we cannot win souls.

Here Paul gives a very straight forward and simple explanation in these verses:

Romans 2:25-29:

Verse 25: The Jewish ceremony of circumcision is worth something only if you obey God’s law. But if you don’t obey God’s law, you are no better off than an uncircumcised Gentile.

Verse 26: And if the Gentiles obey God’s law, won’t God give them all the rights and honors of being his own people?

Verse 27: In fact, uncircumcised Gentiles who keep God’s law will be much better off than you Jews who are circumcised and know so much about God’s law but don’t obey it.

Verse 28: For you are not a true Jew just because you were born of Jewish parents or because you have gone through the Jewish ceremony of circumcision.

Verse 29: No, a true Jew is one whose heart is right with God. And true circumcision is not a cutting of the body but a change of heart produced by God’s Spirit. Whoever has that kind of change seeks praise from God, not from people.

Many people being Christians don't realize the fact that they have to obey God. They just have a blind belief that they are going straight to heaven when they die and live their life as they like. They allow self righteousness to rule their lives rather than the righteousness of God. They don't acknowledge the fact that they are sinners and finally they become very stubborn and ultimately a bad witness unto God. In fact there are non-Christians who have a better Character than some people who claim themselves to be Christians.

The only difference between what Paul is talking about and what I'm talking about here is, "Paul is comparing the Jew and the Gentile, whereas I'm comparing the Christian and the non-Christian.".

Some of my friends, they were Hindus, but now they are born again believers. To tell the truth, they are 1000 times better than some people who call themselves Christians.

This is what I want to share with you. Shall we go to the next chapter or shall be talk more on this (It is up to you).

I'm very very sorry to give you trouble.

God bless you.

 

[rjones]

Dear Brother Richie,
Great post. In these passages we do find Paul addressing spiritual pride.
I especially like what you said here.

Many people being Christians don't realize the fact that they have to obey God. They just have a blind belief that they are going straight to heaven when they die and live their life as they like. They allow self righteousness to rule their lives rather than the righteousness of God. They don't acknowledge the fact that they are sinners and finally they become very stubborn and ultimately a bad witness unto God. In fact there are non-Christians who have a better Character than some people who claim themselves to be Christians.

This is the truth. I could not agree with you more!

Here's something of interest I want to share.

William Newell summarizes Romans 2 with “Seven Great Principles of God’s Judgment” that are worth noting:

God’s judgment is according to truth (Rom. 2:2)
God’s judgment is according to accumulated guilt (Rom. 2:5)
God’s judgment is according to works (Rom. 2:6)
God’s judgment is without partiality (Rom. 2:11)
God’s judgment is according to performance, not knowledge (Rom. 2:13)
God’s judgment reaches the secrets of the heart (Rom. 2:16)
God’s judgment is according to reality, not religious profession (Rom. 2:17-29)

We can go on to the next chapter. Can you start us out Brother?
I'll await your post.
God bless you.

 

[Richie]

Here's something of interest I want to share.

William Newell summarizes Romans 2 with “Seven Great Principles of God’s Judgment” that are worth noting:

God’s judgment is according to truth (Rom. 2:2)
God’s judgment is according to accumulated guilt (Rom. 2:5)
God’s judgment is according to works (Rom. 2:6)
God’s judgment is without partiality (Rom. 2:11)
God’s judgment is according to performance, not knowledge (Rom. 2:13)
God’s judgment reaches the secrets of the heart (Rom. 2:16)
God’s judgment is according to reality, not religious profession (Rom. 2:17-29)

Dear Brother Rjones,

Thank you so much for your reply. I liked the way you related your post on God's judgment.

Here is my post on Romans 3:1-8.

First let us focus on Romans 3:1-4. I believe that these verses talk about utilizing the opportunity to come to know Jesus.

Let us look at:

Romans 3:1-2:

Verse 1: Then what’s the advantage of being a Jew? Is there any value in the Jewish ceremony of circumcision?

Verse 2: Yes, being a Jew has many advantages. First of all, the Jews were entrusted with the whole revelation of God.

Paul the Apostle here continues his comparison between the Jews and the gentiles. In the same way, I continue my comparison between the Christians and the non-Christians.

The main advantage of being born in a Christian family is that we have the opportunity to know Jesus from birth, but unfortunately many people misuse it. If we were not born in a Christian family, then we would have probably never got the chance to know Jesus. (For example: If we were born in a country like North Korea, where the people are completely isolated from the rest of the world, we would have never come to know about Jesus, but let us not discuss about North Korea because there is so much of suffering, poverty and an antichrist regime ruling that country, no TV, no phone, no modern development at all, in fact the people don't even have an idea of the world outside their country).

We should be so grateful to God because we got the chance to know Jesus.

Romans 3:3-4:

Verse 3: True, some of them were unfaithful; but just because they broke their promises, does that mean God will break his promises?

Verse 4: Of course not! Though everyone else in the world is a liar, God is true. As the Scriptures say, “He will be proved right in what he says, and he will win his case in court.”

To continue our discussion, just like I said, even though we being born in a Christian family, got the opportunity to know Jesus from birth, many of them don't utilize that opportunity and they live their life as they like, but God is still faithful. He will never break His promises. He still gives them time to come to Him. Some of my friends (I already told you in my previous post), they were Hindus, but now they are born again Christians (While their family members are still Hindus). Just look at the way they utilized the opportunity they had, to come to know Jesus. Isn't it amazing?

Now let us go to the next verses:

Romans 3:5-8:

Verse 5: “But,” some say, “our sins serve a good purpose, for people will see God’s goodness when he declares us sinners to be innocent. Isn’t it unfair, then, for God to punish us?” (That is actually the way some people talk.)

Verse 6: Of course not! If God is not just, how is he qualified to judge the world?

Verse 7: “But,” some might still argue, “how can God judge and condemn me as a sinner if my dishonesty highlights his truthfulness and brings him more glory?”

Verse 8: If you follow that kind of thinking, however, you might as well say that the more we sin the better it is! Those who say such things deserve to be condemned, yet some slander me by saying this is what I preach!

Now Paul the Apostle, jumped to a different context. This type of thinking will definitely lead us astray. This kind of thinking is seen today among the Jehovah's witnesses. It is a false gospel and a dangerous gospel.

Here, this kind of thinking is intended to promote the idea that God is not going to judge. Now if the idea that God is not going to judge is promoted, then:

1) Remission of sins through the blood of Jesus will be ignored.
2) The message of the cross will be ignored.

This is what is happening in some Churches today. Just look at the way, people are being mislead.

This context, what Paul is talking about is an absolutely satanic way of thinking and this is promoted today in some Churches, the fact that God will not Judge. They say, "God is so merciful, he will never punish and send people to hell." This is an absolutely satanic doctrine.

We should be so thankful to God because of the way He brought us into His presence.

Please see this video:

http://www.talkjesus.com/streaming-video/19910-down-fall-lucifer.html

This is what I want to share with you.

God bless you.

 

[Maureen]

I had started the book of Daniel, just at home, as I'd not long finished studying Ezekiel, but I'm not going to continue with it, I'm going to start with you in Romans, as Paul is my favourite Biblical person.

I may not post for sometime I need to digest what I read and write, took me months to cover Ezekiel but I had much enjoyment in it.

The pace here is a bit fast for me, but I'll keep on studying and reading your writings.
Thank you

 

[rjones]

Sister Maureen, I'm glad you have decided to join this study.
Brother Richie, your last post was again excellent and very insightful. Also, thank you for your powerful prayer for our family.
Here's my post for Romans 3:9-18.
May God bless you all.


Romans 3:9 The guilt of both Jew and Gentile before God.

What then? Are we better than they? Not at all. For we have previously charged both Jews and Greeks that they are all under sin.

Are we better than they? Not at all: Since Paul was Jewish by birth and heritage (Phil. 3:4-6), when he says “we” he means “we Jews.” The point is that by nature, the Jewish person is no more right with God than the pagan or the moralist. Paul has demonstrated that the pagan, the moralist and the Jew are all under sin and therefore, under condemnation.

Under sin is a powerful phrase. It speaks of our slavery to sin, literally meaning “sold under sin.” By nature every person knows what it is like to be a slave to sin, both Jews and Greeks.

Romans 3:10-18 The Old Testament witnesses to the universal depravity and guilt of mankind.

As it is written: “There is none righteous, no, not one; there is none who understands; there is none who seeks after God. They have all turned aside; they have together become unprofitable; there is none who does good, no, not one.”
“Their throat is an open tomb; with their tongues they have practiced deceit”;
“The poison of asps is under their lips”; “Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness.”
“Their feet are swift to shed blood; destruction and misery are in their ways; and the way of peace they have not known.”
“There is no fear of God before their eyes.”

These quotations from the Psalms (Ps. 14:1-3; 5:9, 140:3, 10:7 and 36:1) and from Isaiah 59:7-8 all support the opening statement: There is none righteous, no, not one.

Paul looks at the human condition from top to bottom. He begins with the head and moves all the way down to the feet. This passage can be an X-ray study of the lost sinner, from head to foot.

This look at the human condition is depressing. What’s the point? The Apostle Paul wants us to understand our complete inability to save ourselves. The fall touches every part of man’s being, and the inventory of body parts corrupted by the fall demonstrates this.

There is none righteous, no, not one: When God finds none righteous, it is because there are none. It isn’t as if there were some and God couldn’t see them. There has never been a truly righteous man apart from Jesus Christ. "Even Adam was not righteous. He was innocent - not knowing good and evil." (Newell)

There is none who seeks after God: We deceive ourselves into thinking that man, on his own, really does seek after God. Don’t all the religion and rituals and practices from the beginning of time demonstrate that man seeks after God? Not at all. If man initiates the search then he doesn’t seek the true God, the God of the Bible. Instead he seeks an idol that he makes himself.

“You have gone through this form of worship, but you have not sought after God. I am sick of this empty religiousness. We see it everywhere; it is not communion with God, it is not getting to God; indeed, God is not in it all.” (Spurgeon)

They have together become unprofitable: The word unprofitable has the idea of rotten fruit. It speaks of something that was permanently bad and therefore useless.

With these references from the Psalms, Paul calls virtually every part of man’s body into guilt: throat, tongue, lips, mouth, feet, eyes are all shown to be filled with sin and rebellion against God.

Their feet are swift to shed blood: For further details, read your daily papers!

There is no fear of God before their eyes: This summarizes the entire thought. Every sin and rebellion against God happens because we do not have a proper respect for Him. Wherever there is sin, there is no fear of God.

John Calvin on the fear of God: "In short, as it is a bridle to restrain our wickedness, so when it is wanting, we feel at liberty to indulge every kind of licentiousness."

 

[Maureen]

There is none who seeks after God: We deceive ourselves into thinking that man, on his own, really does seek after God. Don’t all the religion and rituals and practices from the beginning of time demonstrate that man seeks after God? Not at all. If man initiates the search then he doesn’t seek the true God, the God of the Bible. Instead he seeks an idol that he makes himself.

“You have gone through this form of worship, but you have not sought after God. I am sick of this empty religiousness. We see it everywhere; it is not communion with God, it is not getting to God; indeed, God is not in it all.” (Spurgeon)

They have together become unprofitable: The word unprofitable has the idea of rotten fruit. It speaks of something that was permanently bad and therefore useless.

With these references from the Psalms, Paul calls virtually every part of man’s body into guilt: throat, tongue, lips, mouth, feet, eyes are all shown to be filled with sin and rebellion against God.

Their feet are swift to shed blood: For further details, read your daily papers!

There is no fear of God before their eyes: This summarizes the entire thought. Every sin and rebellion against God happens because we do not have a proper respect for Him.
Wherever there is sin, there is no fear of God.
John Calvin on the fear of God: "In short, as it is a bridle to restrain our wickedness, so when it is wanting, we feel at liberty to indulge every kind of licentiousness."

Thank you for your invatation, much appreciated, though I read slowly.

how so true the above all is, I just wanted to make this small comment, and add a very small part to this.
I have printed off all the posts to take away and study up tonight, so hopefully I will get back with something more.
I am looking forward to reading through it all and to find what special thing arises from God's own word.
Little nuggets of pure Gold.

 

[Maureen]

I've caught up, bit faster than I reckoned.

I liked the reference to John 8 v 3-9 in regard to Roman 2 v 1-3
were a woman was brought to Jesus taken in adultery,
I know you said about doing another study on this seperatly, I look forward to it.
I've always found this piece of scripture intriguing. and heard it spoken of as to what must Jesus have written.
also too that the man was not brought,
I agree also, he had to be either a Pharisee or a Scribe.
whatever Jesus choose to write, certainly disturbed them enough for them all to leave the scene.

sorry to go off on this passage but I couldnt help myself as I've said it really does intrigue me.

as for the rest of the study, it's excellent.

Nothing really to add at this stage, you's have it all well covered and I have agreed with all I have read.

Oh for Paul in our day now, he was a man who knew how to speak out.
Not counting the cost either.

When I first got saved I read nothing only his writings, I was so caught up with his writing, I couldn't get past them.
So much so it lead me into treacherous waters, but God gloriously came to my rescue, too long a story to put on here, dont want to spoil our study.

Guess that's why I'm enjoying it so much though.

To true also, were sin abounds God is not feared.
Not recognised for who He is.

well I will leave it at that.
Looking forward to the rest of Ch 3.
All thanks to your good selves.

 

[Richie]

I had started the book of Daniel, just at home, as I'd not long finished studying Ezekiel, but I'm not going to continue with it, I'm going to start with you in Romans, as Paul is my favourite Biblical person.

I may not post for sometime I need to digest what I read and write, took me months to cover Ezekiel but I had much enjoyment in it.

The pace here is a bit fast for me, but I'll keep on studying and reading your writings.
Thank you

Dear Sister Maureen,

I am very very glad :happy:that you have joined us to study Romans. Please do take your time in reading all the posts for Romans 1 and 2 and you can freely ask questions related to the previous posts or even raise discussions (it depends entirely on you). We will be doing this slowly. Brother Rjones started this thread on March 4th. Infact brother Rjones and myself, we had a bible study together for nearly 2 months on Revelation 2 and 3. This is the thread:

http://www.talkjesus.com/bible-study-hall/17507-revelation-2-3-a.html (If you are interested you can see it. I understand that it should be humanly possible for you too. It depends on you.)

I will continue to pray for you and your husband.

Sister Maureen, I'm glad you have decided to join this study.
Brother Richie, your last post was again excellent and very insightful. Also, thank you for your powerful prayer for our family.
Here's my post for Romans 3:9-18.
May God bless you all.


Romans 3:9 The guilt of both Jew and Gentile before God.

What then? Are we better than they? Not at all. For we have previously charged both Jews and Greeks that they are all under sin.

Are we better than they? Not at all: Since Paul was Jewish by birth and heritage (Phil. 3:4-6), when he says “we” he means “we Jews.” The point is that by nature, the Jewish person is no more right with God than the pagan or the moralist. Paul has demonstrated that the pagan, the moralist and the Jew are all under sin and therefore, under condemnation.

Under sin is a powerful phrase. It speaks of our slavery to sin, literally meaning “sold under sin.” By nature every person knows what it is like to be a slave to sin, both Jews and Greeks.

Romans 3:10-18 The Old Testament witnesses to the universal depravity and guilt of mankind.

As it is written: “There is none righteous, no, not one; there is none who understands; there is none who seeks after God. They have all turned aside; they have together become unprofitable; there is none who does good, no, not one.”
“Their throat is an open tomb; with their tongues they have practiced deceit”;
“The poison of asps is under their lips”; “Whose mouth is full of cursing and bitterness.”
“Their feet are swift to shed blood; destruction and misery are in their ways; and the way of peace they have not known.”
“There is no fear of God before their eyes.”

These quotations from the Psalms (Ps. 14:1-3; 5:9, 140:3, 10:7 and 36:1) and from Isaiah 59:7-8 all support the opening statement: There is none righteous, no, not one.

Paul looks at the human condition from top to bottom. He begins with the head and moves all the way down to the feet. This passage can be an X-ray study of the lost sinner, from head to foot.

This look at the human condition is depressing. What’s the point? The Apostle Paul wants us to understand our complete inability to save ourselves. The fall touches every part of man’s being, and the inventory of body parts corrupted by the fall demonstrates this.

There is none righteous, no, not one: When God finds none righteous, it is because there are none. It isn’t as if there were some and God couldn’t see them. There has never been a truly righteous man apart from Jesus Christ. "Even Adam was not righteous. He was innocent - not knowing good and evil." (Newell)

There is none who seeks after God: We deceive ourselves into thinking that man, on his own, really does seek after God. Don’t all the religion and rituals and practices from the beginning of time demonstrate that man seeks after God? Not at all. If man initiates the search then he doesn’t seek the true God, the God of the Bible. Instead he seeks an idol that he makes himself.

“You have gone through this form of worship, but you have not sought after God. I am sick of this empty religiousness. We see it everywhere; it is not communion with God, it is not getting to God; indeed, God is not in it all.” (Spurgeon)

They have together become unprofitable: The word unprofitable has the idea of rotten fruit. It speaks of something that was permanently bad and therefore useless.

With these references from the Psalms, Paul calls virtually every part of man’s body into guilt: throat, tongue, lips, mouth, feet, eyes are all shown to be filled with sin and rebellion against God.

Their feet are swift to shed blood: For further details, read your daily papers!

There is no fear of God before their eyes: This summarizes the entire thought. Every sin and rebellion against God happens because we do not have a proper respect for Him. Wherever there is sin, there is no fear of God.

John Calvin on the fear of God: "In short, as it is a bridle to restrain our wickedness, so when it is wanting, we feel at liberty to indulge every kind of licentiousness."

Dear brother Rjones,

I'm very very glad to receive a reply from you. I will continue to pray for your familyray:. Your post is excellent. It is very much true indeed.

But I'm very very sorry that I am not able to reply to you now. My final semister exams will begin from April 1st. After these exams, the third year in Engineering will be completed and I will go to the fourth year (final year). In June, I will be attending campus interviews and I will be placed in a company for a career.

Please pray for my exams. I will most probably be able to reply on Thursday (April 3rd) or on Friday.

God bless you. I'm sorry for the delay.

 

[Maureen]

Ritchie
thank you for your contining prayers for me and my husband, especially my husband as he does not know the Lord yet.

I will have time to seriously get into this all, by the time RJones comes back then on 3 April, Hallelujah.

Thank you for all your effort and patience with me.
Praise the Lord.

I may have questions and this is the best way for me to ask them
in writing it's what I do best, not what I write, just that it's in writing.
Thank you

 

[Maureen]

okay ya-all
I'm here and have caught up now,
here's my study on Ch.3 a bit hop-hazzard, please forgive, but I throughly enjoy learning, I look forward to your more in depth revelations.
but for now here's mine.

V18 (sorry, I know I've come in at this verse)
There is no fear of God.and ther isn't were sin abound, sin and God's way - conflict, they are opposites.

V20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sinIt is this, God's law that bringeht forth sin to our knowing, to be aware of it.

I remember my son said once, 'it was easier to live not being aware of sin, he didn't like it, because men/women enjoy their sin, but it is temporal, for a season only and brings forth eternal damnation.

V25 Beautiful verse I think.
Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
The blood of the lamb - sacrificed for the remission of our past sins.
Praise to the Lamb of God who laid down His life for us on Calvary's Cross at Golgatha.

V28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.I'm uncertain as to the whole meaning of this verse, it is saying the law can be a restriction making us adhere to which we have no call to do, and then that faith alone, is enough justification and speaks volumes?
I've probably got this all out of context so I will appreciate you enlightening bro's.

V30 Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.Circumcision and uncircumision are both justified by faith meaning either or neither is of importance but faith is.

V31 Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.We establish the law through faith, because if we have faith we will automatically want to keep the law and not do the opposite, to shun it.
Also with the help of the comforter, the Holy Spirit.

okay, don't be too harsh now, I've not done study as yet to be marked, no one usually marks it, I do it alone at home, so I don't feel like I'm in an exam then.
go gentle please.

 

[Richie]

okay ya-all
I'm here and have caught up now,
here's my study on Ch.3 a bit hop-hazzard, please forgive, but I throughly enjoy learning, I look forward to your more in depth revelations.
but for now here's mine.

V18 (sorry, I know I've come in at this verse)
There is no fear of God.and ther isn't were sin abound, sin and God's way - conflict, they are opposites.

V20 Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sinIt is this, God's law that bringeht forth sin to our knowing, to be aware of it.

I remember my son said once, 'it was easier to live not being aware of sin, he didn't like it, because men/women enjoy their sin, but it is temporal, for a season only and brings forth eternal damnation.

V25 Beautiful verse I think.
Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God;
The blood of the lamb - sacrificed for the remission of our past sins.
Praise to the Lamb of God who laid down His life for us on Calvary's Cross at Golgatha.

V28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the law.I'm uncertain as to the whole meaning of this verse, it is saying the law can be a restriction making us adhere to which we have no call to do, and then that faith alone, is enough justification and speaks volumes?
I've probably got this all out of context so I will appreciate you enlightening bro's.

V30 Seeing it is one God, which shall justify the circumcision by faith, and uncircumcision through faith.Circumcision and uncircumision are both justified by faith meaning either or neither is of importance but faith is.

V31 Do we then make void the law through faith? God forbid: yea, we establish the law.We establish the law through faith, because if we have faith we will automatically want to keep the law and not do the opposite, to shun it.
Also with the help of the comforter, the Holy Spirit.

okay, don't be too harsh now, I've not done study as yet to be marked, no one usually marks it, I do it alone at home, so I don't feel like I'm in an exam then.
go gentle please.

Dear Sister Maureen,

Thank you so much for your post. I'm very glad that you are studying with us. Nice post! I like it. But kindly give me some time to reply to this study. First I will reply to Brother Rjones' post on Romans 3:9-18 (I have almost completed preparing notes for that), after this I will reply to your post. Right now I'm facing the semester exams in college. Please pray for my exams. But please don't go ahead to the next chapter immediately, please wait for me. I will post my study.

God bless you.