November 03, 2021
We forget this--or choose to ignore it. God is going to judge those who rebel against Him and refuse to believe in His Son Jesus. And this judgment is inescapable!
Romans, Chapter 2, is a clear explanation of this. Just like Paul we should share these truths—in appropriate times and ways--with those outside of Christ. It is designed to help unbelievers see what’s coming and push them towards a response to God’s gracious offer of mercy and pardon through Christ.
A STORM COMING
If a tornado was coming toward your house, you would think it uncaring of someone if they knew and didn't tell you. Every single person in human history who does not run to Christ for their forgiveness and salvation is facing a horrific judgment before God one day. Paul says God’s judgment is ...
1. Perfectly right (vs. 2)
"And we know that the judgment of God rightly falls upon those who practice such things"
2. Stored up (vs. 5)
"Because of your stubbornness and unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath for yourself."
3. Personal (vs. 6)
"Who will render to every person according to their deeds"
4. Impartial (vs. 11)
"For there is no partiality with God."
5. According to the light you've received (vs. 12)
"All who have sinned without the Law will also perish without the Law, and all who have sinned under the Law will be judged by the Law."
6. Complete (vs. 16)
"On that day ... God will judge the secrets of men through Christ Jesus."
God felt compelled to warn us about this. He used Paul as His God-inspired writer, and recorded it in a clear, profound, logical way, so that every person on earth would have access to this truth for all time. The truth of inescapable judgment should move us to holy fear and genuine repentance.
It is our job to listen and respond to these truths personally. And, if we are now a follower of Jesus Christ, it is our compassionate task to warn others of these sobering realities.
Father, thank You for telling us what happens when we ignore you. Sober me with these words. Help me to remember that every person I encounter today will either experience a judgment that leads to blessing and rewards as a believer, or a judgment of their deeds to everlasting death if they ignore the grace of God.
March 29, 2023
As a pastor for the last 55 years, I have had the joy of being encouraged and blessed and prayed for by so many people. It is what carries you in your task of shepherding people. As I look back over five decades of ministry, their love has dramatically enriched my life.
But also, a pastor leads. And when anyone leads, there are almost always some who disagree.
March 28, 2023
March 27, 2023
