Scripture to Read: Romans 2
As we examine Romans 2, we see how God led Paul to write a loving rebuke in Romans 2:1–16 to everyone who thinks they can make themselves righteous by trying to keep the Law. God makes it clear that anyone who is passing judgment on those living according to Romans 1:18–32 but who do not have a relationship with Him through our Lord Jesus Christ, will be judged in the same way as those described in Romans 1:18–32. God also reminds us that He is the only One worthy who can pass judgment on anyone. God tells us in Romans 1:12 that sin is what separates everyone from Him. Then, in Romans 1:13, we read that the only ones who are made righteous before God are those who walk according to His Word. Now, this might sound like a contradiction to those who try to make themselves righteous by keeping God’s Law, but God’s Word has no contradictions. God is letting us know that only those surrendered to Christ are capable of walking in obedience to Him, not trying to earn righteousness but because He has given us His righteousness. Those apart from Christ have zero righteousness in them because apart from Christ, everyone is lost in their sin. Finally, in Romans 2:17–29, God lovingly rebukes the Jews for thinking that because they are Jewish and have been circumcised that they are made right with Him. Again, our fleshly actions never make us righteous before God. God alone makes us righteous through Christ!
Challenge & Application
How are you helping others who think their goodness is enough to see that righteousness only comes from God through Christ?
How are you showing others through your obedience to God’s word that you are righteous because of Christ in you?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!