Thoughts on the Epistle to the Romans (32)

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We know that the judgment of God is according to truth against those who practise such things. And do you think this, o man, you would judge those practising such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God?

Romans 2, 2.3

God’s judicial verdict on mankind is “according to truth”. That is indisputable, for God is true. His judgment corresponds to the facts, the reality of man’s life. Any outward appearance or unreality is out of place, for God sees the heart. God’s power of discernment is objective and perfect; His standards remain ever unalterable, for with Him there is “no variation” (cf. Romans 3, 4; Hebrews 4, 12.13; James 1, 17).

In His divine judgment God cannot be bribed.  Religious rituals, sacrifices or other “gifts”  will not make Him more indulgent in face of man’s self-will. He must condemn all self-will and every act done in independence of Him as iniquity (cf. 1 Samuel 15, 22.23).

God’s judgment is thus absolutely infallible and incontestable. So why do many people envisage somehow surviving God’s judgment unscathed? If they condemn evil in others, with what right do they think God will make an exception of themselves?

There is only one way to escape God’s righteous judgment: that is, if the punishment is borne not by myself but by a substitute. And this is the miracle that happened in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ! Whoever renounces his self-will, turns to God and believes on the Saviour Jesus Christ, has the assurance of God’s word: “The chastisement for our peace was upon him”  (Isaiah 53, 5).