Scripture References: Romans 1:18-3:26; Matthew 13; Matthew 25; Hebrews 9:27; 1 Corinthians 4:3-5; Romans 5:8-9; 2 Corinthians 5:21
Intro: Continuing our study in Romans, we explore why the Gospel is good news. It's not just good advice, but news of God's achievement. However, the good news only makes sense against the backdrop of the bad news presented in Romans 1-3: God's just wrath revealed against universal human sinfulness. Understanding the reasons for wrath helps us appreciate the reasons to dance in God's grace.
Key Points:
- God as Just Judge: Scripture repeatedly affirms God as the ultimate, just Judge (Ps 50:6, Isa 33:22, Heb 9:27). His judgment isn't arbitrary or emotional but satisfies perfect righteousness (Ps 9:8). He knows hearts perfectly (Jer 17:10) and shows no partiality (Rom 2:11). His plan involves judging evil to establish His righteous kingdom (Matt 13, Matt 25).
- Wrath Against the "Godless" (Rom 1): Paul begins with the pagan. Their core issue is idolatry: suppressing the truth about God revealed in creation and instead worshipping created things. The excuse "I didn't know" fails due to this general revelation. They dishonor God and, consequently, each other.
- Wrath Against the "Good" (Rom 2): Next, the moralist who judges others. Their issue is hypocrisy: condemning sins they also practice. Comparison ("at least I'm not...") fails before a just God who judges actions and hearts impartially. Self-righteousness doesn't negate guilt.
- Wrath Against the "Religious" (Rom 2): Then, the religious Jew relying on the Law and heritage. Their issue is superiority/empty ritual: boasting in God's Law but breaking it, trusting external signs (circumcision) or lineage ("father Abraham") without genuine heart change. Ritual doesn't equal righteousness.
- Universal Sin & God's Solution (Rom 3): Paul concludes all humanity is under sin ("no one is righteous, no, not one"). Sin affects every part of us (total depravity). No one can be justified by works. BUT NOW (Rom 3:21), God reveals His righteousness as a gift through faith in Jesus. Christ's death was a propitiation, satisfying God's just wrath against sin (Rom 3:25, Rom 5:9), allowing God to be both "just and the justifier" of those who believe (Rom 3:26).
Conclusion: Romans 1-3 demonstrates that everyone—pagan, moralist, religious—falls short and stands under God's just wrath. No one earns righteousness. This universal bad news highlights the brilliance of the good news: God, in His justice and love, provided His own righteousness through Jesus Christ's substitutionary death. We receive this righteousness not by works, but solely by faith in Him.
Call to Action: Acknowledge the universality of sin and your personal need for God's grace. Abandon self-righteous attempts—whether through idolatry, comparison, or religious performance. Trust only in Jesus Christ and His finished work on the cross for your right standing with God. Come to communion recognizing your sin and gratefully receiving the gift of righteousness He purchased.
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