Series: The heart of the Gospel

Evening worship at Annalong Presbyterian Church. The service will be… read more

Evening worship at Annalong Presbyterian Church. The service will be… read more

Paul draws our attention once again to the father of the Jews, Abraham. He wants us to know that because of Abraham the gospel is extended to the gentiles and is truly known as the father of us all. Paul assures us that it is faith alone that saves us, the same faith Abraham had when faced with trials and the seemingly unchangeable circumstances of his life.

The Jews to whom Paul was writing were caught up in their history. Every part of their worship was given to them through their historical experience. But their religious practices had become so far removed from God’s original plan for worship that they had diluted and distorted true worship. Paul challenges this approach to worship by pressing home that our righteousness from God can only come by faith.

Martin Luther, the great reformer, was awakened to the truth of the gospel by discovering Romans 3: 21-31. Having concern for his own sin, the knowledge that righteousness from God was by faith alone in Jesus Christ. The closing verses of this passage provide us with three responses to the truth of this gospel: Humiliation, Integration and Affirmation.

Paul speaks clearly about humanity’s condition. No single one of us is good or righteous. Our sins will be judged by God, the impartial judge. But there is hope. Paul details our problem so that we can find peace and assurance in the righteousness that comes from God.

Paul challenges to readers not to think that they are better than others because of their history and culture. God judges all of humanity on their obedience to his law: the written law and the natural law he has imprinted on the heart of all people. We are called to live by God’s word and demonstrate our love for him in how we act to those in the church and those outside of it.

Paul’s message is simple in chapter 2 – don’t judge others! That is easier said than done, but as we rely on the mercy of God and his impartiality in his judgement toward so, so we become cautious in our thoughts about others. But grace remains. God’s kindness should point us to him and his love and as Paul concludes this section he tells us a wonderful truth in verse 11: For God shows no partiality.

Because humanity naturally goes against God they have been left to their sin and will face its punishment if they don’t repent. Paul affirms that we all need the mercy of God to know his goodness in salvation.