Paul says that anyone who passes judgment is without excuse because theydo the same things. God‘s judgment is based on truth and His kindness ismeant to lead people to repentance. God will repay everyone according towhat they have done; both Jews and Gentiles will be held accountable whenHe judges people‘s secret thoughts. - P35
1You, therefore, have no excuse, you who pass judgment on someone else, for at whatever point you judge another, you are condemning yourself, because you who pass judgment do the same things.
2Now we know that God’s judgment against those who do such things is based on truth.
3So when you, a mere human being, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment?
- P34
God does not show favoritism in His righteous judgment. His people should not assume that they are superior and condemn others for their sins. These verses remind us of the hypocrisy of passing judgment on other people while committing sins ourselves. - P36
The truth is that no one is able to escape God’s judgment. Sometimes we are quick to take advantage of God’s love and patience toward us, but we should actually respond with repentance when we experience His kindness. Instead of being stubborn and unrepentant, we should recognize the grace we have received and persist in doing good for His glory and honor. - P36
We should remember that, despite our rebellion and sinfulness, God made a way for us to receive His forgiveness because of His righteousness.
- P36
The Jews are familiar with God‘s Law, but simply knowing His Law doesnot lead to being declared righteous in His sight and being exempt fromjudgment. Those who know God‘s Law are also judged by that Law, andthey are declared righteous when they obey the Law. - P36
Those who do notknow God‘s Law are still accountable for their actions. They cannot claimignorance or innocence because everyone has a conscience that guides theirmorality. Their conscience acts as a divine law written on their hearts, help-ing them know what is right and wrong. - P36
Therefore,
everyone can understand the gospel; we all know that we need the saving work of Jesus tocleanse us from our sin. - P36
Dear God, You are so merciful. I am immensely grateful that Jesus gave His life for me so that I could be cleansed from my sin and receive Your forgiveness. Help me to never take this grace for granted. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen. - P37
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