4Not at all! Let God be true, and every human being a liar. As it is written: "So that you may be proved right when you speak and prevail when you judge."
5But if our unrighteousness brings out God’s righteousness more clearly, what shall we say? That God is unjust in bringing his wrath on us? (I am using a human argument.) - P42
Paul expounds on the advantages of being a Jew and the value of circum-cision. He says that God‘s faithfulness is not invalidated by human unfaith-fulness. Some argue that since human unrighteousness accentuates God‘srighteousness, God should not condemn anyone. However, Paul rejects theidea that the Lord is unjust in bringing wrath upon sinners - P43
Some of Paul’s readers may question the value of Jewish heritage when God saves everyone by grace through faith, but Paul explains that the Jews have the blessing of having been entrusted with the very words of God. As we see in the Old Testament, the Jews were God’s chosen people, and they were also the first group to receive the gospel message. Although some may have been unfaithful, this does not nullify God’s faithfulness. This is an encouragement to us. - P44
We should remain faithful to God, but even if we fail, we can trust that God will remain faithful to us. His love does not waver or change, and He will fulfill every one of the promises He has made. - P44
In these verses, Paul addresses the mistaken claim that the more sin Godforgives, the more appealing and amazing it makes His forgiveness appear,
as though sin actually serves a good purpose. This is obviously not true!
This way of thinking abuses God‘s free gift of grace and takes advantage ofHis mercy.
God‘s kindness is meant to lead us to repentance, not more sin.
- P44
When we realize the extent of God‘s mercy and His willingness to forgive usas we fall far short of His perfect holiness, we should respond with gratitudeand surrender, remembering that we were rescued from death and adoptedinto His family. He gave us His life, and we dedicate ours to Him. Whatwonderful truth!
- P44
Dear God, You have been merciful, patient, and faithful to Your people. - P45
I recognize that the grace and mercy You show me are undeserved, and I accept them freely as gifts that I could never repay. - P45
Help me to never take Your kindness for granted. In Jesus’ name, amen. - P45
God converses with us primarily through His words in Scripture.
We can also use His words to respond to Him.
Use the following guide to pray through this week‘s memory verse.
For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed-a righteousness that is byfaith from first to last, just as it is written: "The righteous will live by faith."
- Romans 1:17 - P45
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