Religious

THOUGHTS ABOUT THE PASSAGE:

George Barna does a great deal of research in religious circles. In surveys taken a few years ago (1996 and 1997), he found some amazing facts. Most Americans, including many professing Christians, believe that people are inherently good, and that their primary purpose is to enjoy life as much as possible. 38% believed that it doesn’t matter what religious faith you follow, because they all teach the same lessons.44% believed that all people will experience the same outcome after death, regardless of their religious beliefs.55% believed that if a person is generally good, or does enough good things for others during their life, they will earn a place in heaven. (Martin Wiles - Sermon Central)

Objections raised by the Jews and introduced by Paul:

1. Those who argued that right was wrong. (vv. 1-2)

2. Those who argued that wrong was right. (vv. 3-8)

Paul asks and answers three obvious questions that may be raised in his readers’ minds.

1. What advantage is there in being a Jew? (verses 1 2). He answers by saying there are many advantages, but the main one is that he has in his possession the Word of God. However, even in that privileged position the Jews were still unable to live up to God’s standard. If the Jews had an advantage, think of the advantage most of us have with all the Bibles we have.

2. Will Jewish unbelief cancel God’s faithfulness? (verses 3 4). Some Jews did not believe, or were unfaithful, as evidenced by their sinful conduct, but this in no way affected God’s faithfulness to His Word. In fact it only points out more vividly how God remains faithful, even though every man may be a liar. We can claim this Scripture today as we see Christians in high places falling into sin.

3. Since sin appears to benefit God, how could He turn around and judge sinners for their sin? (verses 5 8). We do not do evil that good may come of it. To even question that God is unfair in condemning sin is to blaspheme the very nature of God. God is just. He will judge men for their sins, and this could not be if sin was foreordained and predetermined.

APPLICATION:

What advantages do I have in being brought up in this country and in my home? What are the advantages of being a Christian and possessing God’s Word?