Romans__2

Scripture  Romans 2:7-8 

To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life.  But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. Observation-What does it say?  The letter of Romans was written by Paul and it was likely written on his third missionary journey.  He wrote the letter to the church in Rome, which was predominantly gentile, with a large minority of Jews.  The letter focuses on a basic gospel message and God’s plan of salvation for all people.  He uses frank language when addressing that all people are broken and in need of the freedom we receive from Christ’s death on the cross.  In chapter two, Paul addresses God’s wrath, which is a consequence of our choice to live in sin.  God’s wrath and judgement often seems juxtaposed to His grace and mercy, though it is an equally important part of his character. Understanding-What does it mean?  Police officers are, to a degree, the bearers of the wrath of law.  As a police officer, I have become used to the idea of being the “bad guy.”  I have been called all types of names, many of which shouldn’t really be repeated.  More times than I can count, I’ve been accused of ruining peoples’ lives by enforcing the law.  I’ve also been accused of upholding the law with prejudice and targeting certain types of people.  Rarely has anyone told me thank you for taking them to jail.   Part of the reason laws are created is to ensure the safety of people in society.  For example, it is against the law to drive above certain speeds in certain areas (i.e. residential areas).  It’s also against the law to drive after having alcoholic drinks, because there is an increased risk of injury to the driver and others on the road.  Therefore, when an officer writes a speeding ticket, or takes someone to jail for DUI, they are acting for the safety of the person who is experiencing the wrath of law. Throughout scripture we read of times where God brings His wrath on the people he loves.  Throughout the Old Testament, the prophets foretold the impending doom of Israel, because they were not living out the laws given to them by God.  After the wrath, when the people of Israel turned back to God, He would pour out his love and favor on them.  The laws given to Israel by God were written for their good, even more than the laws written by man, and yet Israel (and us) still chose to live in opposition of those laws.  God’s wrath works to turn us away from our sins, much like the fear of getting a speeding ticket keeps people from speeding.   Paul later writes that we are all sinners and deserve the wrath of God.  But, Jesus took on that wrath when he died on the cross.  “And if anyone sins, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous; and He Himself is the propitiation for our sins; and not for ours only, but also for those of the whole world.” (1 John 2:1-2)  God’s love for us is so great that he placed the burden of His wrath on Jesus, the burden which we could not bear.
Life Application 

Jesus, thank you for taking on God’s wrath for me.  Even though I deserve death, you have taken that sentence for me.  Help me to look at your discipline as an aspect of your love.  When your word directs me to abstain, help me to know that is your love.    

 

-Tyler Galloway