A Privileged Child

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This is a sermon that is part of a series of messages on the book of Romans and it covers Romans 2:17-3:20.

Written Excerpts...

Introduction:

This morning we are returning to our study on the book of Romans and we are going to be looking at the second half of chapter 2 and about two-thirds of chapter three. Before we get started, let me bring us up to date with our progress so far.

After covering Paul’s introductory comments at the beginning of chapter 1, we noticed that the general theme of the letter is stated in verse 17; and that is, the righteousness of God. As the Apostle developed this general topic, he started out by showing his readers how that the righteousness of God is, first of all, demonstrated by the judgment (wrath) of God.

I pointed out in chapter 1:18-32 that the Gentiles were under the judgment of God as Paul describes the general idolatry of the pagans and those who had never received the special revelation of God.

In chapter two, I shared with you how that Paul switched his focus from Gentiles to Jews and pointed out that they were not exempt from the judgment of God either.

In my last sermon we were speaking to you about the judgment of God being…According to truth (see v. 2); according to human conduct (see v. 6); and according to human knowledge (see v. 12).

Today we are going to pick up with verse 17, and continue through chapter 3, verse 20. As you might guess, in order to cover that much “ground,” we will need to skim lightly over some of the verses, while we look more intently at others. Beginning with verse 17 of chapter two, we need to point out the fact that Paul is still addressing his comments toward the Jews and continuing to show that they too are under the judgment of God.

If I could start off by trying to give a modern-day equivalent to the point that Paul seems to be making in these verses, I would simply use the analogy of a child that has had so many privileges that he becomes conceited and downright spoiled.

After doing a limited search on the internet, I came across this article on a website affiliated with the magazine Psychology Today. The title of the article was, “Three Principles to Keep Privileged Kids from Becoming Jerks.” In the article, the author says,

“… one of the unintended consequences of providing so much for your offspring is the risk that they will become entitled, demanding, narcissistic, and smug jerks! To make matters even worse… they may attribute their good fortune and success to their own efforts rather than the fact that they were lucky to be born into a family that had the motivation, interest, and means to provide them with so many helpful advantages.” (Plante, Thomas, http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/do-the-right-thing/201310/three-principles-keep-privileged-kids-becoming-jerks)

I actually think that this brings us close to the understanding that Paul seems to be trying to convey in these verses. He is trying to help the Jewish readers to see that they have been the recipients of special divine privileges and rather than take full advantage of the blessings and privileges, they have squandered those privileges and have simply used them as an excuse to become proud, arrogant and judgmental of others.

So, [following the outline that I have already used in previous messages], let us begin and take a look at God’s Word to understand that God not only judges according to truth, human conduct and human knowledge, but …

iv. God [also] judges according to divine privileges. (2:17-3:1-8)

At various times throughout these verses, Paul uses a popular form of debate by frequently raising questions that might be raised by an opponent, then providing answers to those questions. Some have suggested that the questions raised represent the ideas and thoughts by Paul himself before his dramatic conversion to faith in Christ.

a. The privilege provided by the Law. (2:17-24)

The first thing we notice in the privileges they had received is the benefit of the law.

1. Paul describes several qualities about them that resulted from this privilege. (vv. 17-20)

Their attitude about themselves was one of satisfaction and comfort in their status and their “accomplishments.” They failed to realize that their “accomplishments” were not theirs, but God’s.

2. He challenges them for their hypocrisy. (vv. 21-24)

They failed to recognize that they were often in violation of the law that they rested in and boasted of.

b. The privilege provided by the covenant. (2:25-29)

In these verses Paul switches to the topic of circumcision.

Circumcision was given to Abraham as a “sign” of the covenant that God had established with him. As a “sign,” it was a visible symbol of an invisible grace and privilege. The equivalent sign today that we could compare is baptism, and it could apply to communion and other outward / visible signs that merely represent something that is spiritual and invisible.

It is entirely possible for even Christians today, or anytime, to become so confident in their own performance of certain outward rituals and signs that they fail to maintain a vibrant spiritual relationship with Christ by faith.

c. Greater privilege results in greater condemnation. (3:1-8)

This section is somewhat difficult to put together smoothly. William Greathouse in Beacon Bible Commentary does about the best job of any author I read. This is how he summarizes the "dialog" in verses 1-8.

If the Jew stands under the judgment of God like the Gentiles, what advantage does he have over them? Answer: He possesses special revelation (law) from God.

If this possession has not served it intended purpose (Israel’s faith in the Messiah), does this not annul the faithfulness of God? Answer: Absolutely not.  It rather enhances it.

If God’s faithfulness and grace receives greater attention through human sin, why does He still judge sinners? Answer: Because of His own righteous character (the justice of God).

“The end doesn’t justify the means.” When God saves the sinner and forgives His sin, it does magnify the mercy and grace of God, but that doesn’t bring us to the conclusion that we should sin all the more so that the grace of God can be demonstrated more.

Victory over sin shows His grace just as much as His forgiveness for our failures.

C. The whole world is under the judgment of God. (3:9-20)

i. Probing question is asked. (3:9)

Privilege doesn’t equal merit or worth.

Go back to the statement of the author I quoted near the beginning about privilege kids…  
“To make matters even worse… they may attribute their good fortune and success to their own efforts rather than the fact that they were lucky to be born into a family that had the motivation, interest, and means to provide them with so many helpful advantages.”

God’s choice to grant them special privileges doesn’t mean He loves them more or that they have escaped God’s judgment.

ii. Summary of wickedness is described. (3:10-18)

The condition of the whole world is supported by OT texts.

iii. Condemnation of all is restated. (3:19-20)

The law of God is the standard, but the law cannot justify anyone [it can only condemn].

The law merely provides us knowledge of God’s will and the realization of our own failure to measure up. So, again (as already stated many times before) we are all condemned by the righteous standard of God.

Conclusion:

We have been talking about some of the arrogant and self-satisfied attitudes of the Jews because of their privileges.

We must never forget that we American Christians have been the recipients of many, many privileges as well.

We can never rest on our heritage or our religious “pedigrees” and expect that to be sufficient to satisfy the requirements of God’s law.

We need to ask God to search our hearts to see if our attitudes and motives are right.

Yes, I Mean You!

(To download an Mp3 file of this sermon, click on the title above. To listen now online, click on the play button of the audio player shown.)

This is a sermon based on Romans 2:1-16 and is a continuation of a series of messages on Romans.

Written Excerpts...

Introduction:

We have started a series of sermons on the book of Romans. Today is the 4^th installment in that series. We’ve had three sermons on chapter one and now we are ready to begin chapter two.

If you have been here for the previous messages, you may recall that we pointed out that the entire theme of this letter is presented in 1:16-17: i.e., the Gospel of Jesus Christ which reveals (brings to light, shows us) the righteousness of God.

In last week’s sermon, I tried to point out that the righteousness of God; His holy character; is revealed by his judgment or wrath against sinners. I mentioned that the wrath of God is something that we do not hear much about these days. Everyone wants to only focus on the love of God. But there is no real substance to the gospel if it doesn’t include the “bad news” that we are condemned and abiding under the wrath of God. The “good news” means that God’s wrath has been removed and satisfied through the death and shed blood of Jesus Christ on Calvary.

In the verses that we covered last week (1:18-32), Paul has been speaking primarily about the Gentile population in the world; those who did not have the privileges of receiving the special revelation of God through the prophets. Yet, in spite of this “disadvantage,” they still stand condemned and without excuse because they have sinned against the knowledge that God did provide to them through the general revelation of nature.

Have you ever experienced a time when you heard someone in authority (parent, teacher, law enforcement officer, etc.) bark out some kind of command or order and you look around to see who he/she is talking to. When you discover that the person is looking straight at you, you might get a questioning look on your face as you point to yourself as if to say, “You talking to me?”

At that moment the person says, “Yes, I mean you!”

As I read over the portion of Scripture that we are going to be discussing today, I got this same sense from the text. The Apostle has been explaining in the preceding verses (1:18-32) how God’s judgment is revealed against the pagan world. They are under the judgment and wrath of God because they have not obeyed nor lived up to the basic knowledge of God they had received by simply looking at the creation.

It almost seems like Paul realizes or assumes that there would be Jewish people who would read this letter and say, “Amen. That’s right. You tell ‘em, Paul. Those pagan Gentiles are under the wrath of God.” So immediately, Paul turns his attention to the Jews and points out that they are under the judgment of God as well.

Remember, we’re still talking about the Righteousness of God being revealed in the judgment or wrath of God. (1:17)

As we specifically discuss Paul’s message to the Jewish audience, we want to notice three things about God’s judgment of the Jew: God judges according to truth. God judges according to human conduct. God judges according human knowledge.

Transition:

Let us focus our attention on the first half of chapter two in order to learn three key concepts about the judgment of God.

I. God judges according to truth. (2:1-5)

Beginning with verse 1, we need to point out that there is some disagreement among scholars about whether he is actually speaking to the Jews yet, or if he is speaking to every person, Jew & Gentile, who self-righteously condemns others while excusing their own ungodly conduct. (i.e., “the good moral person”)

If this is the case, then his attention is turned specifically to the Jew in verse 17.

The implied principle here is that normal human behavior tends to “judge ourselves by ourselves.” It is assumed that the guilty party has been condemning others while justifying himself.

v.2 – Paul points out that the remedy to that problem is to remember that God is the final judge of everyone and His judgment is according to truth. He never misses a detail and He never makes a mistake.

“doing same things” – may not be the same exact actions, but the same type of conduct; disobeying the light of truth they had received.

Jesus had something similar to say to the Pharisees in His ministry, “Take the beam out of your own eye before trying to remove the splinter from your brother’s eye.”

v. 3 – Justifying ourselves will not make us exempt from the judgment of God.

v. 4 – If these hypothetical people that he is talking about here are really Jews, then they probably felt as though they were exempt from the judgment of God because of the fact that they were part of the “chosen people of God.” They didn’t realize the fact that God’s act of withholding judgment on them was for the purpose of giving them time to repent for their disobedience.

2 Peter 3:9 (NLT) The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.

v.5 – However, for those who refuse to take advantage of the love, patience and goodness of God, they are storing up judgment.

cf. – Proverbs 29:1 (NKJV) He who is often rebuked, and hardens his neck, Will suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.

So, the first concept of judgment is that God judges according to truth. It will not be based on our own ideas or opinions.

This brings us to the second point in this text.

II. God judges according to human conduct. (2:6-11)

v. 6 – He will render to every man according to his deeds.

This is a simple statement of the fact. (It is a word-for-word quote from the Greek transl. LXX of Psalm 62:12, which would have been familiar to the Jewish readers.)

Most scholars do not believe that Paul is trying to saying anything here about salvation and eternal destiny being based on works. (This would be completely contrary to other statements made by the Apostle.) However, the fact of the matter is, our actions or deeds demonstrate what is the desire and motive of our hearts, and what is of primary importance to us.

vv. 7-10 – The judgment of God results in only two possibilities:

1. eternal life – which includes “glory,” “honor,” “immortality,” and “peace.” (7,10)

·          “patient continuance” is a requirement

2. indignation and wrath – two similar words. One focuses on the inner quality of God’s nature while the other focuses on the outflow of that quality in divine retribution. (8-9)

·          Self-seeking; disobeys the truth; obeys unrighteousness; does evil

·          “Jew first and the Greek” – probably a hint regarding the privileges one had over the other in receiving the truth of revelation, but will not be of any benefit at the time of judgment; it comes equally to both.

v. 11 – “No partiality (favoritism) with God.” Probably a reference back to the previous verse in which it is affirmed that the rewards and punishments handed out by God are extended to the Jew and the Greek, and it will be without partiality.

There are two primary applications that I think we can make from Paul’s emphasis in these verses regarding human conduct.

a. For non-believers who tend to think that God is going to take all the good and the bad in our lives and kind of put it all on the balance to see if the good outweighs the bad, Paul is saying, no, we will be judged for every thing we do that is disobedient, unrighteous or evil.

b. For Christians who tend to think that once we’re saved it really doesn’t matter what we do or how we live… that thinking gives us the same attitude of privilege that the Jews had acquired. God wants us to know that evil conduct will still be judged.

Finally, let’s move on to learn a third concept regarding the judgment of God as presented by the Apostle.

III. God judges according to human knowledge. (2:12-16)

The whole point that Paul seems to be making in this section of the text is that on the day of judgment, God will factor in the amount of knowledge a person has had.

Paul seems to be emphasizing to the Jewish readers here that God is not going to judge them more favorably just because they have been the recipients and guardians of the law or because they are the covenant people of God. God will require every person, Jew and Gentile, to be accountable according to the amount of light or knowledge they have received.

The person who does not have the law, but has sinned against the light of conscience (law written on hearts), they will be judged by that standard.

The person who has the law and has sinned against the light of revelation will be judged by that standard.

Conclusion:

As we have tried to present the words of the Apostle Paul regarding the righteousness of God, I trust that we have acquired a new sense of appreciation for the holiness of God and have been reminded that each and every one of us will stand before Him some day. We must remember that, just like the Jews Paul is addressing, it is a danger for every person to begin to think that they have special standing and will receive favorable standing because of who we are. We are all going to be held accountable for the truth we’ve heard and for the light we’ve received.

As we recognize that truth and respond, it is so wonderful to know that Jesus Christ has made every provision necessary for the wrath of God to be satisfied and He has given His life so that we can live.

As we celebrate communion this morning, let us remember that His life was surrendered and willing given for ours.

Let us remember that His blood atones for all our sin and makes it possible for us to be forgiven and adopted into the family of God.

The Power of the Gospel

(To download an Mp3 file of this sermon, click on the title above. To listen now online, click on the play button of the audio player shown.)

This is a sermon based on Romans 1:8-17 and is a continuation of a series of messages on Romans.

Written Excerpts...

Text: v. 16 “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek.”

Introduction:

Last week we began a series of messages on the NT book of Romans. We looked at the first seven verses of chapter one as an introduction to the letter. In the message we emphasized the status of the Apostle Paul who presented himself as a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ. And we emphasized the calling Christ gave to the Romans to be saints. Living as a servant of the Lord and striving to live a holy, godly life is the challenge for every professing Christian, not just those of the first century.

Today we are continuing our study by looking at verses 8-17. These verses are also considered part of Paul’s introductory comments at the beginning of the letter. Our main focus for the message today will be verses 16 & 17, where the Apostle talks about the “power of the gospel.” In those verses he speaks about his confidence in the gospel and what it can accomplish in the future for everyone who believes.

In the verses leading up to verse 16, it seems appropriate to say that he speaks about the power of the gospel already at work in the lives of the Christians in Rome.

I. The Gospel is powerfully working in the Roman church. (vv. 8-15)

We’ve already mentioned a theory on how the church was started… visitors to Jerusalem on Pentecost.

A. Their reputation has circulated around the known world. (8)

Indicators of this fact given in Php. 1:12-13; 4:22 regarding how the effects have spread right there in Rome. (Once Paul arrived in Rome as a prisoner, he discovered…)

Philippians 1:12-13 (NKJV) ¹²  But I want you to know, brethren, that the things which happened to me have actually turned out for the furtherance of the gospel, ¹³  so that it has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ;

Philippians 4:22 (NKJV) ²²  All the saints greet you, but especially those who are of Caesar's household.

When God is truly working in any location, the word gets around.

Ills. with reference to Brooklyn Tabernacle; Reash church.

B. Paul wants to visit and assist in their ongoing growth. (9-12)

He assures them of his constant and faithful prayers for them. Part of his prayer content is that he will have the opportunity to visit. There is something natural for true Christian brothers and sisters to want to get together and share stories of God’s grace and see first hand what God is doing.

He wants to visit in order to impart some spiritual gift.

Common gift or supernatural gift? I’m inclined to go along with natural gift (as in, any assistance needed to establish them and bring them to maturity).

cf. 1 Thessalonians 3:10 (NKJV) ¹⁰  night and day praying exceedingly that we may see your face and perfect what is lacking in your faith?

He will benefit from them as much as they will benefit from him.

C. He desires to be effective there as he has been elsewhere. (13-15)

Paul states that he desires to come and “have some fruit” among them just like he has among other Gentiles. Paul has already seen the mighty power of God at work in the other Gentile centers that he has visited. Now, he wants to come to visit them and enjoy the privilege of bearing fruit among them.

He is essentially saying that he desires to be “in the middle” of anyplace that God is at work.

Debtor to – all classes of people. Obligated to bring them the message of the gospel.

(Reasoner) Jabez Bunting said that the barbarianism of some nations is no reason why the Gospel should not be introduced to them, since the Gospel announces a remedy for moral disorder. On the other hand, a high state of civilization is no proof that the Gospel is unnecessary. We are debtors to both.

It is the same sense of obligation that one starving man feels to tell another where he has found food to eat.

He has seen its effectiveness in all other places, so he is ready to see it at work in the very center of culture and political power in the empire.

II. The Gospel is powerfully sufficient for the rest of the world. (v. 16)

It is powerful – dunamis; Not merely a powerful means in God's hands, but in itself a divine energy. (Vincent, Word Studies in the New Testament.)

Powerful in its ability to persuade and to transform. (Coke, in Reasoner)

“for everyone who believes” – Jew first (in order of sequence or chronology, but not in value or importance). God chose the “Jewish people” as His people for the purpose of sending the Messiah into the world; receiving the revelation of God’s redemption and to be the guardian of His revelation for the world.

III. The Gospel is powerfully adequate in its purpose. (16-17)

A. Unto salvation – Salvation is the goal from start to finish.

Salvation is the total scheme and accomplishment of redemption for every person and even for the entire world.

Rom 8 speaks of the whole creation groaning for the fulfillment of God’s redemption.

Romans 8:21 (NKJV) ²¹  because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.

God’s plan for redemption that was formulated before the foundation of the world is 100% adequate for the condition of the world and mankind!

B. To reveal and accomplish the righteousness of God.

(Reasoner) “This refers to God’s character. God’s actions are consistent with the demands of justice.”

His nature is consistent with His standard of good, of purity and justice. It is an all-comprehensive concept that encompasses His wrath upon all sin (see next verse).

C. By faith.

(Reasoner) “…yet faith is the condition of salvation, as well as the result of salvation.”

Conclusion:

Dear friends, the gospel (good news) of Jesus Christ is totally adequate and sufficient to get a “poor lost sinner” saved.

The song writer has penned the words, “Hallelujah, what a Savior who can take a poor lost sinner, lift him from the miry clay and set him free! I will ever tell the story, shouting glory, glory glory! Hallelujah, Jesus ransomed me!”

Let us conclude our worship this morning by singing a wonderful hymn about this salvation:

Jesus Saves

How Bad Is It?

(To download an Mp3 file of this message, click on the title above. To listen now online, click on the play button of the audio player shown.)

This is a message based on Romans 1:18-32 and is a continuation of a series of messages on Romans.

Written Excerpts...

Introduction:

Last Sunday we spoke to you regarding the main theme of Paul’s letter to the Romans as presented in verse 16 – The Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Most of you already know that the word “gospel” means good news. We spoke briefly about the good news that the gospel is the dynamic power of God “unto salvation.” It results in those who are lost, being saved.

Many of you have often heard me say, “In order for the good news to truly sound like good news, we must first understand what the bad news is! And, the bad news is: we’re lost; we’re all under the judgment and wrath of God; we’re all incapable of saving ourselves; etc.

I’ve discovered lately that it is getting more and more unpopular to talk with people about the bad news. Most people don’t want to hear anything about judgment, or being wrong, or anything about the anger or wrath of God. Anyone who tries to speak about it is stereotyped as “intolerant,” “judgmental,” and “spewing hate speech.”

Even church leaders are caving and compromising on the truth because they don’t want to be marked as hateful and intolerant.

For example, I recently finished a book in which the authors were discussing various trends among some pastors and churches these days that have previously considered themselves to be “mainstream evangelicals” but they are abandoning the belief in a God who promises judgment on those who fail to accept Him.

Share short article in AFA Journal about PC (USA) rejecting the hymn, “In Christ Alone” out of hymnal.

For many churches and pastors who had previously held to the doctrines of divine wrath and justice, they are now convinced that those views are not compatible with the concept of God’s love. They believe that speaking of God’s judgment and wrath unnecessarily turns people off and turns them away. Everyone wants to hear of God’s love.

One of the greatest preachers in the early history of our nation was Jonathan Edwards. What sermon is he most remembered for? (“Sinners in the hands of an angry God.”) Edwards, as an evangelist, had plenty of messages regarding the love of God and the mercy of God, but we all think of him and connect him to the sermon about God’s anger and wrath. But there are many preachers today who don’t believe the topic of God’s wrath has any place in the church.

So, as we begin to expound regarding the gospel that Paul is preaching, we will begin where Paul begins: talking about the wrath of God.

In verses 18-32 the Apostle Paul is describing the condition of all humanity and how we got where we are. He is laying the groundwork for the argument that we all are under the judgment of God and we are all without excuse.

Let us take the next several moments to summarize Paul’s message presented in this section.

I. God’s wrath is already evident. (v. 18)

Wrath – based on the biblical description of God’s nature, it is not merely a surface emotion of exploding anger, but a deeper, principled attribute of

Revealed – present tense, indicating current and continuous action.

I’m not completely sure how Paul intends for us to understand that the wrath of God is presently and continuously revealed. However, if we understand it within the context, it seems that he is wanting us to understand that the negative consequences of man’s choices that are described in the following verses are part of the wrath of God.

i.e., God has designed the way the world works to include the fact that when men disobey Him and go their own way, He simply lets them experience the consequences of their actions and choices which are quite painful.

It is also directed toward “all ungodliness and unrighteousness” of men.

(Vincent) Refers to “irreligiousness and immorality.”

Other words some have used, “impiety” towards God and disobedience towards His law. Seems to be referring to an attitude that I would describe as disregard for God and His grace accompanied with an attitude of “I’ll do it my way!”

II. God’s wrath is connected to man’s choices.

A. To “hold” [down] or suppress the truth v. 18

B. To promote their own arrogance, “professing themselves to be wise.” v. 22

C. Changed God’s truth into lies v. 25

D. Did not want the knowledge of God v. 28

E. Practice all kinds of sin and approve the same in others v. 32

III. God’s wrath includes negative consequences.

A. v. 21 – Their foolish heart was darkened

When they rejected the light of the truth that was evident in creation, the light became darkness.

B. v. 24 – God gave them up to uncleanness

Romans 1:24 (NKJV) ²⁴  … in the lusts of their hearts, to dishonor their bodies among themselves

C. v. 26 – God gave them up to vile passions

Romans 1:26-27 (NKJV) ²⁶  … For even their women exchanged the natural use for what is against nature. ²⁷  Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust for one another, men with men committing what is shameful, and receiving in themselves the penalty of their error which was due.

D. v. 28 – God gave them over [up] to a reprobate [debased] mind

Romans 1:28-31 (NKJV) ²⁸  … to do those things which are not fitting; ²⁹  being filled with all unrighteousness, sexual immorality, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, evil-mindedness; they are whisperers, ³⁰  backbiters, haters of God, violent, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, ³¹  undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, unforgiving, unmerciful

This list of behaviors and conduct just reminds me of a list given in the book of Proverbs:

Proverbs 6:16-19 (NKJV) ¹⁶  These six things the LORD hates, Yes, seven are an abomination to Him: ¹⁷  A proud look, A lying tongue, Hands that shed innocent blood, ¹⁸  A heart that devises wicked plans, Feet that are swift in running to evil, ¹⁹  A false witness who speaks lies, And one who sows discord among brethren.

Conclusion:

So, HOW BAD IS IT?

“We are all without excuse.” (v. 20)

It’s a sorry picture. The disobedience and arrogance of men has turned into a sordid story and a pathetically sad condition. Our whole world has been affected and the whole human race is guilty.

Paul will have more to say about the wrath of God in later chapters, but he has laid the foundational truth here in the very early parts of the letter by telling them that all men are condemned and rest under the judgment of God.

John 3:36 (NKJV) ³⁶  He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him."

The coming wrath of God is described in the closing chapters of the Bible.

Over and over we are given warnings: if God did not spare those in ancient times who blatantly disregarded His law and His will, how shall we escape if we neglect God’s salvation? There is no escape!

How does this relate to the gospel? How does this fit in with “good news?” The good news, which we will get into again as we go through Romans, is that Jesus’ death on the cross has satisfied the wrath of God and He accepted our punishment that we deserved.

Servants and Saints

(To download an Mp3 file of this message, click on the title above. To listen now online, click the play button on the audio player shown.)

This is the first message in a series of messages on the book of Romans. This message is based on verses 1-7 of Romans 1.

Written Excerpts...

Introduction:

Quite a few weeks ago I began to feel impressed by the Spirit of God to start a new sermon series. I have been feeling led to start a series that will follow through an entire book of the New Testament. The Bible book that I have chosen to study with you is the book of Romans. This is considered by most Bible scholars to be the most thorough presentation of the gospel in all of the NT books.

Let’s get started by talking a little bit about some background information regarding the author and the audience.

I. Background Information

A. Author

The author of this letter is the man who had formerly been known as Saul of Tarsus and later had his name changed to Paul. Some have stated that Saul was his Hebrew name, while Paul (lit. Paulus) was his Roman (Latin) name.

He is believed to have written this letter while in the city of Corinth during his 3^rd missionary journey. At the end of the letter (16:23) he sends greetings from Gaius and Erastus, both of whom lived in Corinth.

The time of the letter is generally considered to be approximately 55-57 A.D. So you can see that this letter is definitely written during the early development of the Christian church.

We’ll have more to say about Paul in a few minutes as we begin to look at the text.

B. Audience (Recipients)

The Christian believers in Rome. Mix between Jew and Gentile.

(Reasoner) The population of Rome has been estimated as between one and four million. There were probably twenty to thirty thousand Jews living in Rome during this time period. [Church historian] Philip Schaff supposes, “The first tidings of the gospel were brought to Rome soon after the birthday of the church by witnesses of the pentecostal miracle in Jerusalem.” According to Acts 2:10-11 there were visitors from Rome in Jerusalem at Pentecost.

This was a church that he did not initiate, but he intended to visit them in the future to “impart some spiritual gift” with the result that they “might be established.” (v. 11)

Some believe that the purpose of this letter was to provide a thorough presentation and explanation of the gospel in order to “lay the groundwork and establish a “beachhead” for the expansion of the Kingdom farther west into Spain.” (15:24)

Romans was not the first or earliest of Paul’s letters, but it is believed that it comes first in the NT because of it’s perceived importance in relation to all his letters.

Having considered a few brief facts concerning the background of this letter, let us begin to examine its content. We’ll begin by looking at Paul’s own introductory remarks to open his letter. Today, I want us to specifically notice verses 1-7.

II. Paul Introduces Himself (1:1)

A. A Servant (Slave)

(Reasoner) Paul humbly identifies himself as a servant or slave of Christ Jesus. Doulos is from the Greek verb “to bind” and indicates unconditional commitment to God.

(The IVP Bible Background Commentary – New Testament) A slave of someone in high position had more status, authority and freedom than a free commoner; the emperor’s slaves were some of the highest-ranking people in the empire, as the Roman Christians would know…. 

B. Called An Apostle

General definition is “commissioned messenger.” Specific meaning refers to the vocation/ministry of planting the gospel and initiating the formation of groups of believers. Paul clearly includes himself in with all the other apostles (disciples) of the Lord who had personally been with Jesus and received His commission to go. He too had personally seen Jesus on the Damascus road and had been sent out by the Lord.

(Reasoner) John Stott observed that while the term slave is a title of great humility, apostle is a title of great authority.

(The IVP Bible Background Commentary – New Testament) Paul, who had once been a… commissioned messenger (apostle) of the high priest (Acts 9:2), was now a representative for God.

C. Separated

Writers tell us that there may be some intentional play on words here by the Apostle.

He had been a “Pharisee;” a strict teacher of the law. The name “Pharisee” literally carried the meaning of “separatists.” Once he had belonged to the sect that considered themselves separated from the “Gentiles” to the select people of God. Now he declares that he is separated apart from the usual understanding of the Jewish law and unto the gospel of God.

Now, rather than being separated from the Gentiles, he is separated to the Gentiles. (Reasoner)

III. Paul Introduces His Message (1:2-6)

The message of the Apostle is “the gospel of God.”

A. It is a message founded on the Holy Scriptures. (v. 2)

B. It is a message about Jesus Christ our Lord. (v. 3-4)

“Made of the seed of David” (KJV) – referring to physical birth and genealogical connection to King David = Messiah.

“Declared to be the Son of God” –

(Reasoner) “…his divine nature was not fully manifested until after his resurrection. This comment, taken from John Wesley, should not be interpreted as meaning that Jesus became deity at his resurrection, as the early Adoptionist heresy had taught. Instead, the resurrection declared, delineated, and powerfully confirmed his divine nature. Richard Watson observed, “horizo – [declared] signifies to fix limits, and mark boundaries; and hence it is used for showing things to be what they really are.”

Now, Paul is clearly setting forth a doctrinal mystery that Jesus is both human and divine; fully man and fully God (as later described in the creeds of the church). The core of the message is Jesus. The central truth of the gospel is Jesus. But, it is not just any Jesus, fashioned after our own imagination. It is a specific person with specific human and divine natures.

Theology may be boring to some, and it may be difficult for us all to understand, but the simple fact of the matter is this: a Jesus that is not human cannot save us; neither can a Jesus that is only human.

C. It is a message He is commissioned to spread. (v.5-6)

“…we have received grace and apostleship…”

Paul, like all of us, certainly deserved judgment and condemnation, but he received GRACE: underserved favor and blessings from God.

The grace & apostleship comes (originates) from Christ, resulting in obedience, to the faith, for all people (all nations), which includes his audience (Romans).

They too are called by Jesus Christ. It is a calling from disobedience to obedience, from darkness to light, from self-centeredness to surrender and submission, from ungodliness to holiness.

IV. Paul Extends Formal Salutation (1:7)

“To all who are in Rome, beloved of God, called to be saints: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

They are the recipients of this treatise.

They are loved by God.

They are called to be holy.

They are extended blessings of grace and peace.

Conclusion:

We are just getting started into a wonderful letter that helps us understand the whole scheme of salvation that God designed and provided. We have learned some important truths about the author and the recipients.

There are many ways that we too can identify with both of these. Everyone one of us here today fall into one of two groups: a) those who need salvation; and b) those who have already experienced salvation by faith in Jesus Christ. We have received the abundant grace of God when we deserved judgment and condemnation. We have the privilege of telling others about this wonderful gospel and grace that we have so graciously received. We, like Paul, are called to be servants of the most high God. We, like the Romans are called to be saints. Let us live up to these high callings.

Let us close our service today by singing an old hymn:

“Take Time to Be Holy”

Who's Holding Who?

(To download an Mp3 file of this sermon, click on the title above. To listen now online, click the play button of the audio player shown above.)

This is a sermon used for "Grandparents Day" to emphasize the promises of God to hold His people unto old age.

Written Excerpts...

Isaiah 46:4 (NKJV) ⁴  Even to your old age, I am He, And even to gray hairs I will carry you! I have made, and I will bear; Even I will carry, and will deliver you.

Introduction:

I’ve already mentioned that today is celebrated as “Grandparents Day” in the U.S. One thing that grandchildren have always associated with grandparents is “old age,” even though we grandparents know that isn’t really true!

When is old age anyway? Being “old” is relative. I am sure that all of us can remember those days when we thought, “Wow, 40 years old sure seems old.” I specifically remember a time when I thought that any person who could remember things that happened 30 years ago must be pretty old. Now, I’m already in the category of people who can remember stuff that happened 50 years ago! And I’M NOT OLD YET!

I look at some of you younger people here today and chuckle to myself, because when I was your age, I used to think that someone my age was pretty old. But my word to you is this, “Don’t laugh, cause your day is coming! You’re older now than you were last year, and that is just how it happens to all of us!”

I have chosen the text in Isaiah for today’s sermon because of the reference to “old age” and I felt that it would be a relevant topic on Grandparents Day.

There are a couple of observations I want to point out as we introduce the context of our Scripture.

1. I want to acknowledge first of all that this text in verse 4 is not primarily speaking about old people, even though that is the analogy that is presented by the prophet.

If you will notice, the Lord is speaking to the entire “house of Jacob/Israel,” or, more specifically, the nation of Judah. Nations don’t get gray hair, or acquire “old age” per se. God is using figurative language here and making an analogy regarding His treatment of them as if they were individual people living long lives.

However, it is appropriate for us to take what God is saying to a nation and make spiritual applications to individuals who trust in God and believe in His Word.

2. The message of this chapter is a message of impending doom for Babylon from Cyrus, the “bird of prey” from the east. It appears that God is sending a message of comfort and hope to the remnant of the faithful in Judah in the midst of a prediction of coming destruction for their enemies.

The interesting point is that Babylon’s destruction will be coming after Judah’s destruction because of their own unfaithfulness to God.

Transition:

Let us now turn our attention to the message that God is providing to His own people and notice a few prominent facts.

I. God is the one that had “carried them” from the past into the present. (v. 3b, 4b)

“… Who have been upheld by Me from birth, Who have been carried from the womb: ⁴… I have made, and I will bear; Even I will carry, and will deliver you.”

The Lord is reminding them that He is the one who was responsible for bringing them into existence and for carrying them and caring for them up to the present.

Their very existence is owed to Him.

You know, the nation of Judah undoubtedly had the feeling from time to time that they had been the masters of their own destiny. We know from biblical history that there were times when the nation became arrogant and proud. But God is reminding them that their very existence is due to His faithfulness.

It is good for us to remember the same thing. Our very life depends on the faithfulness of God and the grace of God. The only reason we have made it to the point we are today is because of the goodness and the grace of God.

II. God is the one that will carry them and deliver them in the future. (v. 4)

“Even to your old age, I am He, And even to gray hairs I will carry you! I have made, and I will bear; Even I will carry, and will deliver you.”

The Lord seems to be saying to the people of Judah, because of my faithfulness in the past, you can count on Me for the future. “I will continue to carry you right up to old age and gray hairs. I will bear you, I will carry you and I will deliver you.”

“I am He” – a very similar reference to the name God gave to Moses back in Exodus. “I am who I am.”

Cf. v. 9 – I am God… I am God… (El, and Elohim)

(Keil and Delitzsch) An earnest and thoughtful study of history would show them that Jehovah alone was El, the absolutely Mighty One, and ʾElōhīm, the Being who united in Himself all divine majesty by which reverence was evoked. (Commentary on the Old Testament – Volume 7: Isaiah.)

Dear friends, God is not only the One who got us to this point, but He is the One that is going to get us to our destination. He will bear us through the trials and carry us when we have no strength of our own. He will deliver us from every enemy.

III. God stands alone as unique in comparison to the false gods of the heathen. (v. 5)

"To whom will you liken Me, and make Me equal And compare Me, that we should be alike?”

A. False gods are made by man and carried by man.

v. 6 describes the process of giving gold and silver to the silversmith in order to mold or fashion an idol – A truly man-made god.

v.1 describes the gods of the Babylonians being carried by man and beast and weighing them down.

v. 7 describes the man-made gods being carried and carefully placed in position from which it never moves; can’t hear when people cry out to it and can’t save or deliver.

In modern American culture, people are not molding gold and silver idols so much, but they certainly are creating a host of other gods for their own pleasure and their own temporary comfort. There are plenty of other material or man-made things that people are relying on and trusting in for security and safety and deliverance.

“Some trust in chariots; we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” (Psalms) Made into a praise chorus by Steve Green (I believe.)

B. The true God made man and carries him.

See verses 3 & 4 again.

C. Other attributes of the true God.

v. 9 – He stands alone in all His attributes. There is no other god among the heathen nations than can even compare to Him.

v. 10 – He knows the end from the beginning and does what pleases Himself (matches His own nature).

v. 11 – He superintends the affairs of nations

v. 12-13 – Even when He must bring righteous judgment against His own people because of their rebellion and sin, He plans and carries out redemption and salvation for those who will trust in Him.

Conclusion:

It doesn’t matter if you’re a grandparent, a senior saint, or a “young whipper-snapper,” God will be all you need in every stage of life.

Follow closely in faith and obedience and you will discover that “The Way of the Cross Leads Home” – p. 697

Bringing Children to Jesus

(To download an mp3 file of this sermon, click on the title above. To listen now online, click on the play button of the audio player shown above.)

This is a sermon that was used in a service for conducting a baby dedication.

Written Excerpts...

Bringing Children to Jesus

Luke 18:15 (NKJV) Then they also brought infants to Him that He might touch them; but when the disciples saw it, they rebuked them.

Introduction:

Today we have had the privilege of dedicating two small children to the Lord; asking for God’s blessing and direction upon their lives and upon their parents. These two babies are so little and innocent today, but time will pass rapidly and it won’t be long before these parents may very well be feeling the same way as some other parents I read about.

On the first day of school, a first grader handed his teacher a note from his mother. The note read, "The opinions expressed by this child are not necessarily those of his parents." http://www.superkids.com/aweb/pages/humor/031703.shtml

I also read a cute list describing the kinds of things children learn. I think you will agree after hearing this list and recognizing its accuracy, that children are quick to learn from life’s experiences.

Truths Children Learn

1) No matter how hard you try, you can't baptize cats.

2) When your mom is mad at your dad, don't let her brush your hair.

3) If your sister hits you, don't hit her back. They always catch the second person.

4) Never ask your 3-year old brother to hold a tomato.

5) You can't trust dogs to watch your food.

6) Reading what people write on desks can teach you a lot.

7) Don't sneeze when someone is cutting your hair.

8) Puppies still have bad breath even after eating a tic tac.

9) Never hold a Dustbuster and a cat at the same time.

10) School lunches stick to the wall.

11) You can't hide a piece of broccoli in a glass of milk.

12) Don't wear polka-dot underwear under white shorts.

13) The best place to be when you are sad is in Grandma's lap.

http://jokes.christiansunite.com/Kids/Truths_Children_Learn.shtml

Well, the reason we promote and celebrate the dedication of children is because we believe in the importance of making commitments to God in various areas of life. We believe it is essential for moms and dads to realize the sober responsibility they have in bringing their children up in the “nurture and admonition of the Lord.”

Not too long ago I had the opportunity to counsel a couple with a small child. I figured that I may never again get the opportunity to tell the father like it is, so I “laid it on the line.” I informed him how important it was for him to bring his child up to know God. I mentioned the solemn fact that most children have a concept of God that mirrors their earthly father. I also urged him to remember that he had a large influence regarding the eternal destiny of his child. I fear that my counsel fell on deaf ears.

So, for just a short time this morning, I would like to take a look at a Scripture passage to further examine this matter of bringing our children to Jesus, as a follow-up to the sacred ceremony that we conducted just a few minutes ago.

The passage of Scripture we are looking at briefly this morning is found in Luke 18:15. There are similar accounts recorded in Matthew 19 and Mark 10. In all of these references it tells us that the people “brought their little children to Jesus so that he might lay his hands on them.”

For the next few moments I want to consider two questions that I think naturally arise from this account. 1. Why do we bring our children to Jesus? 2. How do we bring our children to Jesus?

The first question we are going to consider is:

1. Why do we bring our children to Jesus?

Several authors I consulted on these passages of Scripture seem to agree that it was a common practice among the Jews for parents, and especially mothers, to bring their small children to the popular Rabbis and seek to have them pronounce blessings on their children.

It was a common custom among the Jews to lay their hands on the heads of those whom they blessed, or for whom they prayed. This seems to have been done by way of dedication or consecration to God—the person being considered as the sacred property of God ever after. (Adam Clarke's Commentary)

In Matt. 19, it says that they asked Jesus to touch them and pray.

Here in Mark’s gospel, it states that Jesus took them up in his arms and blessed them.

This seems to carry on the tradition mentioned in the OT. For example, Genesis 48:14-15 (NKJV) ¹⁴  Then Israel stretched out his right hand and laid it on Ephraim's head, who was the younger, and his left hand on Manasseh's head, guiding his hands knowingly, for Manasseh was the firstborn. And he blessed Joseph, and said….

Isaiah 44:3 (NKJV) ³  For I will pour water on him who is thirsty, And floods on the dry ground; I will pour My Spirit on your descendants, And My blessing on your offspring…

We also bring our children to Jesus because we desire the Lord’s blessing upon the lives of our children.

For us today, there is an additional reason why we bring our children to Jesus.

Since we have the benefit of having God’s written revelation, we understand from Scripture that children are naturally prone to grow away from God as they get older. In order to prevent this we must “bring them to Jesus” as often as we can. Everyone one of us, the Bible teaches, are born with a sin nature that causes us to be naturally inclined to selfish desires and even resistance toward God. Therefore we all need to be “brought to Jesus” and the sooner, the better.

Some people do not like to think about this and may not even believe it, but we all need to be brought to Jesus. The implications in the Scriptures are: If we are just left to ourselves, we naturally choose to go against God’s will and design and we always seek our own selfish agenda. So parents, we all need to bring our children to Jesus.

2. How do we bring our children to Jesus?

In this Bible story, when Jesus walked this earth in a physical body, it was pretty simple. They just took their babies and their children and went to a place where they could meet Jesus.

Today, we must understand this concept in spiritual terms.

A. We bring our children to the Lord by deliberate, meaningful ceremonies such as this one we have done today.

B. We bring our children to the Lord by means of fervent, intercessory prayer.

C. We bring our children to the Lord by getting them into all kinds of spiritual influences such as: Worship; Christian Ed (Sunday School); daily teaching “line upon line; precept upon precept.”

D. We bring our children to the Lord by living a consistent testimony before them.

I’ve read various articles and comments by authors who have tried to define the reasons why children tend to turn away from the Lord as they get older. I’m sure that there are a number of factors, but I’m fairly confident that one of the main factors involves parents who “preach” one thing to their kids, but they live exactly opposite to what they say.

I hope that each of us will have a renewed commitment to bring our children to Jesus.