Inexcusable

…who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them. Therefore you are inexcusable, O man, whoever you are who judge, for in whatever you judge another you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things. 

Romans 1:32-2:1

 

When Paul writes to lay the groundwork for justification by faith, no one gets off without indictment. Between verses 18 and 31 of Romans 1, there is a detailed list of humanity’s evildoing. One of the most chilling phrases is, ‘God gave them up.’ Our text is his summary statement and his transition toward the religious person who roundly condemns all the behaviors listed in the first chapter. Paul finishes chapter one by saying that those who do the evil he describes also approve of others who do similarly. He then turns to the scrupulously religious person and says, ‘you are inexcusable.’ He points out that in condemning the evildoers of chapter 1, that person condemns themselves because they are practicing the same things. This is not good news for the religionist. Whereas the religionists think they are without culpability, Paul goes to great lengths in the second chapter to prove they are in every way worthy of condemnation, as much as those they despise. Paul is paving the way for his presentation of Christ. He is leveling the ground to build upon Christ as his sure foundation. As important as it is for us to grasp the first chapter and the implications of it, it is even more important to recognize everyone, religious or irreligious needs Christ.  

Our Holy and Sovereign God, 
we rejoice that You have made Your truth abundantly clear. 
We praise You that because You have, 
we understand our need of Christ. 

Tomm Tice
Where the Bush is Burning