In Romans 2:17-29 Paul challenges the hypocritical Jews who are more concerned about following law than their heart’s condition. Paul’s challenge also applies to today’s Christian. Is your faith religious or relational?
1. (vs. 17) Self-righteous, or truly righteousness? Self-righteousness prides itself in loving good works that benefit one-self, and/or will be seen by others. True-righteousness is concerned with doing right in conduct and in good deeds towards others w/o any expectation of receiving something beneficial in return.
2. (vs 21-23) How do you live your life when no one else is looking at you? Example: Christians are taught that 100% of their finances belong to God. When we don’t give God our tithe, we rob ourselves of trusting God’s provision for everyday life. Let your life be transparent before God and others in the little things.
3. (vs 25-29) Led by the Spirit or by the law? To be circumcised meant that a Jew had been set apart for God’s glory. But Christ followers were called to be submitted to the Spirit continuously, not a one-time act. The Holy Spirit regenerates Himself in us so that we would not fall prey to a faith based in good works, but in God’s transforming power.
Find true righteousness in Christ. Let your public life be a reflection of what God is doing in you private life. Be led by the Spirit. Your relationship with the Lord will influence others on your life’s journey as you find true faith in Jesus.
Pastor Jason Marshall