Faith without religion.
Romans 2:12-16: Universality of Sin and God’s Impartial Judgment
In a recent teaching, we delved into the profound insights of Romans 2:12-16, where Paul addresses the universality of sin and the impartiality of God’s judgment. Paul emphasizes that God is not a respecter of persons, meaning that both Jews and Gentiles are accountable for their actions, whether they have the Law of Moses or the law written in their hearts.
Paul explains that those who sin without the law will perish without it, while those who sin under the law will be judged by it. This highlights the universal nature of sin and the need for redemption. The Gentiles, though not having the Law of Moses, have a law within themselves, written on their hearts, which their conscience and thoughts bear witness to. This internal law serves as a guide and a judge, revealing their moral standing.
The discussion also touches on the concept of antinomianism, which suggests that under the gospel of grace, moral law is unnecessary for salvation. However, Paul clarifies that true Christians are not lawless; instead, they embody the new commandment of love, written on their hearts by the Spirit.
Ultimately, Paul points out that all are condemned under the law, whether written in stone or on the heart, emphasizing the need for salvation through Jesus Christ. This teaching reminds us that God’s judgment is based on the secrets of the heart, and it is through Christ that we find redemption and justification. As we continue to explore these themes, we are encouraged to reflect on our own lives and the law of love that guides us.
