Scripture to Read: Romans 2:1–2
After describing (in Romans 1) the sinful lifestyles of people who are lost in their sin, in Romans 2:1, God reminds us there is no place for us to pass judgment from a position of arrogance or self-righteousness on the lost. When we judge from a position of arrogance, God tells us that we are living in some of these same sins as those whom we’re self-righteously judging. The actions of the lost, who willingly turn their backs on God, should not lead us to judge but examine our hearts to make sure we are pursuing Christ and His Word. It’s not that we should NOT judge, but we must come alongside those who need Christ and seek to make disciples of Christ. Jesus said clearly in Matthew 7:1–5 that we must judge ourselves before we ever seek to help someone else escape their sin. We may think we don’t commit the sins listed in Romans 1, but our Lord tells us that sin is to “not honor Him as God or give thanks to Him” (Romans 1:21). We have all committed this sin many times in our lives. Therefore, we have no excuse for passing self-righteous judgment. When we examine ourselves, it leads to repentance and confession. Judgment is reserved for God alone (Romans 2:1, James 4:11–12). God will bring His punishment to the unrepentant in His time and way. The Good News for all believers is that God’s punishment/judgment was poured out on Christ on the cross and that forgiveness is found in Christ.
Challenge & Application
· Where have you self-righteously judged someone and how did you reconcile with the Lord and with that person?
· How have you not honored God in your life or not given Him thanks for all He does for you daily?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!