Tuesday, January 3rd 2017
Romans 2:12-29
key verse: 13
We must know who we have to be. The Jews thought that simply knowing would suffice. What counts for God is that we practice the law. Paul also talks about true circumcision that is different from a mere title.
1. Only those who practice the law will be justified
For God, it is the same whether a man knows the law or whether he knows it perfectly. What counts is that we practice the law, and God justifies those who do so. That's why he even justifies pagans who don't know the law; their conscience takes on the role of the law. This law is written on the tablet of their heart and it accuses or excuses them. The Jews constructed an appearance based on titles, but their problem was that they led a double life. They glorified themselves through the law, but in reality, they blasphemed the name of God among the Gentiles because of their disobedience.
2. True circumcision
The Jews believed they were righteous because they were circumcised, though their actions were contrary to their appearance. Their hearts were corrupted and they thought and acted like pagans. However, among the pagans, there are those who obey the law without knowing it, as it is written in their conscience, and they follow their conscience. God, who judges all hearts, will bless these pagans and will condemn those who pretend to obey the law because of their circumcision but are in reality disobedient. True circumcision is sincere repentance before God, as well as receiving forgiveness from him.
Prayer: Lord, help me not to commit sin through a double life. Help to not only know the law, but to also practice it. I have learned what true circumcision is. Make me circumcised in heart.
Bottom line: we must practice the law, whether a Jew or a pagan
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