Critical Moralizers
Romans • Sermon • Submitted
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Introduction
Introduction
Turning from the world of shameless immorality (1:18-32), now Paul confronts the world of self-conscious moralist. In other words, the holier than thou crowd. Both groups are guilty of ungodliness and unrighteousness before a holy God. What is the differences between the two camps?
The first camp do things they know to be wrong and approve of those who do the same.
The second camp do things they know to be wrong, yet condemn those who do the same.
In other words, let’s join them or let’s point the finger at them.
“Also He spoke this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, ‘God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.’ And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”” (, NKJV)
What does God say about all of this? Let’s take a look...
God’s Judgment is Inescapable (1-4)
God’s Judgment is Inescapable (1-4)
Paul strikes at the heart of our tendency to be critical of everybody except ourselves.
We act as if there are two sets of rules. One for everybody else and one for us.
However, there is only ONE set of rules that we all must live by. Namely, God’s word.
Freud called this hypocrisy ‘projection’. An act whereby we project our guilt upon others in order to soothe our souls.
“I am not as bad as him or her.”
So, we devise a double standard. A high standard for other people and a comfortably low standard for ourselves.
WE ALL DO THIS!
Listen to Paul’s pointed question:
“And do you think this, O man, you who judge those practicing such things, and doing the same, that you will escape the judgment of God?” (, NKJV)
Key point: We must all stand before the judgment seat of God one day. The difference is not us. The difference is Christ.
God’s Judgment is Righteous (5-11)
God’s Judgment is Righteous (5-11)
The basis of judgment: God “will render to each one according to his deeds.”
The conundrum: Justification is indeed by faith; however, judgment will be according to works.
The presence or absence of saving faith on our hearts will be disclosed by the presence or absence of good works of love on our lives.
“But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” (, NKJV)
Judging others is not one of those works we want to show!
The breakdown:
Our goal: what we seek. Our ultimate goal in life. Seeking our material welfare or God’s kingdom.
Our works: what we do. Our actions in service to others or ourselves. Practicing or not practicing His teachings.
Perseverance or patient continuance is the hallmark of genuine believers.
Contrast self seeking: Greek eritheia, self seeking pursuit of political office by unfair means, selfish ambition.
The act of judging others is self seeking to soothe our own souls.
Our end: where we are going. Eternal life or wrath and anger.
Key point: Those who seek God and persevere in goodness exhibit the fruits of a heart that is saved. Rather, those who are self seeking and follow evil will experience demonstrate God’s wrath already upon them.
“He who believes in the Son has everlasting life; and he who does not believe the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abides on him.”” (, NKJV)
God’s Judgment is Impartial (12-16)
God’s Judgment is Impartial (12-16)
God will be absolutely even-handed in judgment
“For there is no partiality with God.” (, NKJV)
Those who no the law will be judged by it.
Those without the law will be judged for their sinful actions. (20-32) They knew better, yet.
The ground of judgment is works. The rule of judgment is knowledge.
“(for not the hearers of the law are just in the sight of God, but the doers of the law will be justified;” (, NKJV)
Knowledge only points the way. Works demonstrates the heart’s intent.
What matters is obedience, not possession.
Have you ever known a really good person, yet they do not profess belief in God or see a necessity for salvation through Jesus Christ?
Key point: God requires perfection if one wants to be righteous by his or her own works.
Conclusion: God’s Judgment and God’s Law
Conclusion: God’s Judgment and God’s Law
The law is the basis of God’s judgment.
All humans have known something about God and goodness.
All humans have suppressed that knowledge in order to indulge in wickedness.
All humans are guilty and deserve the wrath of God.
The law is the basis of Christian mission (evangelism and social action).
These truth ought to make us more fervent in the great commission.
These truths ought to make us more apt to seek what is right and to do it.
The law is the standard. Jesus is the standard bearer.