June 16, 2010
Romans 2
Pastor Derek Floyd
My wife and I wrote a song a few years ago and the chorus went as follows: “The ground is level at the foot of the cross, pride and position I humbly lay down, worldly possessions I count them but loss, for the ground is level at the foot of the cross.”
I thought about this song – especially the words “pride and position I humbly lay down” - when I read Paul’s stinging rebuke in Romans 2 of those who wanted to see others punished for their sins, yet were doing the same things in secret. Who are we to judge others? There’s an old saying that when we point a finger in condemnation, there are three more pointing directly back at us.
Whenever we find ourselves feeling justifiably angry over someone’s failure, we should be very careful. A child of God has been given the authority to speak out against that which would grieve the Holy Spirit but we must do so in a spirit of humility. We are God’s agents of love, compassion, forgiveness and mercy. In some cases, we are led to rebuke and correct for the purposes of renewed wholeness and restoration.
If we claim to be God’s people, our lives should reflect what God is like. What do people think about God as they watch your life? I love verse 4 (NLT): “Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin?” There you have it: our blueprint for helping and encouraging one another.
Judgment and vengeance belong to the Lord. His Word says so. His are truly the best hands to handle that.
Did you know? Pastor Derek was asked to try out for the Gaither Vocal Band upon Mark Lowry’s departure…but he never departed!
