Today’s Reading from the One Year Bible for July 20th, 2009 – 2 Chronicles 1-3 & Romans 6

2 Chronicles 1:10 (HCSB)

[10]  Now, grant me wisdom and knowledge so that I may lead these people, for who can judge this great people of Yours?”

2Ch 1:10 Wisdom is the ability to make good decisions based on proper discernment and judgment. Knowledge, in this verse, refers to the practical know-how necessary for handling everyday matters. Solomon used his wisdom and knowledge not only to build the Temple from his father’s plans but also to put the nation on firm economic footing. Cross References: 2 Chronicles 1:10—2Sa 5:2; 1Ki 3:9

2 Chronicles 1:11,12 (HCSB)

[11]  God said to Solomon, “Because this was in your heart, and you have not requested riches, wealth, or glory, or for the life of those who hate you, and you have not even requested long life, but you have requested for yourself wisdom and knowledge that you may judge My people over whom I have made you king, [12]  wisdom and knowledge are given to you. I will also give you riches, wealth, and glory, such that it was not like this for the kings who were before you, nor will it be like this for those after you.”

2Ch 1:11,12 Solomon could have had anything, but he asked for wisdom to rule the nation. Because God approved of the way Solomon ordered his priorities, he gave Solomon wealth, riches, and honor as well. Jesus also spoke about priorities. He said that when we put God first, everything we really need will be given to us as well (Mt 6:33). This does not guarantee that we will be wealthy and famous like Solomon, but it means that when we put God first, the wisdom he gives will enable us to have richly rewarding lives. When we have a purpose for living and learn to be content with what we have, we have greater wealth than we could ever imagine. Cross References: 2 Chronicles 1:11—1Ki 3:11 2 Chronicles 1:12—1Ch 29:25; 2Ch 9:22

2 Chronicles 2:1 (HCSB)

Solomon’s Letter to Hiram

[2:1]  Solomon decided to build a temple for the name of the LORD and a royal palace for himself,

2Ch 2:1 David had wanted to build a Temple for God (2Sa 7). God denied his request because David had been a warrior, but God said that David’s son Solomon would build the Temple. God allowed David to make the plans and preparations for the Temple (1Ch 23-26; 28:11-19). David bought the land (2Sa 24:18-25; 1Ch 22:1), gathered most of the construction materials (1Ch 22:14-16), and received the plans from God (1Ch 28:11,12,19). It was Solomon’s responsibility to make the plans a reality. His job was made easier by his father’s exhaustive preparations. God’s work can be moved forward when the older generation paves the way for the younger. Cross References: 2 Chronicles 2:1—1Ki 5:5

2 Chronicles 2:5,6 (HCSB)

[5]  The temple that I am building will be great, for our God is greater than any of the gods. [6]  But who is able to build a temple for Him, since even heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain Him? * Who am I then that I should build a house for Him except as a place to burn incense before Him?

2Ch 2:5,6 We should try our best to build beautiful and helpful places of worship to be a testimony and credit to God. In so doing, however, we must remember that God cannot be contained in our building or beautiful setting. He is far greater than any building, so we must focus our praise on him and not merely on the place of worship. Cross References: 2 Chronicles 2:5—Ex 15:11; 1Ch 16:25 2 Chronicles 2:6—1Ki 8:27; 2Ch 6:18

2 Chronicles 2:7 (HCSB)

[7]  Therefore, send me a craftsman who is skilled in engraving to work with gold, silver, bronze, and iron, and with purple, crimson, and blue yarn. He will work with the craftsmen who are with me in Judah and Jerusalem, appointed by my father David.

2Ch 2:7 Why use foreign craftsmen? The Israelites had great knowledge of agriculture but knew little about metalworking. So they found people who were experts in this area. It is not a sin to obtain secular expertise for God’s work. He distributes talents as he chooses, and he often decides to give skill to non-Christians. When we hire secular contractors to build or repair our church buildings, we are recognizing that God gives gifts liberally. We may also be gaining an opportunity to tell the workers about God. Cross References: 2 Chronicles 2:7—Ex 31:3-5; 1Ch 22:15; 2Ch 2:13-15

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Romans 6:1,2 (HCSB)

The New Life in Christ

[6:1]  What should we say then? Should we continue in sin in order that grace may multiply? [2]  Absolutely not! How can we who died to sin still live in it?

Ro 6:1-2 Paul realized that his statements about God’s wonderful kindness to sinners could be interpreted to suggest that people ought to keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more kindness and forgiveness. “If God loves to forgive, why not give him more to forgive?” would be their erroneous reasoning. Paul answers with an emphatic, “Of course not!” The availability of God’s mercy must not become an excuse for careless living and moral laxness. The idea that someone would claim to believe the gospel while planning to continue in sin is preposterous to Paul. The point of the gospel was not to find an excuse for sin, but to give freedom from sin.

To make his answer clear, Paul introduces a new concept—believers have died to sin. How?

• •In the legal sense, we died in the sight of God’s judgment.
• •In the conversion sense, believing in Christ is dying to sin.
• •In the baptismal sense, that burial implies we have died with Christ.
• •In the moral sense, sinful desires may be present, but they are mortally wounded.
• •In the resurrection sense, we exchange our sinful life for Christ’s resurrection life.

Paul speaks of this death as fact and concludes, therefore, that believers cannot continue to live in it.

Romans 6:3,4 (HCSB)

[3]  Or are you unaware that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into His death? [4]  Therefore we were buried with Him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too may walk in a new way * of life.

Ro 6:3-4 Baptism is a picture of a spiritual truth. In the very early church, baptism followed a person’s decision to trust in Christ (see, for example, Ac 2:41; 8:37; 9:18; 10:48 ), marking these first generation believers as followers of Christ, members of the Christian community. Paul assumes that these Roman believers were baptized at conversion and would vividly recall the experience. Those who believe in Christ are baptized into him and baptized into his death; in other words, they are baptized to become one with Christ Jesus. As he died, we die to our old, sinful lifestyle, and a new life begins. Immersion may have been the form of baptism—that is, new Christians were completely buried momentarily in water. They understood this form of baptism to symbolize being buried with Christ, thus the death and burial of the old way of life. Coming up out of the water symbolized resurrection to new life with Christ, as well as the promise of a future bodily resurrection— as Christ was raised from the dead, so too believers may live new lives.

If we think of our old, sinful life as dead and buried, we have a powerful motive to resist sin. We can consciously choose to treat the desires and temptations of the old nature as if they were dead. Then we can continue to enjoy our wonderful new life with Jesus (see also Ga 3:27; Col 3:1-4 ).

Romans 6:5 (HCSB)

[5]  For if we have been joined with Him in the likeness of His death, we will certainly also be in the likeness of His resurrection.

Ro 6:5 United literally means, “we have become grown together.” Our baptism painlessly acts out the union that Christ painfully made real. God’s plan was that in Christ’s death, believers would also die (to sin and to rebellion against God). Dying to sin is a lifelong process. When we accept Christ and die to our old nature, we begin a life of continually dying to the enticements of the world and living to please the One to whom we belong. Also as Christ was raised, believers also will be raised from death to eternal life with God. What people do with Christ now will greatly influence what happens to them later.

Romans 6:6 (HCSB)

[6]  For we know that our old self was crucified with Him in order that sin’s dominion over the body may be abolished, so that we may no longer be enslaved to sin,

Ro 6:6 The old sinful selves describe believers before they trusted Christ, people who were ruled by sin and rebellion ( 5:10 ). That old self was crucified with Christ —believers have died the same death as Christ when Christ was crucified. Why? This was the only way that sin might lose its power in people’s lives, the only way our sinful nature could be set aside so that God’s nature could live through us.

As a result, believers are no longer slaves to sin. Those who have accepted God’s gracious gift of emancipation will be able to participate fully in a new life of obedience. As slaves to sin, we are set free by Christ before we can begin to live free. The power and penalty of sin died with Christ on the cross. We are no longer slaves to our sinful nature; we can choose to live for Christ.

Romans 6:7,8 (HCSB)

[7]  since a person who has died is freed from sin’s claims. [8]  Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with Him,

Ro 6:7-8 During slavery, freedom was rare except through death. Death brings about a release that cannot be reversed. In the same way, when we died with Christ we were set free from the power of sin. We are not yet sinless, but sin no longer has control over us. With our death to sin, we are free to begin our new life in Christ. This new life in Christ (this side of physical death) is already the beginning of resurrected living. Getting used to this new life requires that believers exchange old habits and patterns for new ones.

Romans 6:9 (HCSB)

[9]  because we know that Christ, having been raised from the dead, no longer dies. Death no longer rules over Him.

Ro 6:9 Jesus experienced physical death and rose from the dead, and he will never die again. His resurrection was a victory over death, so death no longer has any power over him. Paul concluded that dying with Christ, then, ends the power of death over us as well.

Romans 6:10 (HCSB)

[10]  For in that He died, He died to sin once for all; but in that He lives, He lives to God.

Ro 6:10 Christ died once to defeat sin, emphasizing the finality and completeness of Christ’s work. When Christ groaned from the cross, “It is finished!” ( Jn 19:30 ), he knew that the sacrifice was complete, once for all (see Heb 7:27 ). Unlike Christ, we will still fall into sin’s traps now and then; but like Christ who now lives for the glory of God, we can focus on living for God. God’s great plan was to liberate us from sin’s ruling power. Thus our perspectives, attitudes, relationships, and desires will change, in light of the incredible events that have taken place on our behalf—death to sin and the ability to come to God and live for him.

Romans 6:11 (HCSB)

[11]  So, you too consider yourselves dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus.

Ro 6:11 If we have identified with Christ, what is true for him can be true for us. This identification starts in our minds by an act of mental reckoning or accounting. We can consider ourselves dead to sin. In other words, just as a dead body cannot respond to temptations or enticements, neither can we respond to them. Thus we are able to live for the glory of God through Christ Jesus because we have been given new life, a new lifestyle, and the sure promise of eternal life (see also Ep 2:5; Col 2:13 ).

Romans 6:12 (HCSB)

[12]  Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body, so that you obey its desires.

Ro 6:12 If we are dead to sin, how can sin still control us? We have died to sin, but we are constantly being freed from sin. When sin is in control, people have no choice but to give in to its lustful desires because they are its slaves ( 6:6 ). Believers have died to sin, but as long as we live in our mortal bodies, we will have the compulsion to sin. But only because we have died to sin do we have the power to no longer let it control us. We are, in fact, free from our slavery. But each day we must reject our old slave ways.

Romans 6:13 (HCSB)

[13]  And do not offer any parts of it to sin as weapons for unrighteousness. But as those who are alive from the dead, offer yourselves to God, and all the parts of yourselves to God as weapons for righteousness.

Ro 6:13 While we are in our bodies, there will always be the chance that some actions will be sinful or used as a tool to distort our relationship with God or with others. Because our bodies are mortal (decaying and dying), we should not yield to sinful desires and temptations. Why yield to a decaying master? Why offer the parts of our bodies to sin, something to which we have died? Instead, Paul tells believers, give yourselves completely to God and use your whole body as a tool to do what is right. We have a choice. We have been given new life by God; thus, our bodies are to be given to him to use for promoting righteousness. We are to refuse sin and instead be wholly committed to living for God. We make these choices moment by moment.

Romans 6:14 (HCSB)

[14]  For sin will not rule over you, because you are not under law but under grace.

Ro 6:14 Sin cannot and will not ever again be our master because we are no longer subject to the law. What does it mean that we are not under the law?

• •We are not under the law’s demands, as were the people of the Old Testament.
• We are not under curse implied by the impossible standard of the law (see Ga 3:10-14 ).
• •We are not under its system of requirements, the ceremonial laws that had to be meticulously kept.
• •We are not under the fear of failing the just standard of the law.

If believers were still under the law, then the sin would have to be master. By itself, the law produces both the proof and the acute awareness of sin but cannot direct or motivate a person to do what is right. Instead, believers are free by God’s grace because only grace can overcome sin. Only by living in that grace can we defeat the power of sin in our lives. When our lives are under the law alone, sin is our master. But when we live under grace, our master is God.

Freedom to Obey God / 6:15-23

Paul begins this section in almost the same way as the last one. He wants to make sure there is no misunderstanding of the nature of grace. It is not the chance to do anything we want. Rather, it is the opportunity to live the way God wants us to live. Ultimately, there are only two masters: sin and the Lord Jesus Christ. The choice is clear and required. The only rightful master is our Creator!

Romans 6:15 (HCSB)

From Slaves of Sin to Slaves of God

[15]  What then? Should we sin because we are not under law but under grace? Absolutely not!

Ro 6:15 Paul’s wording in verse 14 —that seems to set the law against grace —probably surprised his readers. It would look as though Paul was replacing the law with grace, thus giving people no law and, therefore, freedom to sin. This almost repeats the question in verse 1 , and Paul’s response is the same: Of course not! As the argument develops, however, there is clearly a different matter at stake. In verse 1 , Paul was challenging the crude assumption that sinning will give God the opportunity to exercise more grace. Here, Paul is guarding against the assumption that because sin is no longer our master, we can indulge in sin without fear of being controlled by it. Being under grace and under the mastery of Christ allows us the freedom not to sin. Any attitude that welcomes, rationalizes, or excuses sin is not grace, but slavery to sin itself.

Romans 6:16 (HCSB)

[16]  Do you not know that if you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of that one you obey—either of sin leading to death or of obedience leading to righteousness?

Ro 6:16 All human beings are enslaved. While this idea clashes with our goal of independence, the fact is that we were created for interdependence. Paul is using an “illustration” ( 6:19 ) to make an important spiritual point: You are a slave to whomever or whatever you commit yourself to obey. This means that friendships, goals, employment, citizenship, membership, education, career, debt, and marriage all include aspects of slavery. We should choose our slavery wisely. When sin is our master, we have no power except to do what it bids us, with the end being death. But when we choose to obey God, the one who created us, we become slaves to obedience and will receive God’s approval.

There are only two choices and no middle ground. This is as Jesus said, “No one can serve two masters” ( Mt 6:24 ). To refuse to allow God to be master over your life is to choose slavery to sin. While service to sin leaves us powerless and leads to death, service to God leads to righteousness and eternal life.

Romans 6:17 (HCSB)

[17]  But thank God that, although you used to be slaves of sin, you obeyed from the heart that pattern of teaching you were entrusted to,

Ro 6:17 Before accepting the salvation offered through Christ, all believers were slaves of sin. But now they have a new master because they have obeyed the new teaching from God, referring to the Good News of salvation (see 1Co 11:2; 2Th 2:15; 3:6 ). This message abolished the slavery to sin that they had lived under, and it outlined a new way of living—under grace.

Romans 6:18 (HCSB)

[18]  and having been liberated from sin, you became enslaved to righteousness.

Ro 6:18 It is impossible to be neutral. Every person has a master —either righteousness or sin. A Christian is still able to sin, but he or she is no longer a slave to sin. This person belongs to God. Believers are set free from the control of their evil desires and their selfish habits, free to become enslaved to righteous living. We serve the righteous God who is in the process of transforming us to become more like him so that we can one day share in glorious resurrection to eternal life. That’s not a bad master to have!

Romans 6:19 (HCSB)

[19]  I am using a human analogy because of the weakness of your flesh. For just as you offered the parts of yourselves as slaves to moral impurity, and to greater and greater lawlessness, so now offer them as slaves to righteousness, which results in sanctification.

Ro 6:19 Paul emphasizes that he is using an illustration in case any of his readers fail to understand his meaning. Anyone living in Rome knew about slaves and masters. There were more slaves than citizens in the empire. When people are slaves of impurity and lawlessness, they are held in bondage to a master who seeks their destruction. But to choose to be slaves of righteousness is very different. God does not keep us in his service against our will—rather, we desire to please him in everything we do. Then we are becoming holy, referring to the progressive goal of salvation, our growth into persons who exhibit more and more of the character of Christ in the way we live.

Romans 6:20,21 (HCSB)

[20]  For when you were slaves of sin, you were free from allegiance to righteousness. [21]  And what fruit was produced * then from the things you are now ashamed of? For the end of those things is death.

Ro 6:20-21 The freedom that people experience when they are slaves of sin is the antithesis of genuine freedom. It is such a distortion of the meaning of liberty that it causes people to be glad that they are not concerned with doing what is right. That is ultimately the worst kind of slavery. And the result is that people end up shamed of the things they used to do. Paul was teaching the Roman Christians that it was appropriate for them to feel ashamed of their pre-Christian actions, and Paul was encouraging them to seek the benefits of high moral living now that they served Christ.

Romans 6:22 (HCSB)

[22]  But now, since you have been liberated from sin and become enslaved to God, you have your fruit, which results in sanctification -and the end is eternal life!

Ro 6:22 The benefits are immeasurable for those who are slaves of God and set free from the power of sin. Faith makes us righteous in God’s eyes and challenges us to realize that righteousness in practical living—doing those things that lead to holiness and eternal life. Holiness is gained as a process over our entire life wherein we become more Christlike and set apart for his service; eternal life begins at conversion and, despite the physical death we will inevitably face, continues beyond the grave.

Today’s Memory Verse – Romans 6:23 (HCSB)

[23]  For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Ro 6:23 This result of sin is not just physical death —everyone dies physically, believers and nonbelievers alike. This refers to eternal separation from God in hell. This is the wage that a person receives for his or her rebellion against God. Those in hell will find no comfort in the truth that they have been paid exactly what they earned.

But instead of wages, those who believe receive a free gift from God— eternal life. Eternal life does not mean endless life on earth, but resurrection from death to eternal glory with God. Because eternal life is a gift, we cannot earn or purchase it. It would be foolish for someone to offer to pay for a gift given out of love. To be a gift, it must be given and received freely. A more appropriate response to a loved one who offers a gift is grateful acceptance. Our salvation is a gift of God, not something of our own doing ( Ep 2:8-9 ). He saved us because of his mercy, not because of any righteous acts on our part ( Tit 3:5 ). How much more we should accept with thanksgiving the gift that God has freely given to us.

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Psalms 16:7,8 (HCSB)

[7]  I will praise the LORD who counsels me-
even at night my conscience instructs me.

[8]  I keep the LORD in mind * always.
Because He is at my right hand,
I will not be shaken.

Ps 16:7,8 It is human nature to make our own plans and then ask God to bless them. Instead, we should seek God’s will first. By constantly thinking about the Lord and his way of living, we will gain insights that will help us make right decisions and live the way God desires. Communicating with God allows him to counsel us and give us wisdom.

Ps 16:8  By saying that he "will not be shaken," David was talking about the unique sense of security felt by believers. God does not exempt believers from the day-to-day circumstances of life. Believers and unbelievers alike experience pain, trouble, and failure at times ( Mt 5:45 ). Unbelievers have a sense of hopelessness about life and confusion over their true purpose on earth. Those who seek God, however, can move ahead, confident in knowing what is right in God’s eyes. They know that God will keep them from straying off his chosen path. Cross References: Psalm 16:8 — Ps 27:8; 73:23; 110:5; 123:1-2

Psalms 16:9 (AMP)

[9]  Therefore my heart is glad and my glory [my inner self] rejoices; my body too shall rest and confidently dwell in safety,

Ps 16:9 David’s heart was glad—he had found the secret to joy. True joy is far deeper than happiness; we can feel joy in spite of our deepest troubles. Happiness is temporary because it is based on external circumstances, but joy is lasting because it is based on God’s presence within us. As we contemplate his daily presence, we will find contentment. As we understand the future he has for us, we will experience joy. Don’t base your life on circumstances, but on God.

Psalms 16:10 (NLTSE)

[10]  For you will not leave my soul among the dead

or allow your holy one to rot in the grave.

Ps 16:10 David stated confidently that God would not leave him in the grave. Many people fear death because they can neither control nor understand it. As believers, we can be assured that God will not forget us when we die. He will bring us to life again to live with him forever. This provides real security. For other passages about resurrection, see Job 19:25,26; Isa 26:19; Da 12:2,13; Mk 13:27; 1Co 15:12-58; 1Th 4:13-18; Rev 20:11-21:4. Cross References: Psalm 16:10—Ps 49:15; 86:13. This verse quotes or is quoted in Ac 2:25-28; 13:35

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Today’s Reading from the One Year Bible for July 19th, 2009 – 1 Chronicles 28,29 & Romans 5,6

1 Chronicles 28:8 (HCSB)

[8]  “So now in the sight of all Israel, the assembly of the LORD, and in the hearing of our God, observe and seek after all the commandments of the LORD your God so that you may possess this good land and leave it as an inheritance to your descendants forever.

1Ch 28:8 David told Solomon to be careful to obey every one of God’s commands to ensure Israel’s prosperity and the continuation of David’s descendants upon the throne. It was the king’s solemn duty to study and obey God’s laws. The teachings of Scripture are the keys to security, happiness, and justice, but you’ll never discover them unless you search God’s Word. If we ignore God’s will and neglect his teaching, anything we attempt to build, even if it has God’s name on it, will be headed for collapse. Get to know God’s commands through regular Bible study, and find ways to apply them consistently.

1 Chronicles 28:9 (HCSB)

[9]  “As for you, Solomon my son, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a whole heart and a willing mind, for the LORD searches every heart and understands the intention of every thought. If you seek Him, He will be found by you, but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever. *[2Ch 15:2]

1Ch 28:9 "The LORD sees every heart." Nothing can be hidden from God. He sees and understands everything in our hearts. David found this out the hard way when God sent Nathan to expose David’s sins of adultery and murder (2Sa 12). David told Solomon to be completely open with God and dedicated to him. It makes no sense to try to hide any thoughts or actions from an all-knowing God. This should cause us joy, not fear, because God knows even the worst about us and loves us anyway. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 28:9—1Ki 8:61; 2Ch 15:2; Je 29:13

1 Chronicles 28:20 (HCSB)

[20]  Then David said to his son Solomon, “Be strong and courageous, *[1Ch 22:13; Jos 1:6-7; 2Ch 32:7] and do the work. Don’t be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He won’t leave you or forsake you *[Dt 31:6; Jos 1:5,9] until all the work for the service of the LORD’s house is finished.

1Ch 28:20 David advised Solomon not to be frightened about the size of his task as king and builder of the Temple. Fear can immobilize us. The size of a job, its risks, or the pressure of the situation can cause us to freeze and do nothing. One remedy for fear is found here: Don’t focus on the fear; instead, get to work. Getting started is often the most difficult and frightening part of a job. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 28:20—Jos 1:5; 1Ch 22:13; Heb 13:5

1 Chronicles 29:1 (HCSB)

Contributions for Building the Temple

[29:1]  Then King David said to all the assembly, “My son Solomon—God has chosen him alone—is young and inexperienced. The task is great, for the temple will not be for man, but for the LORD God.

1Ch 29:1 It is possible to be obsessed with a church building to the neglect of the real church—the people of God. But the opposite response, neglecting the church building, is also wrong. David makes this point when he says that the Temple is "for the LORD God himself!" Although we should avoid wasteful extravagance, we must remember that every church building can be a visible witness for God. How can your church building be better used to tell the world about God? Cross References: 1 Chronicles 29:1—1Ch 22:5

1 Chronicles 29:3-5 (HCSB)

[3]  Moreover, because of my delight in the house of my God, I now give my personal treasures of gold and silver for the house of my God over and above all that I’ve provided for the holy house: [4]  100 tons *[ Lit 3,000 talents ; about 113 tons ] of gold (gold of Ophir) and 250 tons *[ Lit 7,000 talents ; about 263 tons ] of refined silver for overlaying the walls of the buildings, [5]  the gold for the gold work and the silver for the silver, for all the work to be done by the craftsmen. Now, who will volunteer to consecrate himself to the LORD today?”

1Ch 29:3-5 David gave from his personal fortune to the Temple. He encouraged others to follow his example, and they willingly did. Both the Tabernacle (Ex 35:5-36:7) and the Temple were built from the voluntary gifts of the people. Like David, we can acknowledge that all we have comes from God (29:14-16). We may not have David’s wealth, but we can develop his willingness to give. It is not what we have that counts with God, but our willingness to give it. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 29:4—1Ki 9:28; 1Ch 22:14

1 Chronicles 29:6-9 (HCSB)

[6]  Then the leaders of the households, the leaders of the tribes of Israel, the commanders of thousands and of hundreds, and the officials in charge of the king’s work gave willingly. [7]  For the service of God’s house they gave 185 tons *[ Lit 5,000 talents ; about 188 tons ] of gold and 10,000 gold drachmas, *[ The drachma , or daric , was a Persian gold coin, first minted by Darius I about 515 B.C.; 10,000 darics weighed about 185 pounds. ] 375 tons *[ Lit 10,000 talents ; about 378 tons ] of silver, 675 tons *[ Lit 18,000 talents ; about 680 tons ] of bronze, and 4,000 tons *[ Lit 100,000 talents ; about 3,750 tons. ] of iron. [8]  Whoever had precious stones gave them to the treasury of the LORD’s house under the care of Jehiel the Gershonite. [9]  Then the people rejoiced because of their leaders’ *[ Lit because they ] willingness to give, for they had given to the LORD with a whole heart. *[1Ch 28:9] King David also rejoiced greatly.

1Ch 29:6-9 These leaders displayed a right attitude toward their money by giving willingly to God’s work. This attitude is described by Paul in 2Co 9:7: "You must each make up your own mind as to how much you should give. Don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. For God loves the person who gives cheerfully." When we are generous because we are thankful, our attitude can inspire others. Give generously to God’s work. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 29:6—1Ch 27:1,25; 28:1 1 Chronicles 29:8—1Ch 23:8 1 Chronicles 29:9—1Ki 8:61; 2Co 9:7

1 Chronicles 29:15 (HCSB)

[15]  For we are foreigners and sojourners in Your presence as were all our ancestors. Our days on earth are like a shadow, without hope.

1Ch 29:15 David contrasts God’s everlasting nature with the fleeting lives of his people. Nothing lasts unless it is rooted in God’s unchanging character. If our most impressive deeds fade to dust before God, where should we place our confidence? Only in a relationship with God can we find anything permanent. His love never fades, and nothing can take it away. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 29:15—Lev 25:23; Job 14:2,10-12 1 Chronicles 29:17—1Ch 28:9

1 Chronicles 29:19 (HCSB)

[19]  Give my son Solomon a whole heart to keep and to carry out all Your commandments, Your decrees, and Your statutes, and to build the temple for which I have made provision.”

1Ch 29:19 "Wholehearted desire to obey" means to be entirely dedicated to God. This is what David wished for Solomon—that he would desire, above all else, to serve God. Do you find it hard to do what God wants, or find it harder to want to do it? God can give you wholehearted devotion. If you believe in Jesus Christ, this is already happening in you. Paul wrote: "For God is working in you, giving you the desire to obey him and the power to do what pleases him" (Phl 2:13). Cross References: 1 Chronicles 29:19—1Ch 28:9; Ps 72:1

1 Chronicles 29:25 (HCSB)

[25]  The LORD highly exalted Solomon in the sight of all Israel and bestowed on him such royal majesty as had not been bestowed on any king over Israel before him.

1Ch 29:25 Solomon surpassed his father’s wealth and splendor. David’s legacy resulted from his vital relationship with the Lord, and he passed his spiritual values on to Solomon. Any money or power we leave to our children is far less valuable than the spiritual legacy we pass on. What spiritual inheritance will your children receive? Cross References: 1 Chronicles 29:25—2Ch 1:1,12

1 Chronicles 29:30 (HCSB)

[30]  along with all his reign, his might, and the incidents that affected him and Israel and all the kingdoms of the surrounding lands.

1Ch 29:30 First Chronicles vividly illustrates the importance of maintaining a relationship with God. The genealogies in chapters 1-9 emphasize the importance of a spiritual heritage. The second part of the book details the life of David. Few men or women in the Bible were as close to God as David was. His daily contact with God increased his capacity to worship and strengthened his desire to build God’s Temple. David’s life shows us the importance of staying close to God—through studying and obeying his Word and communicating with him daily. Second Chronicles, on the other hand, reveals how quickly our lives can deteriorate (spiritually, mentally, and socially) when we fail to stay well grounded in God.

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Romans 5:6 (HCSB)

Those Declared Righteous Are Reconciled

[6]  For while we were still helpless, at the appointed moment, Christ died for the ungodly.

Ro 5:6 God’s plan, from the beginning, was to send his Son to die for us, at just the right time, referring to both the timing in history and the timing in God’s plan (see Ga 4:4 ). In the face of our helplessness, God was fully in control. The events in human history did not determine the plan of salvation; the plan of salvation was designed by God to happen at just the right time. We are saved only because God took the initiative and demonstrated his incredible grace and love by sending his own Son to take the punishment we deserved.

Romans 5:7,8 (HCSB)

[7]  For rarely will someone die for a just person—though for a good person perhaps someone might even dare to die. [8]  But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us!

Ro 5:7-8 The highest expression of human love is when someone gives his or her life so that another person can continue to live. People are able to understand sacrificial love, even though it is rarely practiced. This kind of sacrificial gesture is almost always dependent on a relationship that already exists between the one sacrificing (parent, sibling, spouse, fellow soldier) and the one benefited. Even so, people do not readily die for others. But God’s love stands in stark contrast to even the deepest expression of human love because God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Christ’s death is the highest manifestation of God’s love for us. While we were rebellious and despicable, Christ died for us so that we could come to God, find peace with him, and become heirs of his promises. Christ did not die so that we could be made lovable; Christ died because God already loved us and wanted to bring us close to himself.

Romans 5:9 (HCSB)

[9]  Much more then, since we have now been declared righteous by His blood, we will be saved through Him from wrath.

Ro 5:9 God made us right in his sight through the blood of Christ shed on the cross (see 3:25 ). Because God is holy, he could not accept us by simply disregarding or ignoring our sins. Instead, those sins had to be dealt with. And God did this through the sacrificial death of his Son. Again, this justification is God’s approval, given to us only on the basis of what Christ did. It is an acquittal that sets free all of us who were otherwise hopeless prisoners of sin. If Christ’s blood was shed on our behalf, then his blood will certainly save us from God’s judgment.

Romans 5:10,11 (HCSB)

[10]  For if, while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, then how much more, having been reconciled, will we be saved by His life! [11]  And not only that, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

Ro 5:10-11 We were enemies because we were rebels against God. Because of Christ’s death, we were restored to friendship with God by the death of his Son. Because Christ’s death accomplished this, so his life —his present resurrection life—delivers us from eternal punishment and insures our salvation. Knowing all that God has accomplished should cause us to rejoice. Paul has already told his readers that they should rejoice in sharing God’s glory ( 5:2 ) and in their problems ( 5:3 ). Now he exclaims that they should rejoice in God. We rejoice in God because Christ took our sins upon himself and paid the price for them with his own death, instead of punishing us with the death we deserve. Through faith in his work, we become his friends and are no longer enemies and outcasts.

Adam and Christ Contrasted / 5:12-21

Having linked Jews and Gentiles through Abraham to the promises of God, Paul now shows how the gospel applies to all humankind. Paul made important points by going back to Abraham; but by going back to Adam, he will draw conclusions that affect the fate of every person.

Romans 5:12 (HCSB)

Death through Adam and Life through Christ

[12]  Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, in this way death spread to all men, because all sinned. *[ Or have sinned ]

Ro 5:12 Sin came into the world through one man. Adam sinned against God causing a domino effect: sin entered the entire human race, then sin brought death. Because everyone sinned, then everyone also died ( Ge 2-3 ). Death is the consequence of being under the power of sin. It was not in God’s original plan for human beings to die, but it was the result when sin entered the world. Inevitably, the gift of life we bequeath to our children includes with it the sting of death. All human beings have two characteristics in common: They are sinners, and they will die.

Romans 5:13,14 (HCSB)

[13]  In fact, sin was in the world before the law, but sin is not charged to one’s account when there is no law. [14]  Nevertheless, death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over those who did not sin in the likeness of Adam’s transgression. He is a prototype of the Coming One.

Ro 5:13-14 God’s law was not given until the time of Moses, so the people who lived between Adam and Moses did not have any specific laws to obey or break. But sin that was in the world was the power or force that causes people to act independently of God. All people are under the power of sin, and all people act in rebellion against God. Sin was in the world from the beginning, but it came into sharp focus when the law was given.

Adam disobeyed an explicit commandment of God ( 5:12 ). His descendants who lived prior to the time of Moses could not break any specific laws because there were none. But they still sinned, witnessed by the fact that they all died. Adam’s descendants had sinned with Adam ( 5:12 ). Death is the result of Adam’s sin and ours, even if our sins don’t resemble Adam’s. For thousands of years, the law had not been explicitly given, and yet people died. The law was added ( 5:20 ) to help people see their sinfulness, to show them the seriousness of their offenses, and to drive them to God for mercy and pardon. This was true in Moses’ day and in Paul’s day, and it is still true today. Sin is a deep rupture between who we are and who we were created to be. The law points out our sin and places the responsibility for it squarely on our shoulders, but it offers no remedy.

The contrast between Adam and Christ is that Adam’s one act determined the character of the world; Christ’s one act determined the character of eternity. In modern terminology, we could say that Adam was a flawed prototype, but Christ was the perfect original. Just as Adam was a representative of created humanity, so is Christ the representative of the new, spiritual humanity.

Romans 5:15 (HCSB)

[15]  But the gift is not like the trespass. For if by the one man’s trespass the many died, how much more have the grace of God and the gift overflowed to the many by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ.

Ro 5:15 God’s generous gift of forgiveness through Christ (justification) has a greater but opposite effect than the trespass of Adam and its consequences. Yet in each case, the act of one affected the lives of many. Because of Adam’s sin, death entered the human race, and since then all people have died (with the Bible’s exceptions of Enoch and Elijah). All people will die until the end of this age. Because of Jesus Christ, however, we can trade judgment for forgiveness. We can trade our sin for Jesus’ goodness. Jesus offers us the opportunity to be born into his spiritual family—the family line that begins with forgiveness and leads to eternal life. If we do nothing, we have death through Adam; but if we come to God by faith, we have life through Christ.

Romans 5:16 (HCSB)

[16]  And the gift is not like the one man’s sin, because from one sin came the judgment, resulting in condemnation, but from many trespasses came the gift, resulting in justification. *[ Or acquittal ]

Ro 5:16 God passed judgment on Adam’s one sin of disobedience. As a result, Adam and the entire human race received condemnation. Everyone since Adam has sinned, and yet Christ overcame those many trespasses and brought righteousness to those who accept him, even though they are guilty of many sins. The result of sin is death; the gift of God—his justifying sinners—results in reigning forever with Christ.

Romans 5:17 (HCSB)

[17]  Since by the one man’s trespass, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive the overflow of grace and the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ.

Ro 5:17 By capitulating to sin, Adam caused death to rule over the whole human race. Death is inescapable; it comes to every living thing. We all live close to the valley of the shadow of death. And the reign of death over creation began because of Adam’s sin. However, there is a remedy. Those who receive God’s wonderful, gracious gift of righteousness will live in triumph over sin and death. What a promise this is to those who love Christ! We can reign over sin’s power, over death’s threats, and over Satan’s attacks. Eternal life is ours now and forever. Though this promise has its greatest fulfillment in the future, it also has a significant immediate impact. In Christ, death loses its sting (see 1Co 15:50-57 ). We are still subject to the physical suffering and death brought by sin in the world, but we are free from the eternal spiritual separation that we would experience outside of Christ. Also, in the power and protection of Jesus Christ, we can overcome temptation (see 8:17 for more on our privileged position in Christ).

Romans 5:18 (HCSB)

[18]  So then, as through one trespass there is condemnation for everyone, so also through one righteous act there is life—giving justification *[ Lit is justification of life ] for everyone. [19]  For just as through one man’s disobedience the many were made sinners, so also through the one man’s obedience the many will be made righteous.

Ro 5:18-19 The same statement is made in different words in these two verses. Paul emphasizes the contrasting roles of two single agents, Adam and Christ. Adam’s one sin brought condemnation on the human race; this one person disobeyed God causing all people to become sinners. But Christ’s one act of righteousness, done because he obeyed God, opened the way for all people to be made right in God’s sight and given eternal life.

Romans 5:20 (HCSB)

[20]  The law came along to multiply the trespass. But where sin multiplied, grace multiplied even more,

Ro 5:20 This statement is certainly not what Paul’s Jewish readers expected to hear. The law was given so that all people could see how sinful they were. Paul is winding up the argument he has been carrying on through the first five chapters of his letter. The purpose of the law for his own people, the Jews, had been to make them aware of their need for salvation. Sin was present from Adam, but the giving of the law was like having a huge spotlight turned on—the sinfulness of people became all the more defined. The solution to sin was not law, but grace. No matter how much people sin, God’s wonderful kindness is greater. When our awareness of sin increases, we need to ask God to help us see that his grace is always greater in its capacity to forgive than our capacity to sin.

Romans 5:21 (HCSB)

[21]  so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace will reign through righteousness, resulting in eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Ro 5:21 Our age is characterized by sin and inevitable death; but the age to come will be characterized by grace, righteousness, and eternal life. It is common to call the ultimate struggle that is going on in the universe “the conflict between good and evil.” Paul was picturing here the outcome of the war between the Kingdom of grace and the kingdom of sin. Until Christ, the war appeared to be decided, because sin ruled over all people. But Christ’s death and resurrection provided the decisive victory by which God’s wonderful kindness rules. Under the reign of grace, a right standing is declared that will bring eternal life.

This ends the first section of Paul’s letter and his explanation of the law and its relation to salvation. But the law is not set aside as old and worthless. Paul will explain, in coming chapters, the role of the law for believers.

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Psalms 15:3,4 (NLTSE)

[3]  Those who refuse to gossip

or harm their neighbors

or speak evil of their friends.

[4]  Those who despise flagrant sinners,

and honor the faithful followers of the LORD,

and keep their promises even when it hurts.

Ps 15:3,4 Words are powerful, and how you use them reflects on your relationship with God. Perhaps nothing so identifies Christians as their ability to control their speech—speaking the truth, refusing to slander, and keeping oaths (promises). Watch what you say. (See Jas 3:1-12 for more on the importance of controlling your tongue.) Cross References: Psalm 15:3—Ex 23:1; Ps 28:3 Psalm 15:4—Jdg 11:35; Ac 28:10

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Today’s Reading from the One Year Bible for July 18th, 2009 – 1 Chronicles 26,27 & Romans 4,5

1 Chronicles 26:27 (HCSB)

[27]  They dedicated part of the plunder from their battles for the repair of the LORD’s temple.

1Ch 26:27 War plunder rightfully belonged to the victorious army. These soldiers, however, gave their portion of all the plunder to the house of the Lord to express their dedication to God. Like these commanders, we should think of what we can give, rather than what we are obligated to give. Is your giving a matter of rejoicing rather than duty? Give as a response of joy and love for God.

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Romans 4:13 (HCSB)

The Promise Granted through Faith

[13]  For the promise to Abraham or to his descendants that he would inherit the world was not through the law, but through the righteousness that comes by faith. *[ Lit righteousness of faith ]

Ro 4:13 The promise to give the whole earth to Abraham and his descendants is found in Ge 12:2-3 and Ge 15:5 . This promise was made to Abraham many years before the requirement of circumcision, and hundreds of years before the giving of the Ten Commandments ( Ex 20 ). Abraham believed God’s promise, even though it was also made when he was almost one hundred years old and did not yet have any children. The promise was based on his faith not his obedience to a set of laws that did not yet exist.

Romans 4:14,15 (HCSB)

[14]  If those who are of the law are heirs, faith is made empty and the promise is canceled. [15]  For the law produces wrath; but where there is no law, there is no transgression.

Ro 4:14-15 If people must obey God’s law and be good enough in order to be saved, then faith is useless. That, in turn, would make God’s promise also meaningless. If the law does not bring righteousness, then why does it exist? The law brings punishment. In other words, in a world where people can make real choices, the law’s presence automatically includes the possibility of failure and the consequences that would follow. The law’s function is to help people realize their great sinfulness and to impose penalties on those who transgress it. The only way to avoid breaking the law is to have no law to break. If no one defines right and wrong, then no one knows the difference, and no one can sin.

Romans 4:16 (HCSB)

[16]  This is why the promise is by faith, so that it may be according to grace, to guarantee it to all the descendants—not only to those who are of the law, *[ Or not to those who are of the law only ] but also to those who are of Abraham’s faith. He is the father of us all

Ro 4:16 What God gives by grace can only be accepted by faith. The promise given to Abraham that he and his countless offspring would inherit the world ( 4:13 ) refers to his spiritual offspring, those who follow his example of faith. Abraham had pleased God through faith alone, before he had ever heard about the customs that would become so important to the Jewish people. We too are saved by faith plus nothing. That makes Abraham the father of all who believe, not just of the Jewish nation.

We, too, are saved by faith plus nothing. It is not by loving God and doing good that we are saved; neither is it by faith plus love or by faith plus good deeds. We are saved only through faith in Christ, trusting him to forgive all our sins. Cross References: Romans 4:16 — Ga 3:7

Romans 4:17 (HCSB)

[17]  in God’s sight. As it is written: I have made you the father of many nations. *[Ge 17:5] He believed in God, who gives life to the dead and calls things into existence that do not exist.

Ro 4:17 The promise (or covenant) that God gave Abraham said that Abraham would be the father of many nations ( Ge 17:2-4 ) and that the entire world would be blessed through him ( Ge 12:3 ). This promise was fulfilled in Jesus Christ, who was from Abraham’s line. Not only was Abraham the physical father of God’s chosen nation, the Jews, he was also the father of God’s people today, the church. Paul points out that the promise to Abraham to be the father of many nations extends beyond Israel to all the nations of the world.

Paul switches quickly into a description of God. Abraham and Paul believe in the same God, so what is the character of the God in whom they believe? Paul answers this question because believers need to have a clear understanding of the God being trusted. Paul’s words here may seem awkward to us, but they were very familiar to the Jews. God is Creator—the giver and sustainer of life. He brings the dead back to life and brings into existence what didn’t exist before (see also Dt 32:39; 1Sa 2:6 ). God has demonstrated his power. We know he can do the impossible!

Romans 4:18,19 (HCSB)

[18]  Against hope, with hope he believed, so that he became the father of many nations, *[Ge 17:5] according to what had been spoken: So will your descendants be. *[Ge 15:5] [19]  He considered *[ Other mss read He did not consider ] his own body to be already dead (since he was about a hundred years old), and the deadness of Sarah’s womb, without weakening in the faith.

Ro 4:18-19 Abraham believed God’s promise that he would become the father of many nations. He believed it against all hope; that is, beyond any possible natural hope, because he was too old to be a father at the age of one hundred and his wife was well past childbearing age and had never been able to have children. Yet Abraham realized that God’s ability to fulfill his promises outweighed the circumstances. So, Abraham’s faith did not weaken even when they, a childless couple, had been promised descendants as numerous as the stars. It was impossible, but Abraham believed in God.

Romans 4:20 (HCSB)

[20]  He did not waver in unbelief at God’s promise, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God,

Ro 4:20 Abraham never wavered in believing God’s promise because he was able to take God at his word. Abraham persisted in believing; thus, his faith grew stronger. He was able to trust in God to do what seemed humanly impossible, and even to glorify God before the results were apparent.

In spite of all this, Abraham was clearly human and imperfect. He had his weaknesses (fears) and bad habits (lying under pressure). The Bible describes Abraham with all his flaws, but as a man of faith. Thus, Abraham’s faith could not have been anything but simple trust in God. Yet God honored that. Abraham is a model not just for the Jews, but for all people as a person of faith who realized he was totally dependent on his Creator for all things, even life itself.

Romans 4:21 (HCSB)

[21]  because he was fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform.

Ro 4:21 Surrounded by a society fully immersed in paganism, where gods came by the dozens and were subject to human manipulation, Abraham dared to trust a God he could not control. Abraham did not say, “Well, we’ll see what happens.” Instead, he was absolutely convinced that God was able to do anything he promised. Abraham’s faith was in God alone. And Abraham never doubted that God would fulfill his promise.

Romans 4:22 (HCSB)

[22]  Therefore, it was credited to him for righteousness. *[Ge 15:6]

Ro 4:22 Abraham’s faith, detailed above, was exactly the kind of faith God wanted and accepted when he declared Abraham righteous ( 4:3 ). It was this “absolutely convinced” faith that Paul called for when he preached the gospel—faith that relies on nothing but God; faith in God, who gives life, sustains life, and has power to keep his promises.

Romans 4:23,24 (HCSB)

[23]  Now it was credited to him was not written for Abraham alone, [24]  but also for us. It will be credited to us who believe in Him who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead.

Ro 4:23-24 That Abraham’s faith was credited to him as righteousness ( Ge 15:6 ) describes not only how Abraham became righteous, but also how all his descendants (spiritual descendants, see 4:16 ) can become righteous before God. He will declare us to be righteous if we believe in God, who brought Jesus our Lord back from the dead. What makes us acceptable to God is not our works, but simply exercising the kind of faith Abraham had.

Abraham had to simply trust in God. That trust was confirmed in the immediate promises Abraham witnessed God fulfill in his lifetime. But he faced death without seeing all the promises fulfilled, nor understanding how God would fulfill them. The writer of Hebrews described the quality of this faith in glowing terms: “All these faithful ones died without receiving what God had promised them, but they saw it all from a distance and welcomed the promises of God” ( Heb 11:13 ). Now Paul directs his readers to the same Abrahamic faith, but clearly focused on God’s fulfillment of the great promise, the blessing of the entire world through the gift of Jesus.

Romans 4:25 (HCSB)

[25]  He was delivered up for *[ Or because of ] our trespasses and raised for *[ Or because of ] our justification. *[ Or acquittal ]

Ro 4:25 Jesus died because of our sins, taking the penalty we deserved, according to God’s plan (see 3:23-26 ). Just as God brought life from Abraham and Sarah (even though they thought they were “dead” and unable to have children), so God raised Jesus from the dead. His resurrection made us right with God.

When we accept Jesus Christ as our Savior, an exchange takes place. We give him our sins, and he forgives us and makes us right with God (see 2Co 5:21 ). There is nothing we can do to earn this. Only through Christ can we be made right in God’s eyes. What an incredible bargain this is for us! But sadly, many still choose to pass up this gift to continue "enjoying" their sin. Cross References: Romans 4:25 — Isa 53:4-5; Ro 8:30; 1Co 15:17; 2Co 5:15; 1Pe 1:21

Faith Brings Joy / 5:1-11

Paul introduces some difficult concepts in this chapter. He demonstrates the truth of the gospel in ways that stretch our thinking. To begin to understand the next four chapters, it helps to keep in mind the two-sided reality of the Christian life. On the one hand, we are complete in Christ (our acceptance with him is secure); on the other hand, we are growing in Christ (we are becoming more and more like him).

Romans 5:1 (HCSB)

Faith Triumphs

[5:1]  Therefore, since we have been declared righteous by faith, we have peace *[ Other mss read faith, let us have peace , which can also be translated faith, let us grasp the fact that we have peace ] with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Ro 5:1 With the word therefore, Paul indicates a conclusion based on his previous argument. In chapter 4 , Paul showed how sinners, both Jews and Gentiles, are justified by faith. Here he begins to describe how having been made right in God’s sight by faith affects our relationship with God. First, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Having peace with God means there is no more hostility between us and God, no sin blocking our relationship with him. More than that, a new relationship has been established, so we no longer dread the outcome of judgment but live under the protection established by God.

Romans 5:2 (HCSB)

[2]  Also through Him, we have obtained access by faith *[ Other mss omit by faith ] into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.

Ro 5:2 Not only has Christ made us right with God, but he also has given us personal access to God, bringing us into this place of highest privilege where we now stand. We have been brought into a place of favor with God. Instead of being his enemies, we are his friends—in fact, his own children ( Jn 15:15; Ga 4:5 ). Mankind was created for glory, but because of sin, had fallen “short of God’s glorious standard” ( 3:23 ). It is God’s purpose to recreate his image, his glory, fully in us so that we can confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory. Anticipating our future with God ought to bring great joy. We stand in God’s grace, and the outcome of our lives is secure in his hands. We no longer need to be haunted by thoughts of judgment; now we can reflect upon and respond to his grace.

Romans 5:3,4 (HCSB)

[3]  And not only that, but we also rejoice in our afflictions, because we know that affliction produces endurance, [4]  endurance produces proven character, and proven character produces hope.

Ro 5:3-4 Problems and trials were a normal experience for first-century Christians. On their first missionary journey, Paul and Barnabas preached in several cities, and many people became believers. But, as was always the case, there was an immediate backlash of persecution against believers. For Christians, suffering does not negate the reality of God’s love, but provides the occasion to affirm and apply it. This character quality of learning to endure is not an end in itself (see 1Pe 1:6-7 ). It is one step in a process. Endurance develops strength of character. The word character (dokime) includes the idea of “approved as a result of testing.” A person with this kind of character is known for his or her inward qualities rather than any outward appearances. The end result of this chain reaction is confident expectation of salvation —confidence that God is in control and will see us through. The difficulties of life are not random, meaningless, or wasted when we are trusting God.

For first-century Christians, suffering was the rule rather than the exception. Paul tells us that in the future we will become, but until then we must overcome. This means we will experience difficulties that help us grow. We rejoice in suffering, not because we like pain or deny its tragedy, but because we know God is using life’s difficulties and Satan’s attacks to build our character. The problems that we run into will develop our perseverance—which in turn will strengthen our character, deepen our trust in God, and give us greater confidence about the future. You probably find your patience tested in some way every day. Thank God for those opportunities to grow, and deal with them in his strength (see also Jas 1:2-4; 1Pe 1:6,7 ). Cross References: Romans 5:3 — Mt 5:12

Romans 5:5 (HCSB)

[5]  This hope does not disappoint, because God’s love has been poured out in our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.

Ro 5:5 Our expectation that God will keep his promises will never disappoint us. When our trust is in God, we are absolutely assured that he will fulfill all that he has promised—we will be resurrected to eternal life and will be with him in glory. Why? Because he has already given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. The Holy Spirit continues to encourage us, reminding us how dearly God loves us. He loves us and will do as he has promised. (See also Jn 7:38; Ro 8:35; 2Co 5:14; Tit 3:5-6 .) We can have hope in God because of the nature of his love.

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Psalms 14:1-4 (NLTse)

A Portrait of Sinners

For the choir director. Davidic.

[14:1]  Only fools say in their hearts,

“There is no God.”

They are corrupt, and their actions are evil;

not one of them does good!

[2]  The LORD looks down from heaven

on the entire human race;

he looks to see if anyone is truly wise,

if anyone seeks God.

[3]  But no, all have turned away;

all have become corrupt. *[ Greek version reads have become useless. Compare Ro 3:12 . ]

No one does good,

not a single one!

Ps 14:1-3 The true atheist is either foolish or wicked—foolish because he ignores the evidence that God exists or wicked because he refuses to live by God’s truths. We become atheists in practice when we rely more on ourselves than on God. The fool mentioned here is someone who is aggressively perverse in his actions. To speak in direct defiance of God is utterly foolish according to the Bible. Cross References: Psalm 14:1-7—This passage parallels Ps 53:1-6 Psalm 14:1—Ps 10:4; 53:1. This verse quotes or is quoted in Ro 3:10-12 Psalm 14:2—Ps 33:13-15; 102:19

Ps 14:3  No one but God is perfect; all of us stand guilty before him (see Ro 3:23 ) and need his forgiveness. No matter how well we perform or how much we achieve compared to others, none of us can boast of his or her goodness when compared to God’s standard. God not only expects us to obey his guidelines, but he wants us to love him with all our heart. No one except Jesus Christ has done that perfectly. Because we all fall short, we must turn to Christ to save us ( Ro 10:9-11 ). Have you asked him to save you? Cross References: Psalm 14:3 — Ps 58:3; 143:2

[4]  Will those who do evil never learn?

They eat up my people like bread

and wouldn’t think of praying to the LORD.

Ps 14:3,4 David applies these observations to his enemies when he says the evildoers "eat up my people like bread" (17:4). "All have turned away from God; all have become corrupt. No one does good, not even one!" By contrast, David said, "You have scrutinized me and found nothing amiss" (17:3). There is a clear distinction between those who worship God and those who refuse to worship him. David worshiped God, and under his leadership Israel obeyed God and prospered. Several hundred years later, however, Israel forgot God, and it became difficult to distinguish between God’s followers and those who worshiped idols. When Isaiah called Israel to repentance, he, like David, spoke of people who had gone astray (Isa 53:6). But Isaiah was talking about the Israelites themselves. Paul quoted Ps 14 in Ro 3:10-12. He made the image of straying sheep even more general, referring to all people. The whole human race—Jew and Gentile alike—has turned away from God. Cross References: Psalm 14:4—Isa 64:7

Psalms 14:5 (NLTSE)

[5]  Terror will grip them,

for God is with those who obey him.

Ps 14:5 If "God is with those who obey him," then those who attack God’s followers may be attacking God. To attack God is utterly futile (see 2:4, 5, 10-12). Thus, while we may feel we are losing the battle, there can be absolutely no doubt that our ultimate victory is in God. Cross References: Psalm 14:5—Ps 73:15; 112:2

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Proverbs 19:17 (NLTSE)

[17]  If you help the poor, you are lending to the LORD—

and he will repay you!

Pr 19:17 Here God identifies with the poor as Jesus does in Mt 25:31-46. As our Creator, God values all of us, whether we are poor or rich. When we help the poor, we honor both the Creator and his creation. God accepts our help as if we had offered it directly to him. Cross References: Proverbs 19:17—Dt 15:7; Pr 14:31; 28:27; Lk 6:38

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Today’s Reading from the One Year Bible for July 17th, 2009 – 1 Chronicles 24-26 & Romans 4

1 Chronicles 24:1 (HCSB)

The Divisions of the Priests

[24:1]  The divisions of the descendants of Aaron were as follows: Aaron’s sons were Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar.

1Ch 24:1 ff The Temple service was highly structured, but this did not hinder the Spirit of God. Rather, it provided an orderly context for worship. (Compare 1Co 14:40.) Sometimes we feel that planning and structure are unspiritual activities that may hinder spontaneity in worship. But order and structure can free us to respond to God. Order brings glory to God as we experience the joy, freedom, and calm that come when we have wisely planned in advance. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 24:1—Ex 6:23 1 Chronicles 24:2—Lev 10:1-2 1 Chronicles 24:5—1Ch 24:31 1 Chronicles 24:6—1Ch 18:16 1 Chronicles 24:23—1Ch 23:19 1 Chronicles 24:31—1Ch 24:5-6

1 Chronicles 25:1-7 (HCSB)

The Levitical Musicians

[25:1]  David and the officers of the army also set apart some of the sons of Asaph , Heman, and Jeduthun, who were to prophesy accompanied by lyres, harps, and cymbals. This is the list of the men who performed their service:

[2]  From Asaph’s sons:
Zaccur, Joseph, Nethaniah, and Asarelah, sons of Asaph, under Asaph’s authority, who prophesied under the authority of the king. [3]  From Jeduthun: Jeduthun’s sons:
Gedaliah, Zeri, Jeshaiah, Shimei, *[ One Hb ms, LXX; MT omits Shimei ] Hashabiah, and Mattithiah—six-under the authority of their father Jeduthun, prophesying to the accompaniment of lyres, giving thanks and praise to the LORD. [4]  From Heman: Heman’s sons:
Bukkiah, Mattaniah, Uzziel, Shebuel, Jerimoth, Hananiah, Hanani, Eliathah, Giddalti, Romamti-ezer, Joshbekashah, Mallothi, Hothir, and Mahazioth. [5]  All these sons of Heman, the king’s seer, were given by the promises of God to exalt him, *[ Or Him ; lit by the words of God to lift a horn ] for God had given Heman fourteen sons and three daughters.

[6]  All these men were under their own fathers’ authority for the music in the LORD’s temple, with cymbals, harps, and lyres for the service of God’s temple. Asaph, Jeduthun, and Heman were under the king’s authority. [7]  Together with their relatives who were all trained and skillful in music for the LORD, they numbered 288 .

1Ch 25:1-7 There were many ways to contribute to the worship in the Tabernacle. Some proclaimed God’s messages (25:1), some offered thanks and praise (25:3), and others played instruments (25:6, 7). God wants all his people to participate in worship. You may not be a master musician, a prophet, or a teacher, but God appreciates whatever you have to offer. Develop your special gifts to offer in service to God (Ro 12:3-8; 1Co 12:29-31). Cross References: 1 Chronicles 25:1—2Ki 3:15; 1Ch 6:33,39; 15:16 1 Chronicles 25:3—1Ch 16:41-42 1 Chronicles 25:4—2Sa 24:11; 1Ch 21:9 1 Chronicles 25:6—1Ch 15:16,19

1 Chronicles 26:5 (HCSB)

[5]  Ammiel the sixth,
Issachar the seventh, and Peullethai the eighth,
for God blessed him.

1Ch 26:5 "God had richly blessed Obed-edom." The status of children in society has fluctuated throughout history; sometimes they are highly esteemed, and sometimes abused and cheated. But Scripture shows no such vacillation—children are called a gift from the Lord, and God never views them as a burden (Ps 127:3-5; Mk 10:13-15).

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Romans 4:1 (HCSB)

Abraham Justified by Faith

[4:1]  What then can we say that Abraham, our forefather according to the flesh, has found?

Ro 4:1 Paul continues his conversation with his Jewish questioner by mentioning Abraham, the great founder of the Jewish nation. Paul wants to make it clear that Abraham is forefather to all believers, whether Jews or Gentiles.

According to Jewish tradition, Abraham had been chosen by God for his unique role in history because he was the only righteous man alive at the time. Abraham was the epitome of what it meant to be a Jew, and he was the first Jew, the father of all Jews. John the Baptist had warned that being descendants of Abraham did not settle matters with God (see Lk 3:7-9 ). Jesus had anticipated the broader application of Abraham’s faith ( Jn 8:39 ). Clearly there was more to being a child of Abraham than simply being able to trace one’s genealogy back to him. Abraham, too, had experienced being saved by faith.

Romans 4:2 (HCSB)

[2]  If Abraham was justified *[ Or was declared righteous , or was acquitted ] by works, then he has something to brag about—but not before God. *[ [He has no reason for boasting in God's presence] ]

Ro 4:2 If Abraham was accepted by God because of his good deeds, then he would have had something to boast about. This was the traditional rationale for religious pride that Paul expects from his Jewish questioner. Many Jews saw Abraham as being made right by God because of his obedience, especially to God’s command to sacrifice Isaac. They believed that he had every reason to boast in his relationship with God. As Abraham’s descendants, they believed that they also had reasons for pride. But Paul knocks down that argument by saying that from God’s point of view Abraham had no basis at all for pride. To underscore his point, Paul quotes directly from Ge 15:6 , “Abraham believed God, so God declared him to be righteous.” Abraham’s works or obedience were not credited as righteousness, but his faith was.

Romans 4:3 (HCSB)

[3]  For what does the Scripture say?

Abraham believed God,
and it was credited to him for righteousness. *[Ge 15:6]

Ro 4:1-3  The Jews were proud to be called children of Abraham. Paul uses Abraham as a good example of someone who was saved by faith. By emphasizing faith, Paul is not saying that God’s law is unimportant ( 4:13 ) but that it is impossible to be saved simply by obeying it. For more about Abraham, see his Profile . Cross References: Romans 4:2 — 1Co 1:31, Romans 4:3 — Ga 3:6; Jas 2:23 . This verse quotes or is quoted in Ge 15:6

Romans 4:4 (HCSB)

[4]  Now to the one who works, pay is not considered as a gift, but as something owed.

Ro 4:4  This verse means that if a person could earn right standing with God by being good, the granting of that gift wouldn’t be a free act; it would be an obligation. Our self-reliance is futile; all we can do is cast ourselves on God’s mercy and grace. Cross References: Romans 4:4 — Ro 11:6; Ga 2:16

Romans 4:5 (HCSB)

[5]  But to the one who does not work, but believes on Him who declares righteous *[ Or who acquits , or who justifies ] the ungodly, his faith is credited for righteousness.

Ro 4:4-5 Paul illustrates the difference between faith and work by describing the process of employment. An employer does not call an employee’s wages a gift; instead, the workers earn what they receive. The employer is obligated to pay for work that has been completed. The wages are the agreed-upon amount, not a gift. If a person could earn right standing with God by his or her works (doing good, obeying the law), salvation wouldn’t be free; it would be God’s obligation, like payment for our efforts.

In contrast to the wage earner are the sinners (the ungodly) who trust in God. These people do not work—in other words, they have come to God because of faith and have not performed any rituals or followed any laws. Yet these people are declared righteous because of their faith, not because of their work. How could God do this?

When some people learn that they are saved by God through faith, they start to worry. "Do I have enough faith?" they wonder. "Is my faith strong enough to save me?" These people miss the point. It is Jesus Christ who saves us, not our feelings or actions, and he is strong enough to save us no matter how weak our faith is. Jesus offers us salvation as a gift because he loves us, not because we have earned it through our powerful faith. What, then, is the role of faith? Faith is believing and trusting in Jesus Christ and reaching out to accept his wonderful gift of salvation.

Romans 4:6 (HCSB)

David Celebrating the Same Truth

[6]  Likewise, David also speaks of the blessing of the man to whom God credits righteousness apart from works:

[7] How happy those whose lawless acts are forgiven
and whose sins are covered!
[8] How happy the man whom
the Lord will never charge with sin! *[Ps 32:1-2]

Ro 4:6-8 Paul quotes from Ps 32 (written by King David ) to develop his explanation of how God can declare an undeserving sinner as righteous. David had written of the joy of those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sins are put out of sight. God’s forgiveness of sins by his sheer grace is the same as declaring people to be righteous apart from their works. He will explain this in coming verses.

What can we do to get rid of guilt? King David was guilty of terrible sins—adultery, murder, lying—and yet he experienced the joy of forgiveness. We, too, can have this joy when we (1) quit denying our guilt and recognize that we have sinned, (2) admit our guilt to God and ask for his forgiveness, and (3) let go of our guilt and believe that God has forgiven us. This can be difficult when a sin has taken root in our life over many years, when it is very serious, or when it involves others. We must remember that Jesus is willing and able to forgive every sin. In view of the tremendous price he paid on the cross, it is arrogant to think that there is any sin too great for him to forgive. Even though our faith is weak, our conscience is sensitive, and our memory haunts us, God’s Word declares that sins confessed are sins forgiven ( 1Jn 1:9 ). Cross References: Romans 4:7-8 — 2Co 5:19 . This verse quotes or is quoted in Ps 32:1-2

Romans 4:9,10 (HCSB)

Abraham Justified before Circumcision

[9]  Is this blessing only for the circumcised, then? Or is it also for the uncircumcised? For we say, Faith was credited to Abraham for righteousness. *[Ge 15:6] [10]  How then was it credited—while he was circumcised, or uncircumcised? Not while he was circumcised, but uncircumcised.

Ro 4:9-10 Does this blessing (referring to 4:6-8 ) refer only to the Jews, or is it for Gentiles as well? Back to Abraham who was declared righteous by God because of his faith. It was Abraham’s faith, not his faithfulness to certain rituals, that made him righteous. The critical question is: Was he declared righteous only after he had been circumcised, or was it before he was circumcised? Paul uses the term “circumcised” to refer to the whole of the law, because circumcision implies a desire to live under the demands of the law.

Paul immediately answers his own question— God accepted him first, and then he was circumcised later! God called Abraham in Ge 12 , declared him righteous in Ge 15 , then introduced the circumcision ceremony in Ge 17 .

Romans 4:11,12 (HCSB)

[11]  And he received the sign of circumcision as a seal of the righteousness that he had by faith *[ Lit righteousness of faith ] while still uncircumcised. This was to make him the father of all who believe but are not circumcised, so that righteousness may be credited to them also. [12]  And he became the father of the circumcised, not only to those who are circumcised, but also to those who follow in the footsteps of the faith our father Abraham had while still uncircumcised.

Ro 4:11-12 Abraham’s circumcision sealed the righteous standing he already had with God because of his faith. God said, “This will be a sign that you and they have accepted this covenant” ( Ge 17:11 ). God had already accepted him and declared him to be righteous—even before he was circumcised. So, Abraham is the spiritual father of those who have faith but have not been circumcised. He is the father of those who are made right with God by faith. That makes him the father of Gentiles who have believed in Jesus Christ as Savior. But he is also the spiritual father of those who have been circumcised, meaning the Jews. But this only applies to those Jews who have the same kind of faith Abraham had before he was circumcised, faith in God, not in their own goodness.

Abraham is father of all who believe in God. He is father of uncircumcised believers because he was uncircumcised when he was considered righteous; he is the father of circumcised believers not simply because of common Jewish heritage, but because they both had faith in God.

Rituals did not earn any reward for Abraham; he had been blessed long before the circumcision ceremony was introduced. Abraham found favor with God by faith alone, before he was circumcised. Ge 12:1-3 tells of God’s call to Abraham when he was 75 years old; the circumcision ceremony was introduced when he was 99 ( Ge 17:1-14 ). Ceremonies and rituals serve as reminders of our faith as well as instruct new or young believers. But we should not think that they give us any special merit before God. They are outward signs and seals that demonstrate inner belief and trust. The focus of our faith should be on Christ and his saving work, not on our own actions. Cross References: Romans 4:11 — Ge 17:10-11

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Psalms 13:1 (HCSB)

A Plea for Deliverance

For the choir director. A Davidic psalm.

[13:1]  LORD, how long will You continually forget me?
How long will You hide Your face from me? *[Ps 89:46; Job 13:24]

Ps 13:1 Sometimes all we need to do is talk over a problem with a friend to help put it in perspective. In this psalm, the phrase "how long" occurs four times in the first two verses, indicating the depth of David’s distress. David expressed his feelings to God and found strength. By the end of his prayer, he was able to express hope and trust in God. Through prayer we can express our feelings and talk our problems out with God. He helps us regain the right perspective, and this gives us peace (Hab 3:17-19). Cross References: Psalm 13:1—Job 13:24; Ps 44:24; 89:46

[2]  How long will I store up anxious concerns *[ Or up counsels ] within me,
agony in my mind every day?
How long will my enemy dominate me?

[3]  Consider me and answer, LORD, my God.
Restore brightness to my eyes;
otherwise, I will sleep in death,
[4]  my enemy will say, “I have triumphed over him,”
and my foes will rejoice because I am shaken.

[5]  But I have trusted in Your faithful love;
my heart will rejoice in Your deliverance.

Ps 13:1-5  David frequently claimed that God was slow to act on his behalf. We often feel this same impatience. It seems that evil and suffering go unchecked, and we wonder when God is going to stop them. David affirmed that he would continue to trust God no matter how long he had to wait for God’s justice to be realized. When you feel impatient, remember David’s steadfast faith in God’s unfailing love. Cross References: Psalm 13:2 — Ps 42:4-5,9, Psalm 13:3 — Ezr 9:8; Job 33:29-30; Ps 5:1, Psalm 13:4 — Ps 25:2; 38:16, Psalm 13:5 — Ps 9:14; 52:8

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Proverbs 19:16 (NLTSE)

[16]  Keep the commandments and keep your life;

despising them leads to death.

Pr 19:16 The commandments we are told to obey are those found in God’s Word, such as the Ten Commandments (Ex 20) and other passages of instruction. To obey what God teaches in the Bible is self-preserving. To disobey is self-destructive. Cross References: Proverbs 19:16—Pr 16:17; Lk 10:28; 11:28

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Today’s Reading from the One Year Bible for July 15th, 2009 – 1 Chronicles 19-21 & Romans 2,3

1 Chronicles 19:2,3 (HCSB)

[2]  Then David said, “I’ll show kindness to Hanun son of Nahash, because his father showed kindness to me.”

So David sent messengers to console him concerning his father. However, when David’s emissaries arrived in the land of the Ammonites to console him, [3]  the Ammonite leaders said to Hanun, “Just because David has sent men with condolences for you, do you really believe he’s showing respect for your father? Instead, hasn’t David sent his emissaries in order to scout out, overthrow, and spy on the land?”

1Ch 19:2,3 Hanun misread David’s intentions. He was overly suspicious and brought disaster upon himself. Because of past experiences, it is easy to be overly suspicious of others, questioning every move and second-guessing their motives. While we should be cautious and wise as we deal with others, we should not assume their every action is ill-intended.

1 Chronicles 19:6 (HCSB)

[6]  When the Ammonites realized they had made themselves repulsive to David, Hanun and the Ammonites sent 38 tons *[ Lit 1,000 talents ] of silver to hire chariots and horsemen from Aram-naharaim, Aram-maacah, and Zobah.

1Ch 19:6 Rather than admit his mistake and seek forgiveness and reconciliation, Hanun spent an enormous amount of money to cover up his error. His cover-up cost him dearly (20:1-3). It often costs more to cover up an error than to admit it honestly. Rather than compound an error through defensiveness, seek forgiveness and reconciliation as soon as you realize your mistake. You will save yourself and others a lot of pain and trouble.

1 Chronicles 20:1 (HCSB)

Capture of the City of Rabbah

[20:1]  In the spring *[ Lit At the time of the return of the year ] when kings march out to war, Joab led the army and destroyed the Ammonites’ land. He came to Rabbah and besieged it, but David remained in Jerusalem. *[2Sa 11:1] Joab attacked Rabbah and demolished it. *[2Sa 12:26]

1Ch 20:1 Kings went out to battle following the spring harvest At this time, farm work eased off, and the armies could live off the land. During the winter, they plotted and planned future conquests. Then, when fair weather permitted, their armies went to war. But David ignored this opportunity. He stayed home and sent Joab out to lead the army. It was during this time of inactivity that he sinned with Bathsheba. Look for the "springs" in your life, the times when God wants you to respond, take the initiative, and move out to do his will. It is during these critical times that we may be most sensitive to temptation. Resolve to take the action God has prescribed. Don’t give temptation a foothold in your inactivity.

1 Chronicles 21:1 (HCSB)

David’s Military Census

[21:1]  Satan *[ Or An adversary ; Job 1:6; Zec 3:1-2] stood up against Israel and incited David to count the people of Israel. [2]  So David said to Joab and the commanders of the troops, “Go and count Israel from Beer-sheba to Dan and bring a report to me so I can know their number.”

[3]  Joab replied, “May the LORD multiply the number of His people a hundred times over! My lord the king, aren’t they all my lord’s servants? Why does my lord want to do this? Why should he bring guilt on Israel?”

1Ch 21:1 David’s census brought disaster because, unlike the census taken in the book of Numbers (Nu 1-2) that God had ordered, this census was taken so David could take pride in the strength of his army. In determining his military strength, he was beginning to trust more in military power than in God. There is a thin line between feeling confident because you are relying on God’s power and becoming proud because you have been used by God for great purposes. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 21:1-26—This passage parallels 2Sa 24:1-25 1 Chronicles 21:5—2Sa 24:9 1 Chronicles 21:6—1Ch 27:24 1 Chronicles 21:9—1Sa 9:9; 2Sa 24:11; 1Ch 29:29 1 Chronicles 21:12—2Sa 24:13 1 Chronicles 21:15—Ex 32:14; 1Sa 15:11; Jon 3:10 1 Chronicles 21:16—1Ki 21:27 1 Chronicles 21:17—2Sa 7:8; Ps 74:1 1 Chronicles 21:18—2Ch 3:1 1 Chronicles 21:26—Lev 9:24; Jdg 6:21

1Ch 21:1 The Bible text says Satan caused David to take a census. Can Satan force people to do wrong? No, Satan only tempted David with the idea, but David decided to act on the temptation. Ever since the Garden of Eden, Satan has been tempting people to sin. David’s census was not against God’s law, but his reason for the census was wrong—pride in his mighty army. He forgot that his real strength came from God. Even Joab, not known for his high moral ideals, recognized the census as sin. From David’s example we learn that an action that may not be wrong in itself can be sinful if it is motivated by greed, arrogance, or selfishness. Often our motives, not the action itself, contain the sin. We must constantly weigh our motives before we act.

1Ch 21:1-3 David fell to Satan’s temptation. God provided a way out in Joab’s counsel, but David’s curiosity was spurred on by arrogance. His faith was in his own strength rather than in God’s. If we feel self-sufficient and put confidence in ourselves apart from God, we soon fall to Satan’s schemes. Self-sufficiency pulls us away from God. When you are tempted, examine your inner desires to understand why the external temptation is so appealing. (See 1Co 10:13 for more about escaping temptation.) Cross References: 1 Chronicles 21:2—1Ch 27:23-24 1 Chronicles 21:3—Dt 1:11

1 Chronicles 21:8 (HCSB)

[8]  David said to God, “I have sinned greatly because I have done this thing. Now, because I’ve been very foolish, please take away your servant’s guilt.” *[2Sa 24:1-10]

1Ch 21:8 When David realized his sin, he took full responsibility, admitted he was wrong, and asked God to forgive him. Many people want to add God and the benefits of Christianity to their lives without acknowledging their personal sin and guilt. But confession and repentance must come before receiving forgiveness. Like David, we must take full responsibility for our actions and confess them to God before we can expect him to forgive us and continue his work in us. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 21:8—2Sa 12:13

1 Chronicles 21:13,14 (HCSB)

[13]  David answered Gad, “I have great anxiety. Please, let me fall into the LORD’s hands because His mercies are very great, but don’t let me fall into human hands.”

[14]  So the LORD sent a plague on Israel, and 70,000 Israelite men died.

1Ch 21:13,14 Sin has a domino effect; once a sin is committed, a series of consequences follows. God will forgive our sin if we ask him, but the consequences of that sin have already been set in motion. David pled for mercy, and God responded by stopping the angel before his mission of death was complete. The consequences of David’s sin, however, had already caused severe damage. God will always forgive our sins and will often intervene to make their bitter consequences less severe, but the scars will remain. Thinking through the possible consequences before we act can stop us and thus save us much sorrow and suffering. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 21:13—Ps 51:1; 130:4,7 1 Chronicles 21:14—1Ch 27:24

1Ch 21:14  Why did 70,000 innocent people die for David’s sin? Our society places great emphasis upon the individual. In ancient times, however, the family leaders, tribal leaders, and kings represented the people they led, and all expected to share in their successes as well as in their failures and punishments. David deserved punishment for his sin, but his death could have resulted in political chaos and invasion by enemy armies, leaving hundreds of thousands dead. Instead, God graciously spared David’s life. He also put a stop to the plague so that most of the people of Jerusalem were spared.

God made us to work together interdependently. Whether we think it is fair or not, the group usually suffers because of the sins of its leaders. Similarly, our actions always affect other people whether we want them to or not. We cannot fully know the mind of God in this severe judgment. We don’t know where the prophets, the tribal leaders, and the other advisers were during this incident and whether or not they chose to go along with the king. We do know that putting confidence in military might alone is idolatry. To allow anything to take God’s place is sinful, and it may cause disastrous consequences.

1 Chronicles 21:22-24 (HCSB)

[22]  Then David said to Ornan, “Give me this threshing-floor plot so that I may build an altar to the LORD on it. Give it to me for the full price, so the plague on the people may be halted.”

[23]  Ornan said to David, “Take it! My lord the king may do whatever he wants. *[ Lit do what is good in his eyes ] See, I give the oxen for the burnt offerings , the threshing sledges for the wood, and the wheat for the grain offering -I give it all.”

[24]  King David answered Ornan, “No, I insist on paying the full price, for I will not take for the LORD what belongs to you or offer burnt offerings that cost me nothing.”

1Ch 21:22-24 When David wanted to buy Araunah’s land to build an altar, Araunah generously offered it as a gift. But David refused, saying, "I cannot take what is yours and give it to the LORD. I will not offer a burnt offering that has cost me nothing!" David wanted to offer an offering (or sacrifice) to God. An offering should cost the giver in terms of self, time, or money. To give sacrificially requires more than a token effort or gift. God wants us to give voluntarily, but he wants it to mean something. Giving to God what costs you nothing does not demonstrate commitment.

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Romans 2:25 (HCSB)

Circumcision of the Heart

[25]  For circumcision benefits you if you observe the law, but if you are a lawbreaker, your circumcision has become uncircumcision.

Ro 2:25 Circumcision was fundamental to the Jews—it symbolized the covenant between God and Abraham’s descendants ( Ge 17:9-14 ). It was the expression of Israel’s national identity and was a requirement for all Jewish men. Circumcision was a physical reminder to Jews of their national heritage and privilege. Many were confident that it sealed their position with God. But just as having the law did not make a person right before God, neither was circumcision in itself a cause for confidence. To be circumcised was worth something only if you obey God’s law (see Ga 5:3 ). To be circumcised and yet break God’s law was no better than not being circumcised at all. What God desires is a pure and obedient heart.

Symbols require some sense of reality in order to be significant; otherwise they are empty. Signing a contract does not take the place of doing the work. In fact, signing a contract and then refusing to carry out its terms is considered a serious breach. It is worse than a failure. It is a deception.

Romans 2:26,27 (HCSB)

[26]  Therefore if an uncircumcised man keeps the law’s requirements, will his uncircumcision not be counted as circumcision? [27]  A man who is physically uncircumcised, but who fulfills the law, will judge you who are a lawbreaker in spite of having the letter of the law and circumcision.

Ro 2:26-27 Paul had already pointed out that circumcision was a valuable part of a system governed by obedience. Where there was no obedience, circumcision was of no value. By the same logic, when obedience was present, the real objective was accomplished, even though circumcision had not occurred. In other words, Gentiles who obey God’s law are as good in God’s sight as a law-abiding, circumcised Jew and could receive the rights and honors of being God’s own people. A Gentile who kept the law would be in a position to condemn a Jew who broke it, no matter how well that Jew knew the law. The Jew who required strict observance to every letter of the law, but was not a doer of the law, was actually a transgressor of that law because he had missed the point.

We must keep in mind that Paul is dealing here with absolutes. Obedience is not a matter of degrees. James saw this clearly: “The person who keeps all of the laws except one is as guilty as the person who has broken all of God’s laws” ( Jas 2:10 ). The sharp division that the law creates reveals the startling nature of the gospel. The righteousness we might try to create by living up to the law, circumcised or not, leads to hopelessness. Perfect obedience is beyond us.

Romans 2:28,29 (HCSB)

[28]  For a person is not a Jew who is one outwardly, and true circumcision is not something visible in the flesh. [29]  On the contrary, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly, and circumcision is of the heart—by the Spirit, not the letter. *[ Or heart—spiritually, not literally ] His praise *[ In Hb, the words Jew , Judah , and praise are related. ] is not from men but from God.

Ro 2:28-29 Paul is adamant: The circumcision that God wanted was not cutting the flesh, and cutting the flesh did not fulfill the law. Paul is not inventing new theology, but urging his readers to re-examine the testimony of the Old Testament Scriptures. To be one of God’s children— a true Jew —was not merely to be a circumcised Jew, but to be one who loved God and followed his laws. The kind of Jews God wanted were not those people tied to a heritage, rather people whose lives were pleasing to God. It was a matter of the heart. The person whose heart is right with God because of God’s Holy Spirit will be of great value to God. A Jew transformed by God’s Spirit would be living up to his name, for he would be praiseworthy in God’s eyes. He would fulfill what the law required but was powerless to produce.

To be a Jew meant you were in God’s family, an heir to all his promises. Yet Paul made it clear that membership in God’s family is based on internal, not external, qualities. All whose hearts are right with God are real Jews—that is, part of God’s family (see also Ga 3:7 ). Attending church or being baptized, confirmed, or accepted for membership is not enough, just as submitting to circumcision was not enough for the Jews. God desires our heartfelt devotion and obedience (see also Dt 10:16; Je 4:4 ). Cross References: Romans 2:28 — Mt 3:9; Jn 8:39; Ga 6:15, Romans 2:29 — Dt 30:6; Jn 5:44; Ro 7:6; 2Co 3:6; 10:18; Phl 3:3; Col 2:11; 1Pe 3:4

Romans 3  In this chapter Paul contends that everyone stands guilty before God. Paul has dismantled the common excuses of people who refuse to admit they are sinners: (1) "There is no God" or "I follow my conscience" ( 1:18-32 ); (2) "I’m not as bad as other people" ( 2:1-16 ); (3) "I’m a church member" or "I’m a religious person" ( 2:17-29 ). No one will be exempt from God’s judgment of sin. Every person must accept the fact that he or she is sinful and condemned before God and receive God’s wonderful gift of salvation. Cross References: Romans 3:4 —This verse quotes or is quoted in Ps 51:4, Romans 3:9 — Ro 1:18-2:24, Romans 3:29 — Ro 10:12; Ga 3:28

God Remains Faithful / 3:1-8

Having firmly described the shared sinful condition of humankind, Paul turns to several thoughts about the unique benefits of being Jewish. He wants to remind his Jewish brothers that their lack of faith has not hindered God’s plan. Paul does not want his people to miss the significance of God’s faithfulness. In spite of their failures, God still allows them to be the people of the Messiah. In fact, the Jews’ lack of faith is a clear witness to the absolute need for a Savior. Neither they nor we can save ourselves. God’s faithfulness is our only hope.

Romans 3:1 (HCSB)

Paul Answers an Objection

[3:1]  So what advantage does the Jew have? Or what is the benefit of circumcision?

Ro 3:1 Paul’s conversation with his Jewish critic continues into this chapter. At the end of chapter 2 , Paul had clearly stated that true “Jewishness” is not a matter of heritage, but a matter of one’s relationship with God, and that true circumcision is not on the body, but on the heart. The Jewish response might have well been, “Then what’s the advantage of being a Jew? Is there any value in the Jewish ceremony of circumcision?” Paul gives his response.

Romans 3:2 (HCSB)

[2]  Considerable in every way. First, they were entrusted with the spoken words of God.

Ro 3:2 Paul answers yes, there are advantages for those members of God’s chosen nation. The Jews were entrusted with the whole revelation of God ( Ex 19-20; Dt 4:8 ). That great privilege alone made the Jews even more responsible to live up to God’s requirements. Paul himself was a Jew, and even though he became a dynamic Christian, he did not turn his back on his heritage. In fact, he realized that the prophets, the law, and God’s plan all pointed to fulfillment in Jesus Christ. Therefore, he could confidently state that being a Jew and being circumcised did have meaning, but only as part of God’s total plan. The Jews were entrusted with God’s words, preserving them until the coming of Christ, who was the fulfillment of the prophetic Scriptures.

Romans 3:3 (HCSB)

[3]  What then? If some did not believe, will their unbelief cancel God’s faithfulness?

Ro 3:3 While it was true that many Jews were unfaithful to God or to what they had been entrusted, that didn’t change the fact of God’s faithfulness. Many Jews rejected the gospel and thus failed to understand their own Scriptures. But Israel’s unfaithfulness did not determine God’s faithfulness. God had always been faithful to Israel, despite the nation’s failings, and God would continue to be faithful to his covenant with them.

Romans 3:4 (HCSB)

[4]  Absolutely not! God must be true, but everyone is a liar, *[Ps 116:11 LXX ] as it is written:

That You may be justified in Your words
and triumph when You judge. *[Ps 51:4]

Ro 3:4 In the strongest terms he could use, Paul wanted to drive home the point that the combined self-justification of the whole world could not stand up to God’s truth. If God and every person were to disagree, there still would not be any doubt about who was right. The fact that many people are unfaithful (see Ps 116:11 ) by suppressing the truth ( 1:18 ), exchanging the truth for a lie ( 1:25 ), and rejecting the truth ( 2:8 ), doesn’t change the deeper fact that God is true. God’s purpose for Israel and his plan for all people remained unshaken.

Paul quoted from one of the profoundly confessional passages in the Old Testament ( Ps 51:4 ). It records the repentance of David following his confrontation with the prophet Nathan over his sin with Bathsheba. In the revelation of his sin David realized, as all of us must, that there is no denial before God. He sees even those things that we hide so well in ourselves and perhaps even come to believe never happened. Kings were used to getting their way. We tend toward the same arrogance. Before God it carries no weight at all.

Romans 3:5,6 (HCSB)

[5]  But if our unrighteousness highlights *[ Or shows , or demonstrates ] God’s righteousness, what are we to say? I use a human argument: *[ Lit I speak as a man ] Is God unrighteous to inflict wrath? [6]  Absolutely not! Otherwise, how will God judge the world?

Ro 3:5-6 The apologist in Paul can foresee further objections arising. He poses them in the question of this verse. He understands that people are usually more willing to rationalize than repent, and that their minds will be pondering ways to elude God’s righteous judgment. Paul knows they are thinking, “If my sinfulness makes God look so good, then why should he punish me? I’m actually helping him out!” This was an attempt to make it seem unfair for God to punish sinners.

Many believe that God’s wrath contradicts his loving nature. But God judges based on his own character, not on society’s norm for fairness. God is not accountable to some external, vague notion of fair play. His personal moral uprightness is the standard by which he judges.

Eventually the final day of reckoning will come when God “will judge all people according to what they have done” ( 2:6 ). God must and will judge sin—he has the right to judge the world because he is God, and he is holy and just. Paul answers by reaffirming God’s character. If God is not just, how is he qualified to judge the world? No person can be an exception to God’s laws; that would violate God’s character and disqualify him as the Judge.

Romans 3:7 (HCSB)

[7]  But if by my lie God’s truth is amplified to His glory, why am I also still judged as a sinner?

Ro 3:7 This is the same question from verse 5 , posed with different words. The root problem is in people’s misunderstanding of God’s righteousness when he is patient to both unfaithful Jews and sinful Gentiles. Jews cannot condemn Gentiles; both are in the same predicament. Both need to rely on God’s righteousness in his dealings with them and then choose to trust him or face his inevitable wrath for their sins.

Romans 3:8 (HCSB)

[8]  And why not say, just as some people slanderously claim we say, “Let us do evil so that good may come”? Their condemnation is deserved!

Ro 3:8 The gospel Paul preached was being misconstrued because he argued that obeying the law would not bring salvation. Paul, and possibly the Roman Christians, had heard this objection from Jews who were accusing him of teaching lawlessness. If Jews or Gentile Christians interpreted Paul’s words that God is faithful despite people’s faithlessness to mean that God’s laws need not be followed, then they could reach the incorrect conclusion that the more we sin the better it is. Paul dismisses this perverse reasoning with the terse words, “Those who say such things deserve to be condemned.”

Some may think they don’t have to worry about sin because (1) it’s God’s job to forgive; (2) God is so loving that he won’t judge us; (3) sin isn’t so bad—it teaches us valuable lessons; or (4) we need to stay in touch with the culture around us. It is far too easy to take God’s grace for granted. But God cannot overlook sin. No matter how many excuses they make, sinners will have to answer to God for their sin. Cross References: Romans 3:5 — Ro 5:8; Ga 3:15, Romans 3:7 — Ro 9:19, Romans 3:8 — Ro 6:1

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Psalms 11:1-4 (NLTSE)

For the choir director: A psalm of David.

[11:1]  I trust in the LORD for protection.

So why do you say to me,

“Fly like a bird to the mountains for safety!

[2]  The wicked are stringing their bows

and fitting their arrows on the bowstrings.

They shoot from the shadows

at those whose hearts are right.

[3]  The foundations of law and order have collapsed.

What can the righteous do?”

[4]  But the LORD is in his holy Temple;

the LORD still rules from heaven.

He watches everyone closely,

examining every person on earth.

Ps 11:1-4 David was forced to flee for safety several times. Being God’s anointed king did not make him immune to injustice and hatred from others. This psalm may have been written when he was being hunted by Saul (1Sa 18-31) or during the days of Absalom’s rebellion (2Sa 15-18). In both instances, David fled, but not as if all was lost. He knew God was in control. While David wisely avoided trouble, he did not fearfully run away from his troubles. Cross References: Psalm 11:1—Ps 121:1-2 Psalm 11:2—Ps 7:12; 64:3-4 Psalm 11:3—Ps 82:5

Ps 11:1-4 David seems to be speaking to those who are advising him to run from his enemies. David’s faith contrasts dramatically with the fear of the advisers who tell him to flee. Faith in God keeps us from losing hope and helps us resist fear. David’s advisers were afraid because they saw only frightening circumstances and crumbling foundations. David was comforted and optimistic because he knew God was greater than anything his enemies could bring against him (7:10; 16:1; 31:2, 3).

Ps 11:4  When the foundations are shaking and you wish you could hide, remember that God is still in control. His power is not diminished by any turn of events. Nothing happens without his knowledge and permission. When you feel like running away—run to God. He will restore justice and goodness on the earth in his good time. Cross References: Psalm 11:4 — Ps 34:15-16; 103:19

Psalms 11:5 (NLTSE)

[5]  The LORD examines both the righteous and the wicked.

He hates those who love violence.

Ps 11:5 God does not preserve believers from difficult circumstances, but he examines (or tests) both the righteous and the wicked. For some, God’s tests become a refining fire, while for others, they become an incinerator for destruction. Don’t ignore or defy the tests and challenges that come your way. Use them as opportunities for you to grow. Cross References: Psalm 11:5—Ge 22:1; Ps 5:5; 34:19

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Today’s Reading from the One Year Bible for July 16th, 2009 – 1 Chronicles 22,23 & Romans 3

1 Chronicles 22:1 (HCSB)

[22:1]  Then David said, “This is the house of the LORD God, and this is the altar of burnt offering for Israel.”

1Ch 22:1 Out of David’s tragic mistake came the purchase of a plot of land that would become the site of God’s Temple, the symbol of God’s presence among his people. Every time the people would go to the Temple they would remember that God was their true King and that everyone, including their human king, was fallible and subject to sin. God can use our sins for good purposes if we are sorry for them and seek his forgiveness. When we confess our sins, the way is opened for God to bring good from a bad situation. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 22:1—1Ch 21:18-28; 2Ch 3:1

1 Chronicles 22:7-10 (HCSB)

[7]  “My son,” David said to Solomon, “It was in my heart to build a house for the name of the LORD my God, [8]  but the word of the LORD came to me: ‘You have shed much blood and waged great wars. You are not to build a house for My name because you have shed so much blood on the ground before Me. [9]  But a son will be born to you; he will be a man of rest. I will give him rest from all his surrounding enemies, for his name will be Solomon, *[ The name Solomon sounds like Hb “peace.” ] and I will give peace and quiet to Israel during his reign. [10]  He is the one who will build a house for My name. He will be My son, and I will be his father. I will establish the throne of his kingdom over Israel forever.’ *[1Ch 17:1-4; 28:2-7]

1Ch 22:7-10 God told David he would not be the one to build the Temple. Instead, the task would be left to his son Solomon. David graciously accepted this no from God. He was not jealous of the fact that his son would have the honor of building God’s Temple but instead made preparations for Solomon to carry out his task. Similarly, we should take steps now to prepare the way for our children to find and fulfill God’s purpose. Sooner or later our children will have to make their own decisions, but we can help by supplying them with the proper tools: showing them how to pray and study God’s Word, the difference between right and wrong, and the importance of church involvement. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 22:7—2Sa 7:2-3; 1Ch 17:1-2 1 Chronicles 22:8—1Ch 28:3 1 Chronicles 22:9—2Sa 12:24-25; 1Ki 4:20,25 1 Chronicles 22:10—2Sa 7:13; 1Ch 17:12

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Romans 3:9 (HCSB)

The Whole World Guilty before God

[9]  What then? Are we any better? *[ [Are we Jews any better than the Gentiles?] ] Not at all! For we have previously charged that both Jews and Gentiles *[ Lit Greeks ] are all under sin, *[ [Under sin's power or dominion] ]

Ro 3:9 To the question of whether there was any value in being a Jew, Paul had said yes ( 3:2 ). But to the question as to whether Jews are better than Gentiles, Paul answers no. The reason? Jews and Gentiles alike are under the power of sin. Both need God’s grace. Gentiles have no excuse ( 1:20 ), and neither do Jews ( 2:1 ).

Romans 3:10 (HCSB)

[10]  as it is written: *[ [Paul constructs this charge from a chain of OT quotations, mainly from the Psalms.] ]

There is no one righteous, not even one;

Ro 3:10 There can be no more argument about special privileges for the Jews, for from their own Scriptures Paul strings together a series of verses outlining universal indictment. The advantage of being a Jew does not apply to salvation. All have sinned; no one is righteous. No one can earn right standing with God.

As is the pattern throughout the New Testament, writers do not always quote word for word from the Old Testament. Their notions about making exact citations were less stringent than ours. And because writers were probably working from memory as often as they were working with a text before them, their quotations tend to be allusions more than they are direct references. At other times their quotes may have been exact to the translation they did have before them, such as the Greek version of the Old Testament.

Romans 3:11,12 (HCSB)

[11] there is no one who understands,
there is no one who seeks God. [12] All have turned away,
together they have become useless;
there is no one who does good,
there is not even one. *[Ps 14:1-3; 53:1-3 ; see Ec 7:20]

Ro 3:11-12 The phrase no one is seeking God is from Ps 14:2 . Seeking is a way of expressing what is most important to us. This kind of seeking means training ourselves to turn to God first for help, to fill our thoughts with his desires, to take his character for our pattern, and to serve and obey him in everything. The phrase all have turned away from God; all have gone wrong is from Ps 14:3 . The failure to seek God does not leave a person immobilized; rather, it sets him or her on a course of destruction. Whatever does not include the seeking of God ends up leading people in the wrong direction.

Romans 3:13,14 (HCSB)

[13] Their throat is an open grave;
they deceive with their tongues. *[Ps 5:9]
Vipers’ venom is under their lips. *[Ps 140:3] [14] Their mouth is full of cursing and bitterness. *[Ps 10:7]

Ro 3:13-14 From Ps 5:9 comes the statement that their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave. Jesus made it clear that the indications of sinfulness come from inside of us ( Mt 15:11 ). Up until this verse, the evidence of rebellion has been mainly evident between a person and God. Here Paul begins to point out that sinfulness corrupts human relationships too. The gift of communication becomes twisted into a weapon to deceive others.

From Ps 10:7 comes the picture of sinful people’s mouths full of cursing and bitterness. Eventually, rebellion against God shows itself by tainting the way a person speaks. Cursing and bitterness may strike us first as offensive expressions, but they are also clues about a person’s inward condition.

Romans 3:15-17 (HCSB)

[15] Their feet are swift to shed blood;

[16] ruin and wretchedness are in their paths, [17] and the path of peace they have not known. *[Isa 59:7-8]

Ro 3:15-17 Isa 59:7-8 states that rebellion against God leads to violence against others. The shameful milestones of history are marked with bloodstains from the atrocities committed by those who freed themselves from God. There is always talk of peace, but apart from God, there can be no real peace.

Romans 3:18 (HCSB)

[18] There is no fear of God before their eyes. *[Ps 36:1]

Ro 3:18 Quoting from Ps 36:1 , Paul states the bottom line condition of these people: they have no fear of God to restrain them. To fear the Lord is to recognize God for who he is: holy, almighty, righteous, pure, all-knowing, all-powerful, and all-wise. When we regard God correctly, we gain a clearer picture of ourselves: sinful, weak, frail, and needy. When we recognize who God is and who we are, we will fall at his feet in humble respect. Only then will he show us how to choose his way.

Paul’s brief tour of truth ends almost full circle. He began with the fact that no one is like God (who is righteous), and he ends with the parallel truth that we lack fear of God. Some people lack this fear out of ignorance, while others, through familiarity with God, lose the sense of humble awe that ought to characterize a person’s attitude before God.

Have you ever thought to yourself, "Well, I’m not too bad. I’m a pretty good person"? Look at these verses and see if any of them apply to you. Have you ever lied? Have you ever hurt someone’s feelings by your words or tone of voice? Are you bitter toward anyone? Do you become angry with those who strongly disagree with you? In thought, word, and deed, you, like everyone else in the world, stand guilty before God. We must remember who we are in his sight—alienated sinners. Don’t deny that you are a sinner. Instead, allow your desperate need to point you toward Christ. Cross References: Romans 3:13 —This verse quotes or is quoted in Ps 5:9; 140:3, Romans 3:14 —This verse quotes or is quoted in Ps 10:7, Romans 3:15-17 —This verse quotes or is quoted in Isa 59:7-8, Romans 3:18 —This verse quotes or is quoted in Ps 36:1

Romans 3:19 (HCSB)

[19]  Now we know that whatever the law says speaks to those who are subject to the law, *[ Lit those in the law ] so that every mouth may be shut and the whole world may become subject to God’s judgment. *[ Or become guilty before God , or may be accountable to God ]

Ro 3:19 The verses above quoted from the Scriptures condemn all people, but especially those under the law, the Jews. Those who read the verses above are silenced. There are no more excuses to be made, no more self-defenses uttered. No one has any excuses; everyone is liable for judgment. And if the Jews—God’s special chosen people—can say nothing in their own behalf, then no one can.

In the silence filling the court, one thought is clear: guilty as charged. That accountability of guilt must be answered, even though every explanation and excuse had failed. We are held accountable to God because he is our Creator, the personal source behind the standard (law), and the faithful Judge. We owe our existence and obedience to this One.

The last time someone accused you of wrongdoing, what was your reaction? Denial, argument, and defensiveness? The entire world will be silent before almighty God. No excuses or arguments will remain. Have you reached the point with God where you are ready to hang up your defenses and await his decision? If you haven’t, stop now and admit your sin to him. If you have, the following verses are truly good news for you! Cross References: Romans 3:19 — Ro 2:12

Romans 3:20 (HCSB)

[20]  For no flesh will be justified *[ Or will be declared righteous , or will be acquitted ] in His sight by the works of the law, for through the law comes the knowledge of sin.

Ro 3:20 With this all-inclusive statement, Paul closes his opening arguments that describe the state of human lostness. The purpose of the law is not to bring salvation, but to make us aware of sin.

The only way people can be made right in God’s sight is for God to declare them so. No one can do it by trying to do what God’s law commands, meaning keeping certain traditions, such as circumcision, in order to be identified as a Jew and so remain under God’s covenant promises. These traditions have to do with identifying with God’s people and maintaining one’s relationship within that people. Again Paul drives the point home: being a knowledgeable, faithful, and law-keeping Jew doesn’t make a person righteous. The law was not meant to become something the Jews boasted about; rather, it was given to eliminate anyone’s boasting and to make all people aware of sin and their constant need for God’s grace. The law only makes it painfully clear that people aren’t obeying it.

Christ Took Our Punishment / 3:21-31

Like the swelling waves of the tide, Paul’s argument rolls over the predicament of the human race. After each wave of the gospel, the waters recede to reveal a new aspect or depth of the problem of sin. This wavelike approach to Paul’s letter provides a number of views of the same issues, with slightly different emphases. Having stated such a strong case for our universal indictment under the law, Paul now turns to God’s gracious alternative plan.

Romans 3:21 (HCSB)

God’s Righteousness through Faith

[21]  But now, apart from the law, God’s righteousness has been revealed—attested by the Law and the Prophets *[ When capitalized, the Law and the Prophets = OT ]

Ro 3:21 The words but now present an important shift in subject. Whereas the law was God’s righteous standard, the righteousness required to live up to it was not within man’s capacity. God, the measure of righteousness, had to provide a means of righteousness—of being right in his sight. The gospel is not a recent creation by God to respond to human failure. It was promised in the Scriptures long ago. Whereas the law provided a measurement of the distance between God and his creatures, this righteousness from God has been provided in a different way. There is a way to be righteous before God. It is not by obeying the law, by being “Jewish” (see 3:20 ), yet it has always been in the Law and the Prophets, for they pointed to it.

Romans 3:22 (HCSB)

[22]  -that is, God’s righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ, *[ Or through the faithfulness of Jesus Christ ] to all who believe, since there is no distinction.

Ro 3:22 The way to being made right in God’s sight is the way of faith in Jesus Christ to take away our sins. Trusting in Jesus Christ means putting our confidence in him to forgive our sins, to make us right with God, and to empower us to live the way he taught us. God’s solution is available to all of us regardless of our background or past behavior. And this way is open to all who believe—both Jews and Gentiles.

Trusting in Jesus Christ is the only way we all can be saved. We all begin in the same place spiritually, and there is only one way. Faith in Jesus Christ doesn’t mean we understand everything that Christ has done for us, but it does mean that we believe he has done everything for us!

Romans 3:23 (HCSB)

[23]  For all have sinned and fall short of the *[ Or and lack the ] glory of God.

Ro 3:23 Paul has made it clear thus far in his letter that there is no difference between Jews and Gentiles when it comes to final judgment— all have sinned. If the law measures the distance between God and his creatures, then human righteousness is our attempt to bridge that distance by our own efforts. Paul is correct— we all fall short. But what is this glorious standard that we do not reach on our own? The word glory (doxes), from which we derive the word doxology, refers to the wonderful and awe-inspiring but indescribable presence of God himself. Sin keeps us from the presence of God.

Sinning confirms our status as sinners, and sin cuts us off from our holy God. Furthermore, sin leads to death (because it disqualifies us from living with God), regardless of how great or small each sin may seem. Sins are deadly, but sinners can be forgiven. There are no distinctions: we have all sinned; we all need a savior; Jesus Christ is the Savior; through faith we can receive his salvation.

Romans 3:24 (HCSB)

[24]  They are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.

Ro 3:24 Just as there is no distinction in our fallenness, Paul writes, so there is no distinction in the source of our justification. God justifies us; he declares us not guilty for our sins. When a judge in a court of law declares the defendant “not guilty,” all the charges are removed from the person’s record. Legally, it is as if the person had never been accused. When God forgives our sins, our record is wiped clean. From his perspective, it is as though we had never sinned. We do not have to anxiously work while hoping that in the end we will have been good enough to meet God’s approval. Instead, those who believe in Jesus Christ and his sacrifice on the cross are freed— Christ Jesus has taken away our sins. Our righteousness before God depends entirely on him and can only be accepted as a gift from him. God in his gracious kindness assures us of our acceptance and then calls us to serve him as best we can out of sheer love for him.

Romans 3:25,26 (HCSB)

[25]  God presented Him as a propitiation *[ Or as a propitiatory sacrifice , or as an offering of atonement , or as a mercy seat ; see Heb 9:5 . The word propitiation has to do with the removal of divine wrath. Jesus’ death is the means that turns God's wrath from the sinner; see 2Co 5:21 . ] through faith in His blood, to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His restraint God passed over the sins previously committed. [26]  He presented Him to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be righteous and declare righteous *[ Or and justify , or and acquit ] the one who has faith in Jesus.

Ro 3:25-26 In describing how God provided us with undeserved righteousness, Paul alludes to the sacrificial system in the Old Testament (see Lev 17:11 ). Only now, the life offered as sacrifice is not a spotless animal, but Christ. God sent Jesus to take the punishment for our sins. That punishment involved his death—he shed his blood for sinners. Because of what Jesus did on the cross, God can accept those who put their trust in Jesus.

Why did the punishment require shed blood? God had said from the beginning, “For the life of any creature is in its blood . . . It is the blood, representing life, that brings you atonement” ( Lev 17:11 ). But the blood Paul mentions here is a particular blood—it is Christ’s blood. Only the sacrificial death of Christ on the cross was the effective atonement for our sins. Christ stands in our place, having paid the penalty of death for our sin, and he could satisfy God’s anger against us.

If God did not eternally punish those who sinned before Christ lived, then why did Christ die? Paul shows that, at the cross, God forgave the sin of all who believe—Old Testament believers looked forward in faith to Christ’s coming and were saved, even though they did not know Jesus’ name or the details of his earthly life. Unlike the Old Testament believers, we know about the God who loved the world so much that he gave his own Son ( Jn 3:16 ). The question to answer is, Have you put your trust in him?

God is entirely fair and just, both in his inherent character, and in his dealings with sinners. Christ’s death relates to both the past and the present. God did not completely reject his people, the Jews, even though they constantly rejected him. He was not being unfairly generous; rather, he was looking forward to the time when Jesus’ death would be effective for all those who believed in God before Jesus came, as well as those who come after. The only answer to humanity’s plight—that is, death because of sin—was given by God in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This action fulfilled God’s own law and his promises to Israel. The way to receive this answer for ourselves is through faith in Jesus Christ.

Romans 3:27,28 (HCSB)

Boasting Excluded

[27]  Where then is boasting? It is excluded. By what kind of law? *[ Or what principle? ] By one of works? No, on the contrary, by a law *[ Or a principle ] of faith. [28]  For we conclude that a man is justified by faith apart from works of law.

Ro 3:27-28 In conclusion, Paul writes that there is no room for personal pride. There can be no boasting heritage, law, or works. God’s acquittal is not based on our good deeds. It is based on our faith. Why are we made right with God through faith?

• •Faith eliminates the pride of human effort, because faith is not a deed that we do.
• •Faith exalts what God has done, not what people do.
• •Faith admits that we can’t keep the law or measure up to God’s standards—we need help.
• •Faith is based on our relationship with God, not our performance for God.

Most religions prescribe specific duties that must be performed to make a person acceptable to God. Christianity is unique in teaching that the good works we do will not make us right with God. No amount of human achievement or progress in personal development will close the gap between God’s moral perfection and our imperfect daily performance. So there can be no basis for pride. Good deeds are important, but they will not earn us eternal life. We are saved only by trusting in what God has done for us through Jesus Christ (see Ep 2:8-10 ).

Romans 3:29,30 (HCSB)

[29]  Or is God for Jews only? Is He not also for Gentiles? Yes, for Gentiles too, [30]  since there is one God who will justify the circumcised by faith and the uncircumcised through faith.

Ro 3:29-30 Again, the Jews cannot claim sole propriety of God or deny that Gentiles can also receive God’s saving grace. The Old Testament consistently recorded God’s inclusion of the Gentiles in his plans. God had promised Abraham, “All the families of the earth will be blessed through you” ( Ge 12:3 ). Paul simply states the logical necessity. Because there is only one true God, then he is God of all his creation and calls both Jews and Gentiles to faith in him. The question of being right with God will not be settled according to those who have and have not been circumcised, but rather by their faith, whatever their physical lineage.

Romans 3:31 (HCSB)

[31]  Do we then cancel the law through faith? Absolutely not! On the contrary, we uphold the law.

Ro 3:31 Paul envisions the Jewish critic raising a valid question: If we emphasize faith, does this mean that we can forget about the law? Paul answers, Of course not! In fact, only when we have faith do we truly fulfill the law. The law is not something that only the Jews can “do” for God; the law is for both Jews and Gentiles and can only be “done” through faith in Christ. Faith returns the law to its proper place and role in God’s plan for people. Faith does not wipe out the Old Testament; rather, it makes God’s dealings with the Jewish people understandable. (See also 5:20-21 ; 8:3-4 ; 13:9-10 ; Ga 3:24-29; 1Ti 1:8 .)

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Psalms 12:1 (NLTSE)

[12:1]  Help, O LORD, for the godly are fast disappearing!

The faithful have vanished from the earth!

Ps 12:1 Living for God in a deceitful world can be a difficult and lonely battle. At one time the great prophet Elijah felt so lonely he wanted to die. But God told him that there were 7,000 other faithful servants (1Ki 19:4,14,18). We are never alone in our battle against evil. When you feel alone, seek out other believers for strength and support. Cross References: Psalm 12:1—Mi 7:1-2

Psalms 12:2-4 (NLTSE)

[2]  Neighbors lie to each other,

speaking with flattering lips and deceitful hearts.

[3]  May the LORD cut off their flattering lips

and silence their boastful tongues.

[4]  They say, “We will lie to our hearts’ content.

Our lips are our own—who can stop us?”

Ps 12:2-4 We may be tempted to believe that lies are relatively harmless, even useful at times. But God does not overlook lies, flattery, deception, or boasting. Each of these sins originates from a bad attitude that is eventually expressed in our speech. The tongue can be our greatest enemy because, though small, it can do great damage (Jas 3:5,6). Be careful how you use yours. Cross References: Psalm 12:2—Ps 28:3; 41:6; Je 9:8; Ro 16:18 Psalm 12:3—Ps 55:21; 73:8-9

Psalms 12:5 (NLTSE)

[5]  The LORD replies, “I have seen violence done to the helpless,

and I have heard the groans of the poor.

Now I will rise up to rescue them,

as they have longed for me to do.”

Ps 12:5 God cares for the weak and the needy. Here he promises to protect the downtrodden and confront their oppressors. We should identify with God’s attitude. His work is not done until we care for the needs of the poor. Cross References: Psalm 12:5—Ps 3:7; 34:6; 35:10

Psalms 12:6 (HCSB)

[6]  The words of the LORD are pure words, *[Ps 18:30; 119:140; Pr 30:5]
like silver refined in an earthen furnace,
purified seven times.

Ps 12:6 Sincerity and truth are extremely valuable because they are so rare. Many people are deceivers, liars, flatterers; they think they will get what they want by deception. As a king, David certainly faced his share of such people, who hoped to win his favor and gain advancement through flattery. When we feel as though sincerity and truth have nearly gone out of existence, we have one hope—the word of God. God’s words are as flawless as refined silver. So listen carefully when he speaks. Cross References: Psalm 12:6—Ps 19:8-10; 119:140; Pr 30:5

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Today’s Reading from the One Year Bible for July 14th, 2009 – 1 Chronicles 16-18 & Romans 2

1 Chronicles 16:37 (HCSB)

[37]  So David left Asaph and his relatives there before the ark of the LORD’s covenant to minister regularly before the ark according to the daily requirements.

1Ch 16:37 Asaph and his fellow Levites ministered in the Temple, doing each day whatever was needed. To carry out God’s work is not merely to engage in religious exercises. It includes other necessary tasks. Even if you don’t have the opportunity to teach or preach, God can use you in the ministry. What needs to be done—cleaning, serving, singing, planning, administering? Look for ways to minister each day. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 16:37—2Ch 8:14; Ezr 3:4

1 Chronicles 17:1 (HCSB)

The LORD’s Covenant with David

[17:1]  When David had settled into his palace, he said to Nathan the prophet, “Look! I am living in a cedar house while the ark of the LORD’s covenant is under tent curtains.” *[Ex 26:1; Hag 1:4]

1Ch 17:1 David felt disturbed that the Ark, the symbol of God’s presence, sat in a tent while he lived in a beautiful palace. David’s desire was right, but his timing was wrong. God told David not to build a Temple (17:3, 4), and David was willing to abide by God’s timing. If you live in comparative luxury while God’s work, house, or ministers are lacking, perhaps God wants you to change the situation. Like David, take action to correct the imbalance, but be willing to move according to God’s timing.

1 Chronicles 17:16-20 (HCSB)

David’s Prayer of Thanksgiving

[16]  Then King David went in, sat in the LORD’s presence, and said, “Who am I, LORD God, and what is my house that You have brought me this far? [17]  This was a little thing to You, *[ Lit thing in Your eyes ] God, for You have spoken about Your servant’s house in the distant future. You regard me as a man of distinction, *[ [Hb obscure] ] LORD God. [18]  What more can David say to You for honoring Your servant? You know Your servant. [19]  LORD, You have done all this greatness, making known all these great promises because of Your servant and according to Your will. [20]  LORD, there is no one like You, and there is no God besides You, as all we have heard confirms.

1Ch 17:16-20 God told David that Solomon would be given the honor of building the Temple. David responded with deep humility, not resentment. This king who had conquered his enemies and was loved by his people said, "Who am I … that you have brought me this far?" David recognized that God was the true king. God has done just as much for us, and he plans to do even more! Like David, we should humble ourselves and give glory to God, saying, "O LORD, there is no one like you." When God chooses someone else to implement your ideas, will you respond with such humility?

1 Chronicles 18:9-11 (HCSB)

[9]  When King Tou of Hamath heard that David had defeated the entire army of King Hadadezer of Zobah, [10]  he sent his son Hadoram to King David to greet him and to congratulate him because David had fought against Hadadezer and defeated him, for Tou and Hadadezer had fought many wars. Hadoram brought all kinds of items of gold, silver, and bronze. [11]  King David also dedicated these to the LORD, along with the silver and gold he had carried off from all the nations—from Edom, Moab, the Ammonites, the Philistines, and the Amalekites.

1Ch 18:9-11 When David received gifts from King Toi, he dedicated them to God, realizing that they had come from God and were to be used for him. It is easy to think that our financial and material blessings are the result of our own skill and hard work rather than coming from a loving God (Jas 1:17). What has God given you? Dedicate all your gifts and resources to him, and use them for his service. He will lead you in the method you should use. The first step is to be willing.

1 Chronicles 18:13 (HCSB)

[13]  He put garrisons in Edom, and all the Edomites were subject to David. The LORD made David victorious wherever he went. *[2Sa 8:1-14]

1Ch 18:13 The list of battles in this chapter shows how God gave David victory after victory. Unbelieving people think that victory comes from their own skill plus a little luck. Just as David acknowledged God’s role in his success, so should we. Don’t take credit for the work God does.

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Romans 2:1 (HCSB)

God’s Righteous Judgment

[2:1]  Therefore, anyone of you *[ Lit Therefore, O man, every one ] who judges is without excuse. For when you judge another, you condemn yourself, since you, the judge, do the same things.

Ro 2:1 The critic here is Jewish, for Paul is focusing primarily on Jews. Paul had criticized the horrible evil of the Gentiles, their sins of idolatry and homosexuality and their general lifestyle. This Jewish critic nodded in agreement and assumed that he was free from such vices. Many Jews believed that their national heritage would save them; they thought their privilege of birth ensured entrance into God’s Kingdom ( Mt 3:8-9 ). They went to great lengths to separate themselves from “unclean” Gentiles. So when Paul finished his list of characteristics of those whom God will judge (chapter 2 ), Paul knew that his Jewish listeners would agree that such people are terrible and deserve to be punished. But then Paul says that the Jews have no right to pass judgment, because they are just as bad. They are not guiltless and therefore have no excuse. Their attitude freely condemned others’ sins but somehow overlooked those sins in themselves (see Mt 7:2-3 ).

Whenever we find ourselves feeling justifiably angry about someone’s sin, we should be careful. We need to speak out against sin, but we must do so in a spirit of humility. Often the sins we notice most clearly in others are the ones that have taken root in us. If we look closely at ourselves, we may find that we are committing the same sins in more socially acceptable forms. For example, a person who gossips may be very critical of others who gossip about him or her. Cross References: Romans 2:1 — Mt 7:

Romans 2:2 (HCSB)

[2]  We know that God’s judgment on those who do such things is based on the truth.

Ro 2:2 Paul assumes that all his readers will agree with him regarding God’s judgment. Human judgment is based on prejudice and partial perception; God’s judgment is based on the truth—he judges on the basis of the facts about what we do. And there is no doubt that God will punish sinners.

Romans 2:3 (HCSB)

[3]  Do you really think—anyone of you who judges those who do such things yet do the same—that you will escape God’s judgment?

Ro 2:3 Seven times in the first three verses, Paul used various forms of the Greek word for judgment (krima). Though human beings pass judgments, their judgments are judged by God. When we stand condemned before God, we have no higher court of appeal.

Paul ridicules the idea that a person might escape God’s judgment by correctly analyzing the wrong in others. Those Jews, who were guilty of the same sins for which God would judge and condemn the Gentiles, would not escape God’s judgment. All people, Jews and Gentiles, have sinned, and all stand condemned before God. Paul repeats this theme over and over.

Romans 2:4 (HCSB)

[4]  Or do you despise the riches of His kindness, restraint, and patience, not recognizing *[ Or patience, because you do not recognize ] that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?

Ro 2:4 God is kind in giving us life and its fullness to enjoy; he is tolerant and patient as he bears our ingratitude and sin. He postpones punishment in order to give people time to turn from their sin (see 2Pe 3:15 ). But Paul was concerned that these Jews, overconfident in their special status with God and unwilling to repent of sin, were showing contempt for God’s blessings. So Paul reminds them that God’s kindness is also meant to lead them to repentance, because all people need to repent!

Romans 2:5,6 (HCSB)

[5]  But because of your hardness and unrepentant heart you are storing up wrath for yourself in the day of wrath, when God’s righteous judgment is revealed. [6]  He will repay each one according to his works : [Ps 62:12; Pr 24:12]

Ro 2:5-6 This kind of person has sat in self-righteous judgment of others for too long and has lived as described in verse 4 —by showing contempt for all God has given (see also Dt 10:16 and Je 4:4 ). People receive blessings but stubbornly continue in sin, refusing to repent. It is difficult for self-righteous people to repent. Paul’s readers who boasted of their faith yet refused to turn from their sin were storing up terrible punishment when God’s wrath would be poured out upon them.

Though we do not know exactly when that will occur, we do know that no one will escape that day of judgment when God, the just judge of all the world, will judge all people according to what they have done. In the end, what matters most is not exactly when in history the day of God’s wrath arrives, but that the clock is ticking. “It is destined that each person dies only once and after that comes judgment” ( Heb 9:27 ). We do not know the day of the Lord, nor the day of our own death. We will treat both days with more respect if we call them “near.”

God’s judgment will be impartial, and it will be according to what people have done. Final judgment will be based upon character. All people will be held accountable for the truth that was available to them and what they did with it. (See also Job 34:11; Ps 62:12; Pr 24:12; Je 17:10; 32:19; Mt 16:27; 2Co 5:10; Rev 20:12; 22:12 .)

Romans 2:7 (HCSB)

[7]  eternal life to those who by patiently doing good seek for glory, honor, and immortality;

Ro 2:7 This doing what is good is a result of new life in Christ. Real faith generates good works in a believer’s life. To persist in this is a characteristic of the growing and progressing Christian (see Lk 8:15; Heb 12:1; Jas 1:3 ). Again Paul is emphasizing God’s impartial treatment of all people ( Ep 2:8-10 ).

Persistence and hope in God are rewarded by meeting the goal— glory, honor, and immortality in eternal life. In the end, people will receive what they really want. If we desire to be with God, he will gladly fulfill our wish; but if our inmost desire is to keep God at arm’s length, the distance will be preserved forever. Many people want it both ways: They think that eternal life might be nice as long as God doesn’t interfere with their present life. But we must choose. Will we persist in wanting our own way, or in wanting God’s way?

Romans 2:8 (HCSB)

[8]  but wrath and indignation to those who are self-seeking and disobey the truth, but are obeying unrighteousness;

Ro 2:8 Paul still has in mind the self-confident, self-righteous person, who through his own self-seeking has actually turned away from the truth and resisted the gospel, and is following his own evil path. God’s anger and wrath are promised to those who have turned from him, yet are claiming to have a special place with him. They will receive the wrath and anger that they thought would fall on others.

Romans 2:9 (HCSB)

[9]  affliction and distress for every human being who does evil, first to the Jew, and also to the Greek;

Ro 2:9 God’s impartiality and our behavior ensure the final results. There will be trouble and calamity for those who reject God. In simple terms, Jews or Gentiles who do evil, even if they don’t perceive it that way, will receive the consequences of final judgment. Just as the gospel and salvation came first for the Jew and then for the Gentile ( 1:16 ), so will judgment by God. Those self-righteous Jews who thought they were somehow protected from judgment because of their heritage will not only find that they will be judged; they will be first in line!

Romans 2:10 (HCSB)

[10]  but glory, honor, and peace for everyone who does good, first to the Jew, and also to the Greek.

Ro 2:10 In contrast to verse 9 , Jews or Gentiles who do good (those who fulfill the law in Christ), no matter how incomplete they may feel that goodness to be, will receive a reward. As with the consequences of evil, there may be immediate benefits of a right relationship with God, but the full measure of glory, honor, and peace is for the future. Paul’s main point is that God’s judgment is based on truth and results, not on who we are, where we came from, our upbringing, or our intentions. The final question will be, What did you do with what you knew?

Romans 2:11 (HCSB)

[11]  There is no favoritism with God. *[Dt 10:17]

Ro 2:11 God does not show favoritism for Jew over Gentile when it comes to judgment for sin, no matter what the Jews had come to assume or expect. This personally addresses those who adopt Israel’s mind-set that religious heritage guarantees salvation. This verse answers the most common perception on how God will judge. God is usually pictured as the deity who grades on the curve. Those holding this idea almost always express the hope that they are somehow just above the passing line, but they have no way of really knowing. They blatantly hope that God will show favoritism. This verse obliterates that hope. There is no passing line. Instead, sin has created a moral chasm over which no one can leap. The gospel gives us a way to reach the other side. God offers us something far better than favoritism. He offers grace. Having Christian parents or attending the church of our ancestors does not guarantee one’s salvation. Salvation is given to individuals on the basis of personal faith in Jesus Christ.

Romans 2:12 (HCSB)

[12]  All those who sinned without the law will also perish without the law, and all those who sinned under the law will be judged by the law.

Ro 2:12 Gentiles will be judged on the basis of the knowledge available to them. They won’t be condemned for failing to conform to a code of laws they knew nothing about. They will not perish because they didn’t have the Jewish law; they will perish because they have sinned. The Jews will be judged by God’s written law because they had been trained in it. They will be judged for sinning against the law that they knew so well. People are condemned not for what they don’t know, but for what they do with what they know. Those who know God’s written word and his law will be judged by them. Those who have never seen a Bible still know right from wrong; they will be judged guilty because they did not keep even the standards of their own conscience.

Romans 2:13 (HCSB)

[13]  For the hearers of the law are not righteous before God, but the doers of the law will be declared righteous. *[ Or will be justified or acquitted ]

Ro 2:13 Those faithful Jews who attend the synagogues every Sabbath and hear God’s law read over and over may consider themselves to be righteous, but just hearing is not enough, because it is not merely knowing the law that brings God’s approval. Those who do good ( 2:10 ) and those who obey the law will be declared right in God’s sight —this includes both Jews and Gentiles (see also Lev 18:5 and Jas 1:22-25 ). The obedience that Paul describes is perfect and well beyond our reach. Our being made right with God must be sought and found elsewhere. Paul effectively closes many appealing doors while he describes the only one that leads to eternal life.

Romans 2:14 (HCSB)

[14]  So, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, instinctively do what the law demands, they are a law to themselves even though they do not have the law.

Ro 2:14 Some Gentiles who did not know anything about God’s written law had moral sensitivity and lived as though following it. They had the law of conscience. The knowledge of God’s character was available to them, for they knew right from wrong. Their moral awareness will serve in place of the law to judge them.

Paul does not attempt to prove that people are incapable of any good. His point is that not one of us is capable of perfect goodness. At the human level, we all behave more or less in line with the standards of our society. But righteousness is not determined by what most people do, or even by what most people think might be possible for someone who tries very hard. Righteousness is God’s standard, God’s character. Comparisons with others are of no help when we measure ourselves before God’s standard. Ultimately, whatever our background, we will be held accountable by God for our life.

Romans 2:15 (HCSB)

[15]  They show that the work of the law *[ [The code of conduct required by the law] ] is written on their hearts. Their consciences testify in support of this, and their competing thoughts either accuse or excuse them *[ [Internal debate, either in a person or among the pagan moralists] ]

Ro 2:15 All cultures and nations, no matter how different, have a common recognition that some things are right and others are wrong. Gentiles who do not know God’s law have a moral sensitivity in their hearts that matches what God’s law requires. A conscience is an inward monitor that lets us know when we have done wrong. What the law does for the Jew, the conscience does for the Gentile, acting as God’s law written within them.

If you traveled around the world, you would find evidence in every society and culture of God’s moral law. For example, all cultures prohibit murder, and yet in all societies that law has been broken. We belong to a stubborn, sinful race. We know what is right, but we insist on doing what is wrong. It is not enough to know what is right; we must also do it. Admit to yourself and to God that you frequently fail to live up to your own standards (much less to God’s standards). That’s the first step to forgiveness and healing. Cross References: Romans 2:13 — Mt 7:21; Jn 13:17; Jas 1:22-25, Romans 2:14 — Ac 10:35, Romans 2:16 — Ac 10:42; Ro 16:25; 2Ti 2:8

Romans 2:16 (HCSB)

[16]  on the day when God judges what people have kept secret, according to my gospel through Christ Jesus. *[Ac 17:31]

Ro 2:16 The only way to truly judge a person is to judge his or her secret life. Some actions that appear good may be wrongly motivated; other, less visible actions may be done with good intentions. In this manner, both Jews and Gentiles will be judged. In the end, God will judge. Nothing will have to be explained to God. His judgment will be perfect, based on his perfect knowledge of every action and every motive. God will judge through Jesus Christ (see Jn 5:27 ). The gospel Paul preached included the wonderful message that though judgment is inevitable, it will be conducted through Christ’s mediation. For those who are trusting in Christ for their righteousness, God’s judgment does not include the fear of exposure and punishment. As Paul later says joyfully, “There is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus” ( 8:1 ).

The Jews and the Law / 2:17-29

Paul knew that among those in Rome who would vigorously agree with his first chapter, there would be legalistic Jews, proud of their heritage as God’s chosen people. But their agreement with his case would surely turn to anger as they realized that they were being included in the judgment, as equal members in the fallen human race. Possessing God’s law increased both privilege and responsibility. Because these Jews knew more, they were expected to do more. At first they thought they were Paul’s allies, but suddenly they were confronted by him.

Those of us who have grown up in a Christian family are the religiously privileged of today. Paul’s condemnation applies to us if we do not live up to what we know.

Romans 2:17 (HCSB)

Jewish Violation of the Law

[17]  Now if *[ Other mss read Look— ] you call yourself a Jew, and rest in the law, and boast in God,

Ro 2:17 Paul pointed out that Jews had God’s law, worshiped the one true God, knew right from wrong, and yet regarded themselves better than all those who didn’t have the law (i.e., were not Jews). “You boast that all is well between yourself and God.” The kind of knowing and boasting described here is a sham without a life that demonstrates the knowledge. Paul was bluntly asking, “If you claim to be Jewish, why don’t you live up to the name?” We who claim to be Christians, do we live up to this name?

Romans 2:18 (HCSB)

[18]  and know His will, and approve the things that are superior, being instructed from the law,

Ro 2:18 Knowing what God wants and knowing right from wrong are the result of having been taught his law. God’s word is not only a record of God’s will; it is also a guideline to determine what course of action is best for us. Through God’s word we can be trained or instructed in how to appreciate what is good. Yet how often do we, surrounded by a wealth of spiritual resources, live no differently than our pagan neighbors! We need to put our knowledge into action.

Romans 2:19 (HCSB)

[19]  and are convinced that you are a guide for the blind, a light to those in darkness,

Ro 2:19 Paul saw these people as dangerously self-confident. It was apparent from their lives that they could not back up their claims. Paul’s sarcasm here parallels Jesus’ words to the Pharisees, “How terrible it will be for you teachers of religious law and you Pharisees. For you cross land and sea to make one convert, and then you turn him into twice the son of hell as you yourselves are” ( Mt 23:15 ). A Jew would see himself as a guide for the blind, but Jesus repeatedly called them “blind guides” ( Mt 15:14; 23:16,24 ). They claimed to be a beacon light, but were unwilling to recognize the light of the world ( Jn 9:5,39-41 ).

Romans 2:20 (HCSB)

[20]  an instructor of the ignorant, a teacher of the immature, having in the law the full expression *[ Or the embodiment ] of knowledge and truth *[Isa 2:1-4; 42:6-7; 49:6] –

Ro 2:20 The Jews that Paul had in mind considered themselves not only separate from the Gentiles, but also capable of teaching those whom they considered ignorant in spiritual matters. These people knew they had the truth and were proud of it! But assuming the teaching role carries with it heavy responsibility, especially in spiritual training ( Jas 3:1 ). Knowing what ought to be taught is only one part of being an effective teacher. Practicing what is taught is the clearest test of a teacher. If you are a teacher, can you pass this test?

Romans 2:21-23 (HCSB)

[21]  you then, who teach another, do you not teach yourself? You who preach, “You must not steal” — do you steal? [22]  You who say, “You must not commit adultery” — do you commit adultery? You who detest idols, do you rob their temples? [23]  You who boast in the law, do you dishonor God by breaking the law?

Ro 2:21-23 Anyone proud of his spiritual background should take a careful look at himself. The Jews were called to be guides of the Gentiles, and salvation is of the Jews ( Jn 4:22 ), but their response to God’s plan for them had made them arrogant. The Jew of whom Paul was thinking possessed the law and was confident that this position allowed him to teach all those who were ignorant without the law. However, Paul’s questions were designed to force the listener to realize that not all Jews could claim such superiority. Many did not understand God’s law, had false confidence in it, and could not apply it readily to their daily life. Without God’s Spirit and the gospel, they had neither superiority nor all the answers. Having, knowing, and reading the law are not enough.

The Jews needed to teach themselves, not others, by their law. The law is more than legalistic minimum requirements—it is a guideline for living according to God’s will. It is also a reminder that we cannot please God without a proper relationship to him. The general principle is that it is much easier to tell others how to behave than to behave properly ourselves. As Jesus pointed out, even withholding what rightfully belongs to someone else is stealing ( Mk 7:9-13 ); and looking on another person with lustful, adulterous intent is adultery ( Mt 5:27-28 ). Before we accuse others, we must look at ourselves and see if that same sin, in any form, exists within us. The question, do you steal from pagan temples, may be making the contrast between condemning idolatry while in private valuing them so highly that they become worth stealing. By knowing God’s law and then breaking it, the Jews had given God great dishonor. The unmerited honor that God had given Jews by choosing them was being treated with unhealthy pride and outright disrespect.

Each of the questions touches on matters in the Ten Commandments. Theft, adultery, idolatry, and dishonoring God were all prohibited. His assumption is not that every reader would answer yes to each question, but that each reader would find his life spotlighted at least once.

Romans 2:24 (HCSB)

[24]  For, as it is written: The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you. *[Isa 52:5]

Ro 2:24 Those who glory in God’s law and brag about their relationship to him and then live in disobedience bring God into disrepute among nonbelievers. Paul quotes from Isa 52:5 , written about Israel’s exile to foreign lands. It was the Jews’ rampant evil and flouting of God’s law that led to the exile. They had boasted about being God’s chosen people, but because of their sin, their nation was destroyed. The Gentiles despised a God who, it appeared, could not save his own people. Paul’s parallel was that Jews were again resting with false confidence on their being “chosen” and their possession of God’s law. Their sins were still causing Gentiles to blaspheme a God who would choose such a nation.

If you claim to be one of God’s people, your life should reflect what God is like. When you disobey God, you dishonor his name. People may even blaspheme or profane God’s name because of you. What do people think about God as they watch your life? Cross References: Romans 2:24 — Eze 36:20 . This verse quotes or is quoted in Isa 52:5

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Proverbs 19:8 (NLTSE)

[8]  To acquire wisdom is to love oneself;

people who cherish understanding will prosper.

Pr 19:8 Is it good to love yourself? Yes, when your soul is at stake! This proverb does not condone the self-centered person, who loves and protects his or her selfish interests and will do anything to serve them. Instead, it encourages those who really care about themselves to seek wisdom. Cross References: Proverbs 19:8—Pr 16:20

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Today’s Reading from the One Year Bible for July 13th, 2009 – 1 Chronicles 15,16 & Romans 1

1 Chronicles 15:12 (HCSB)

[12]  He said to them, “You are the heads of the Levite families. You and your relatives must consecrate yourselves so that you may bring the ark of the LORD God of Israel to the place I have prepared for it.

1Ch 15:12 The priests purified themselves so they would be prepared to carry the Ark. To purify literally means "to separate," to set apart for sacred purposes, to consecrate. The priests symbolically separated themselves from sin and evil. This was done by washing themselves and their clothing in a special ceremony (Nu 8:5-8). While we are not required to carry out such ceremonies today, we can purify ourselves by reading God’s Word and preparing our hearts to participate in worship. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 15:12—Ex 19:14-15; 2Ch 35:6

1 Chronicles 15:13-15 (HCSB)

[13]  For the LORD our God burst out in anger against us because you Levites were not with us the first time, for we didn’t inquire of Him about the proper procedures.” [14]  So the priests and the Levites consecrated themselves to bring up the ark of the LORD God of Israel. [15]  Then the Levites carried the ark of God the way Moses had commanded according to the word of the LORD: on their shoulders with the poles. *[Ex 25:12-15]

1Ch 15:13-15 When David’s first attempt to move the Ark failed (13:8-14), he learned an important lesson: When God gives specific instructions, it is wise to follow them precisely. This time David saw to it that the Levites carried the Ark (Nu 4:5-15). We may not fully understand the reasons behind God’s instructions, but we do know that his wisdom is complete and his judgment infallible. The way to know God’s instructions is to know his Word. But just as children do not understand the reasons for all their parents’ instructions until they are older, we may not understand all of God’s reasons in this life. It is far better to obey God first and then discover the reasons. We are never free to disobey God just because we don’t understand. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 15:15—Ex 25:14

1 Chronicles 15:29 (HCSB)

[29]  As the ark of the covenant of the LORD was entering the city of David, Saul’s daughter Michal looked down from the window and saw King David dancing *[ Or whirling ] and celebrating, and she despised him in her heart. *[2Sa 6:12-16]

1Ch 15:29 David was willing to look foolish in the eyes of some people in order to express his thankfulness to God fully and honestly. In contrast, Michal was so disgusted by his undignified actions that she could not rejoice in the Ark’s return to Jerusalem. Worship had so deteriorated under the reign of her father, Saul, that it had become stilted and ritualistic. Michal could accept David as a military conqueror and as a king, but she could not accept his free and spontaneous expression of praise to God. Some devoted people may look foolish to us in their heartfelt expressions of worship, but we must accept them. In the same way, we should not be afraid to worship God with whatever expressions seem appropriate.

1 Chronicles 16:4 (HCSB)

[4]  David appointed some of the Levites to be ministers before the ark of the LORD, to celebrate the LORD God of Israel, and to give thanks and praise to Him.

1Ch 16:4 Certain Levites were appointed to give continual praise and thanks to God. Praise and thanksgiving should be a regular part of our routine, not reserved only for celebrations. Praise God continually, and you will find that you won’t take his blessings for granted. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 16:4—1Ch 15:2

1 Chronicles 16:25 (NLTSE)

[25]  Great is the LORD! He is most worthy of praise!

He is to be feared above all gods.

1Ch 16:25 The basis of praise is declaring God’s character and attributes in the presence of others. When we recognize and affirm his goodness, we are holding up his perfect moral nature for all to see. Praise benefits us because it takes our mind off our problems and needs and focuses on God’s power, mercy, majesty, and love. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 16:25—Ps 89:7; 144:3-6

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God’s Anger at Sin / 1:18-32

The remainder of the first chapter paints a picture of the human predicament before a holy God. These verses, when they are read aloud, sound like a list of charges being read in court. All people everywhere deserve God’s condemnation for their sin. They know they are not acknowledging their creator and are deliberately disobeying his standards. The consequences have been disastrous. Sin continues to increase. Before detailing God’s way of salvation, Paul first sets out to convince people of their lost condition and their need for a Savior.

Romans 1:18 (HCSB)

The Guilt of the Gentile World

[18]  For God’s wrath is revealed from heaven against all godlessness and unrighteousness of people who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth,

Ro 1:18 As God’s righteousness was revealed (1:17), so was his wrath. The flip side of God’s righteousness is his wrath against evil. Certain aspects of human character elicit God’s wrath. It is the response of his holiness to all wickedness and rebellion. Why is God angry with sin? Because sinful, wicked people have pushed the truth away from themselves, substituting the truth about him with a fantasy of their own imagination (1:25). They have suppressed the truth God naturally reveals to everyone in order to believe anything that supports their own self-centered lifestyles. Once humans have abandoned God, it will not take long for the effects to be felt in their relationships with each other. God cannot tolerate sin because his nature is morally perfect. He cannot ignore or condone such willful rebellion. He wants to remove the sin and restore the sinner, but the sinner must not distort or reject the truth. But God shows his anger from heaven against those who persist in sinning. While we do not have many idol-worshiping religions in our neighborhoods, we do find those who suppress the truth about God. These people

• replace God with the worship of success, property, and wealth,
• demote God by elevating their own homespun philosophies, and
• ignore God by devoting themselves to family, leisure, and career—rejecting his claim on their lives.

Make sure you are not pursuing a fantasy rather than the true God. Don’t suppress the truth about him merely to protect your own life-style. Cross References: Romans 1:18 — Ep 5:6; Col 3:6

Romans 1:19,20 (HCSB)

[19]  since what can be known *[ Or what is known ] about God is evident among them, because God has shown it to them. [20]  From the creation of the world His invisible attributes, that is, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what He has made. As a result, people *[ Lit they ] are without excuse.

Ro 1:19-20 The truth about God has been clearly revealed by God. The clues to God’s existence and character have traditionally been called general revelation. God could have kept humans in ignorance about himself. But he chose to reveal himself, generally in nature and specifically through the Scriptures and Jesus Christ. Because God has made certain facts about himself known instinctively, people will someday have to give an account before God of why they chose to ignore his existence and his character.

But how could a loving God send anyone to hell, especially someone who has never heard the Good News of Jesus? In fact, says Paul, people have seen the earth and sky and all that God made —therefore, they can clearly see his invisible qualities. Also, everyone has an inner sense of what God requires, but they choose not to live up to it. Put another way, people’s moral standards are always better than their behavior. If people suppress God’s truth in order to live their own way, they have no excuse. They know the truth, and they will have to endure the consequences of ignoring it.

The paradox can’t be missed—all people can “clearly see” God’s “invisible qualities.” How? God created the world with natural processes, with cause and effect. In the same way that observing a painting leads a person to conclude that there is an artist, so to observe the tremendous creation is to conclude that there is a supreme Creator, one with eternal power and divinity. This is part of the truth that unsaved people are suppressing.

One look at creation in all its splendor tells people that a mighty power made this world—but not just an abstract, impersonal force; rather, a personal God ( Ps 19:1-4 ). Thus, creation shows both God’s eternal power and his divine nature. Indeed, nature reveals a God of might, intelligence, intricate detail, order, beauty, and power; a God who controls powerful forces. God’s qualities are revealed through creation ( Ac 14:17 ), although creation’s testimony has been distorted by the Fall. Adam’s sin resulted in a divine curse upon the whole natural order ( Ge 3:17-19 ), thorns and thistles were an immediate result, and natural disasters have been common from Adam’s day to ours. Nature itself is eagerly awaiting its own redemption from the effects of sin ( 8:19-21 ; Rev 22:3 ).

Then why do we need missionaries if people can know about God through nature (the creation)?

• •Although people know that God exists, they suppress that truth by their wickedness and thus deny him. Missionaries can point out their error.
• •Although people may believe there is a God, they refuse to commit themselves to him. Missionaries can help persuade them.
• •Missionaries can convince people who reject God of the dangerous consequences of their actions.
• •Though nature reveals God, people need to be told about Jesus and how through him they can have a personal relationship with God.
• •Missionaries are needed to help the church obey the great commission of our Lord ( Mt 28:19-20 ).

Knowing that God exists is not enough. People must learn that God is loving. They must understand what he did to show that love to us. They must be shown how to accept his forgiveness of their sins.

Romans 1:21 (HCSB)

[21]  For though they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God or show gratitude. Instead, their thinking became nonsense, and their senseless minds *[ Lit hearts ] were darkened.

Ro 1:21 People’s denial of their own awareness of God is what left them without excuse. When Paul says that they knew God, he is not describing a knowledge that could save them but a knowledge that simply recognized God’s existence. He was describing an awareness of God, that, if not suppressed, would be nurtured by God. But since human beings have, in fact, suppressed the truth about God, the following calamities ensued: (1) they wouldn’t worship him as God; (2) they couldn’t give thanks; (3) in the void, they began to think up foolish ideas of what God was like; and (4) in the end their minds became dark and confused.

When people refuse to recognize God as Creator, they will also fail to glorify or thank him for his gifts—food, clothing, shelter, even life itself. When they neglect God, they open the door to evil. To omit what is good inevitably leads to committing what is evil. Ingratitude may seem like a small thing, but it begins the downward spiral into depravity. To forget to thank God for all he is and all he has done reveals a dangerous self-centeredness. This causes futile thinking and planning, darkness, pride, blindness, and finally total departure from God that bursts into a flood of sin.

 

Romans 1:22 (HCSB)

[22]  Claiming to be wise, they became fools

Ro 1:22 Without answers based on the reality of God, people seek heroes among those who claim to be wise and will boldly say there are no answers. Under such circumstances, it is seen as a sign of sophistication and intelligence to refuse to acknowledge God’s existence. But by biblical definition, people who refuse to believe in God are utter fools ( Ps 14:1 ). The evidence of God’s existence is so plain and clear that to ignore it is totally foolish.

To some people, statements like these by Paul appear to be intolerant of other religions and views. The objection is often voiced in a question: “Well, after all, the point is that people are naturally somewhat religious; so isn’t the most important thing not what religion you follow, but that you follow some religion?” The fallacy behind the question is that it still assumes that man is at the center, not God. The emphasis is not on believing what is true but on believing. Paul was speaking in a world that was inundated with gods. He would have been horrified to think that anyone would understand him to be saying that a little religion is a good thing! To Paul, even a lot of religion was bad if it was not true.

Romans 1:23 (HCSB)

[23]  and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man, birds, four-footed animals, and reptiles. *[Ps 106:20; Je 2:11]

Ro 1:23 Whether they claim it or not, people are religious beings. By their very nature, they are bound to worship and serve something beyond themselves. It may be another idea of God, a person, a thing, or even some false notion that no God exists. Anyone who rejects the Creator will end up worshiping the creature. And how foolish that they turn their backs on the glorious, ever-living God in order to worship idols —things created by humans. Because they were created by humans, they owe their existence to humans. This places people in control of their own gods.

How can intelligent people turn to idolatry? Idolatry begins when people reject what they know about God. Instead of looking to him as the Creator and sustainer of life, they see themselves as the center of the universe. They soon invent gods that are convenient projections of their own selfish plans and decrees. These gods may be wooden figures, or they may be things we desire—such as money, power, or comfort. They may even be misrepresentations of God himself—a result of making God in their image, instead of the reverse. The common denominator is this: Idolaters worship the things God made rather than God himself.

Romans 1:24 (HCSB)

[24]  Therefore God delivered them over in the cravings of their hearts to sexual impurity, so that their bodies were degraded among themselves.

Ro 1:24 God left those who spurned him to their own desires. Without his guidance, they degenerated into ruinous moral practices. This rush into sinful patterns can be seen in societies as well as in individuals. When people and nations refuse to repent, sin takes over and draws people into a life where there is no sense of right and wrong. Without God’s remedy, his righteousness, the end is destruction.

Here Paul introduces the subject of sexual impurity. He returns to it in verses 26 and 27. The context indicates that he is referring in part to cultic prostitution and the fertility cults that made use of temple prostitutes in their rites. Throughout history, paganism has shown a remarkable capacity for substituting the pursuit of sexual pleasure for the pursuit of holiness. Rejection of God is often accompanied by deification of sex or reproduction. Because people ignored their innate awareness of godly restraints, personal desire became the standard of behavior. Paul did not hesitate to point out the devastating effects of sin on the most personal aspects of human life. Without God’s righteousness, wrong rules.

Romans 1:25 (HCSB)

[25]  They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served something created instead of the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen .

Ro 1:25 Just as people exchanged the glory of God for lackluster images ( 1:23 ), they also traded what they knew was the truth about God for lies. These people have completely turned their back on God and replaced him with things that they then worshiped. Although many may refuse to acknowledge God’s existence, that doesn’t change the truth of his existence and the fact that he will indeed be praised forever. God’s worthiness to be praised is not affected by human beings’ rebellion or their poor choices. God will be praised forever, though there are many who, by their deliberate exchange of truth for lies, will not be present to participate.

People tend to believe lies that reinforce their own selfish, personal beliefs. Today, more than ever, we need to know what the basis is for our beliefs. With TV, music, movies, and the rest of the media often presenting sinful life-styles and unwholesome values, we find ourselves constantly bombarded by attitudes and beliefs that are totally opposed to the Bible. Be careful about what influences you to form your opinions. The Bible is the only standard of truth. Evaluate all other opinions in light of its teachings.

Romans 1:26,27 (HCSB)

From Idolatry to Depravity

[26]  This is why God delivered them over to degrading passions. For even their females exchanged natural sexual intercourse *[ Lit natural use ] for what is unnatural. [27]  The males in the same way also left natural sexual intercourse *[ Lit natural use ] with females and were inflamed in their lust for one another. Males committed shameless acts with males and received in their own persons *[ Or in themselves ] the appropriate penalty for their perversion. *[ Or error ]

Ro 1:26-27 There have always been those willing to believe that human desires are self-regulating. They do not believe that any action they enjoy could possibly be wrong. When the desire for the true God is rejected, other gods are raised up. When the desire for God is rejected, shameful desires take control. When people refuse God and his standards, when they are left to themselves as their own gods, nothing can stop them from seeking to fulfill their passions. Perversions of sex became rampant. God’s plan for natural sexual relationships is his ideal for his creation. It is the height of foolishness to think that any sex act is acceptable as long as “no one gets hurt.”

Paul’s treatment of homosexual behavior falls in the middle of two other major areas at which God shows anger ( 1:18 ). The first is sinful worship; the third is a whole list of personal and relational sins. It is important to note that Paul is using homosexual practices to indicate the extent to which sin has brought chaos into every area of life. Homosexuality (to exchange or abandon natural relations of sex) was as widespread in Paul’s day as it is in ours. Many pagan practices encouraged it. God is willing to receive anyone who comes to him in faith, and Christians should love and accept others no matter what their background. But homosexual behavior is strictly forbidden in Scripture (see Lev 18:22 ). Homosexuality is considered an acceptable practice by many in our world today—even by some churches. But society does not set the standard for God’s law. Many homosexuals believe that their desires are normal and that they have a right to express them. But God does not obligate nor encourage us to fulfill all of our desires (even normal ones). Desires that violate God’s laws must be controlled. God offers freedom from those sins through Jesus Christ and power to control our desires through the Holy Spirit.

Sin has a penalty, and the punishment is in keeping with the offense. The exact consequences of sin are not predictable, but they are inevitable. These people cannot call themselves helpless victims; a sinful choice was made, and it carries its penalty. Unfortunately, the due penalty also has a way of spilling over into other lives. The connectedness of everything in creation makes it almost impossible to confine sinful penalties. Often a truly painful consequence is seeing how a sin we unleashed affects others.

If you have these desires, you can and must resist acting upon them. Consciously avoid places or activities you know will kindle temptations. Don’t underestimate the power of Satan to tempt you, or the potential for serious harm if you continue to yield to these temptations. Remember, God can and will forgive sexual sins just as he forgives other sins. Surrender yourself to God, asking him to show you the way out of sin and into the light of his freedom and his love. Prayer, Bible study, and loving support of Christians in a Bible-believing church can help you to gain strength to resist these powerful temptations. If you are already deeply involved in homosexual behavior, seek help from a trustworthy, professional, Christian counselor.

Romans 1:28 (HCSB)

[28]  And because they did not think it worthwhile to have God in their knowledge, God delivered them over to a worthless mind to do what is morally wrong.

Ro 1:28 Humans sat in judgment on God to decide whether he fit the qualifications of a God that would be to their liking; they decided he did not meet those qualifications and so refused to acknowledge him. They had the knowledge (they were not ignorant), but they did not want to use it. In our own times we have seen a belittling of God as no more than a pale extension of our wishful thinking, someone made in our image. Yet those most vocal in condemning the authoritative Christian view of God have been busy at work creating people who think of themselves as gods. Paul’s discussion is not out-of-date. The same rebellion against God is alive in the human heart.

When people choose to reject God, he allows them to do so. Their minds become depraved, and they lose the ability to distinguish between right and wrong. Their evil minds lead them to do things that should never be done, indicating acts not just offensive to God, but also offensive by human standards. God does not usually stop us from making choices against his will. He lets us declare our supposed independence from him, even though he knows that in time we will become slaves to our own rebellious choices—we will lose our freedom not to sin. Does life without God look like freedom to you? Look more closely. There is no worse slavery than slavery to sin.

Romans 1:29 (HCSB)

[29]  They are filled with all unrighteousness, *[ Other mss add sexual immorality ] evil, greed, and wickedness. They are full of envy, murder, disputes, deceit, and malice. They are gossips, [30]  slanderers, God-haters, arrogant, proud, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, [31]  undiscerning, untrustworthy, unloving, *[ Other mss add unforgiving ] and unmerciful.

Ro 1:29-31 That these people’s lives became full of every kind of wickedness suggests a state of being filled to the point of overflowing. Once the mind of man had become depraved ( 1:28 ), it followed that the creative power of thought was turned to the pursuit of evil. Paul listed over twenty different ways in which the mind can be focused once it has turned away from God. (For similar lists, see 1Co 6:9-10; Ga 5:19-21 ; and Col 3:5 .) The catalog of sins may not be in any particular order, but it emphasizes the extent of the evidence against humanity. Who cannot find in himself more than one among these qualities?

Romans 1:32 (HCSB)

[32]  Although they know full well God’s just sentence—that those who practice such things deserve to die *[ Lit things are worthy of death ] — they not only do them, but even applaud *[ Lit even take pleasure in ] others who practice them.

Ro 1:32 In the previous verses Paul pointed out several results when God abandons people to pursue their evil desires. He was convinced that each person in rebellion against God perceives the final outcome of that rebellion. But even the finality of death is ignored by many.

How are people fully aware of God’s death penalty? Human beings, created in God’s image, have a basic moral nature and a conscience. This truth is understood beyond religious circles. Psychologists, for example, say that the rare person who has no conscience has a serious personality disorder, one that is extremely difficult to treat. Most people instinctively know when they do wrong—but they may not care. Not only have they turned their backs on God and realized that their deeds deserve the ultimate penalty of death, they also are continuing in their sin and encouraging it in others.

The cause for the appalling condition of our world—the horrible perversions and the rampant evil—lies in people’s rebellion against God. Although knowledge of God is accessible, people turn their backs on it, close their minds to it, and go their own way, worshiping whatever they choose. With this stroke, Paul places the final touches on the dismal picture of man’s condition apart from God. From here, he will move on to deal with those who might use their knowledge of God as an excuse for missing his righteousness.

Does life without God look like freedom to you? Look more closely. There is no worse slavery than slavery to sin. Cross References: Romans 1:24 — Ac 14:16, Romans 1:30 — 2Ti 3:2, Romans 1:31 — 2Ti 3:3

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Today’s Psalm – Psalms 10:1 (NLTSE)

[10:1]  O LORD, why do you stand so far away?

Why do you hide when I am in trouble?

Ps 10:1 "Why do you hide when I need you the most?" To the psalmist, God seemed far away. But even though the writer had honest doubts, he did not stop praying or conclude that God no longer cared. He was not complaining but simply asking God to hurry to his aid. It is during those times when we feel most alone or oppressed that we need to keep praying, telling God about our troubles. Cross References: Psalm 10:1—Ps 13:1; 22:1; 55:1

Psalms 10:4-6 (NLTSE)

[4]  The wicked are too proud to seek God.

They seem to think that God is dead.

[5]  Yet they succeed in everything they do.

They do not see your punishment awaiting them.

They sneer at all their enemies.

[6]  They think, “Nothing bad will ever happen to us!

We will be free of trouble forever!”

Ps 10:4-6 Some people succeed in everything they do, and they brag that no one, not even God, can keep them down. We may wonder why God allows these people to amass great wealth while they despise him as they do. But why are we upset when the wicked prosper? Are we angry about the damage they are doing or just jealous of their success? To answer these questions, we must gain the right perspective on wickedness and wealth. The wicked will surely be punished because God hates their evil deeds. Wealth is only temporary. It is not necessarily a sign of God’s approval on a person’s life; nor is lack of it a sign of God’s disapproval. Don’t let wealth become your obsession. See Pr 30:7,8 for a prayer you can pray. Cross References: Psalm 10:4—Ps 14:1; 36:1-2 Psalm 10:5—Ps 28:5; 52:7 Psalm 10:6—Ps 30:6-7; 49:11

Psalms 10:10,11 (NLTSE)

[10]  Their helpless victims are crushed;

they fall beneath the strength of the wicked.

[11]  The wicked think, “God isn’t watching us!

He has closed his eyes and won’t even see what we do!”

Ps 10:11 There is an incompatibility between blind arrogance and the presence of God in our hearts. The proud person depends on himself rather than on God. This causes God’s guiding influences to leave his life. When God’s presence is welcome, there is no room for pride because he makes us aware of our true selves. Cross References: Psalm 10:11—Ps 10:4

Psalms 10:14 (NIV)

[14]  But you, O God, do see trouble *[ ver 7 ; Ps 22:11] and grief;

you consider it to take it in hand.

The victim commits himself to you; *[Ps 37:5]

you are the helper *[ S Dt 33:29; Ps 68:5] of the fatherless.

Ps 10:14 God sees and takes note of each evil deed, encourages us, and listens to our cries (10:17). He is always with us. We can face the wicked because we do not face them alone. God is by our side. Cross References: Psalm 10:14—Ps 9:12; 22:9-11; 37:5

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Today’s Reading from the One Year Bible for July 12th, 2009 – 1 Chronicles 12-14 & Romans 1

1 Chronicles 12:22 (HCSB)

[22]  At that time, men came day after day to help David until there was a great army, like an army of God. *[ Or like the ultimate army ]

1Ch 12:22 David “had a great army, like the army of God.” Men were drawn to David by the reputation of his great warriors, the news of their victories, and their desire to see God’s will done in making David king. People are often drawn to a great cause and the brave, determined people who support it. As believers, we have the greatest cause—the salvation of people. If we are brave, determined, and faithful, others will be drawn to work with us. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 12:22—Jos 5:13-15

1 Chronicles 12:32 (NLTSE)

[32]  From the tribe of Issachar, there were 200 leaders of the tribe with their relatives. All these men understood the signs of the times and knew the best course for Israel to take.

1Ch 12:32 The 200 leaders from the tribe of Issachar “understood the temper of the times.” As a result, their knowledge and judgment provided needed help in making decisions for the nation. For leaders today, it is equally necessary to know what is happening in society in order to plan the best course of action for the church. Knowledge of current events, trends, and needs helps us understand people’s thoughts and attitudes. This gives leaders information to help them make wise decisions for the church and make God’s message relevant to people’s lives. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 12:32—Es 1:13; Ps 12:2

1 Chronicles 13:1 (HCSB)

David and the Ark

[13:1]  David consulted with all his leaders, the commanders of hundreds and of thousands.

1Ch 13:1 David took time to confer with all his officers. As king, he had ultimate authority and could have given orders on his own, but he chose to involve others in leadership. Perhaps this is why there was unanimous support for his decisions (13:1-5). When we are in charge, it is tempting to make unilateral decisions, pushing through our own opinions. But effective leaders listen carefully to others’ opinions, and they encourage others to participate in making decisions. Of course, we should always consult God first. We can run into big problems if we don’t talk to him (see the note on 13:10). Cross References: 1 Chronicles 13:1-4—This passage parallels 2Sa 6:1-11

1 Chronicles 13:8 (HCSB)

[8]  David and all Israel were celebrating with all their might before God with songs and with lyres, harps, tambourines, cymbals, and trumpets.

1Ch 13:8 Worship in the Old Testament was more than a sober religious exercise. David’s exuberance as he worshiped God with dancing and music is approved in Scripture. Our worship should reflect a healthy balance: Sometimes we should be reflective and serious (see Ex 19:14 ff), and sometimes we should show enthusiasm and jubilation. What do you need—more serious reflection or more joyous celebration? Cross References: 1 Chronicles 13:8—1Ch 15:13-16

1 Chronicles 13:10-14 (HCSB)

[10]  Then the LORD’s anger burned against Uzzah, and He struck him dead because he had reached out to the ark. So he died there in the presence of God.

[11]  David was angry because of the LORD’s outburst against Uzzah, so he named that place Outburst Against Uzzah, *[ Or Perez-uzzah ] as it is still named today. [12]  David feared God that day, and said, “How can I ever bring the ark of God to me?” [13]  So David did not move the ark of God home *[ Lit to himself ] to the city of David; instead, he took it to the house of Obed-edom the Gittite. *[1Ch 26:4] [14]  The ark of God remained with Obed-edom’s family in his house for three months, and the LORD blessed his family and all that he had. *[2Sa 6:3-11]

1Ch 13:10-14 Uzzah died instantly for touching the Ark, but God blessed Obed-edom’s home where the Ark was stored. This demonstrates the two-edged aspect of God’s power: He is perfectly loving and perfectly just. Great blessings come to those who obey his commands, but severe punishment comes to those who disobey him. This punishment may come swiftly or over time, but it will come. Sometimes we focus only on the blessings God gives us, while forgetting that when we sin, “It is a terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living God” (Heb 10:31). At other times, however, we concentrate so much on judgment that we miss his blessings. Don’t fall into a one-sided view of God. Along with God’s blessings comes the responsibility to live up to his demands for fairness, honesty, and justice. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 13:13—2Ch 25:24-25 1 Chronicles 13:14—1Ch 26:4-5

1 Chronicles 14:2 (HCSB)

[2]  Then David knew that the LORD had established him as king over Israel and that his kingdom had been exalted for the sake of His people Israel.

1Ch 14:2 God gave David honor and success, but not simply for David’s personal gain. David realized that God had prospered him for a special reason—for the sake of God’s people! Often we are tempted to use our position or possessions only for our own good. Instead, we must remember that God has placed us where we are and given us all we have so that we may encourage others and give to those in need.

1 Chronicles 14:10 (HCSB)

[10]  so David inquired of God, “Should I go to war against the Philistines? Will You hand them over to me?”

The LORD replied, “Go, and I will hand them over to you.”

1Ch 14:10 Before David went to battle, he inquired of God first, asking for his presence and guidance. Too often we wait until we are in trouble before turning to God. By then the consequences of our actions are already unfolding. Do you ask for God’s help only as a desperate last resort? Instead, go to him first! Like David, you may receive incredible help and avoid serious trouble.

1 Chronicles 14:12 (HCSB)

[12]  The Philistines abandoned their idols there, and David ordered that they be burned in the fire.

1Ch 14:12 Often the soldiers wanted to keep souvenirs from the battle (and 2Sa 5:21 states that some of the men kept some of these idols), but David ordered them to burn the idols. The only proper response to sin is to get rid of it completely. You cannot be a follower of God while continuing to hold on to parts of your life where God is not the center of your thoughts and actions. Eliminate whatever takes God’s rightful place in your life, and follow him with complete devotion.

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Romans 1:1 (HCSB)

God’s Good News for Rome

[Ro 1:1]  Paul, a slave of Christ Jesus, called as an apostle *[ Or Jesus, a called apostle ] and singled out for God’s good news-

Ro 1:1 Paul wrote this letter to the church in Rome. Neither he nor the other church leaders, James and Peter, had yet been to Rome. Most likely, the Roman church had been established by believers who had been at Jerusalem for Pentecost (Ac 2:10) and by travelers who had heard the Good News in other places and had brought it back to Rome (for example, Priscilla and Aquila, Ac 18:2; Ro 16:3-5). Paul wrote the letter to the Romans during his ministry in Corinth (at the end of his third missionary journey just before returning to Jerusalem; Ac 20:3; Ro 15:25) to encourage the believers and to express his desire to visit them someday (within three years he would). The Roman church had no New Testament because the Gospels were not yet being circulated in their final written form. Thus, this letter may well have been the first piece of Christian literature the Roman believers had seen. Written to both Jewish and Gentile Christians, the letter to the Romans is a systematic presentation of the Christian faith. Cross References: Romans 1:1—1Co 1:1; Phl 1:1

Ro 1:1 Paul humbly calls himself Jesus Christ’s slave and an apostle (“one who is sent”). For a Roman citizen—which Paul was—to choose to be a slave was unthinkable. But Paul chose to be completely dependent on and obedient to his beloved Master. What is your attitude toward Christ, your Master? Our willingness to serve and obey Jesus Christ enables us to be useful and usable servants to do work for him—work that really matters.

Romans 1:2 (HCSB)

[2]  which He promised long ago through His prophets in the Holy Scriptures-

Ro 1:2 The Good News had been promised long ago by God and was not a new religion made up by Paul or anyone else. It was rooted in God’s promises in the Old Testament to his people through his prophets. The gospel that Paul preached was in perfect continuity with God’s earlier words in the Scriptures to his people, Israel. Both the Jews and Gentiles in the church of Rome needed to be reminded that the gospel is an ancient message of God’s plan for his creation. This was on Paul’s mind and is a recurring theme throughout the letter. Even though the church in Rome consisted mostly of Gentiles and former converts to the Jewish faith, Paul reminded them all that, in their acceptance of the gospel, they were not casting off the holy Scriptures in order to embrace Jesus as the Christ. Rather, they were discovering and responding to the outworking of God’s eternal plan. The prophets in the Old Testament announced the coming fulfillment of God’s grace in Christ.

Romans 1:3 (HCSB)

[3]  concerning His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who was a descendant of David *[ Lit was of the seed of David ] according to the flesh

Ro 1:3 After introducing the messenger (himself), the message (gospel), and the source (God), Paul turns to the subject of the message. In verses 3-5, Paul summarizes the Good News about Jesus Christ. The central focus of the gospel is Jesus, God’s Son, who was both human and divine (see Lk 3:31; 2Ti 2:8). Jesus was born into King David’s royal family line, in Bethlehem, and of David’s tribe (Judah). King David was promised a kingdom without end (2Sa 7:12-16). In the birth of Jesus Christ, the eternal King of kings, that promise was fulfilled. In Christ’s humanity we see his identification with us and his excellence as our example. In Christ’s divinity we see his worthiness to take our place in receiving the punishment for sin that is due us. We separate Christ’s human and divine natures for understanding and discussion, but in fact, they cannot be separated. Jesus is and will always be the God-man, our Lord and Savior.

Romans 1:4 (HCSB)

[4]  and was established as the powerful Son of God by the resurrection from the dead according to the Spirit of holiness. *[ Or the spirit of holiness , or the Holy Spirit ]

Ro 1:4 Jesus’ entire life, from his human conception to his resurrection, was planned, promised, and fulfilled by God. His nature as God’s Son was made clear when God powerfully raised him from the dead by means of the Holy Spirit. He was, is, and will always be the Son of God. Christ’s resurrection unmistakably revealed that truth to the world. At the time of his resurrection, Christ was glorified and restored to his full rights and status as Son of God in power (Phl 2:4-9).

Romans 1:5 (HCSB)

[5]  We have received grace and apostleship through Him to bring about *[ Lit Him into , or Him for ] the obedience of faith *[ Or the obedience that is faith , or the faithful obedience , or the obedience that comes from faith ] among all the nations, *[ Or Gentiles ] on behalf of His name,

Ro 1:5 Christians have both privilege and authority. Paul and the apostles received forgiveness (grace) as an undeserved privilege. But they also were given the authority to share the message of God’s forgiveness with others. God also graciously forgives our sins when we repent and put our trust in Christ. In doing this, we are committing ourselves to begin a new life. God’s call may take many forms and many directions, but he does call each believer to be an example of the changed life that Jesus Christ has begun and to spread the word. In Paul’s case, God’s direction became very clear. He was to tell Gentiles everywhere what God has done for them (Ac 9:15). Paul did carry the Good News across the known world, speaking in synagogues, convincing the Gentiles, and even standing before kings. Paul understood his calling, for in Ro 11:13 he states, “God has appointed me as the apostle to the Gentiles.” Paul makes it clear that the gospel is the working out of God’s plan first revealed to the Jews. He also makes it clear that the gospel offered hope to the Gentiles. The desired response to the gospel message was that people will believe and obey him, bringing glory to his name. Faith and obedience are inseparable. Real faith will always lead to obedience; real obedience comes from faith.

Romans 1:6,7 (HCSB)

[6]  including yourselves who are also Jesus Christ’s by calling:

[7]  To all who are in Rome, loved by God, called as saints.

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

Ro 1:6-7 Having stated the scope of his ministry, Paul goes on to include the believers in Rome in God’s plan. These believers may not have been called as apostles, as Paul was, but they certainly had been called to belong to Jesus Christ, to be his very own people. Paul was reminding the Romans that the message of the gospel is larger than its messengers. Even though he had not been able to visit them personally, he was fully aware that they were among those God had intended to reach. The reality of this invitation rests on the truth that God loves people dearly. Before believers are called, they are loved. The church in Rome was primarily made up of Gentiles (1:5-6, 13; 11:13; 15:15-16), although there were a number of Jewish Christians as well. Part of the church may have been Jews who became believers at Pentecost and returned to Rome with the Good News. Ac 2:10-11 states that among the great crowd in Jerusalem who heard Peter’s speech were “visitors from Rome (both Jews and converts to Judaism).” In addition, travelers who had heard the Good News in other places brought it back to Rome (for example, Priscilla and Aquila—Ac 18:2; Ro 16:3-5). Grace is the unmerited favor God gives to the believers; peace refers to the peace that Christ made between us and God through his death on the cross. Only God can grant such wonderful gifts. Paul wants his readers to experience God’s grace and peace in their daily living. In these two words of greeting Paul is combining expressions from Jewish and Gentile customs. Jews wished each other peace (eirene or the Hebrew shalom); Gentiles wished each other grace (charis). Each of these common expressions gained considerable value in Christian use.

God’s Good News / 1:8-17

After formally introducing himself, Paul expresses his feelings toward the Roman believers and his reasons for wanting to visit them. This would disarm objections that might be raised to his coming. Some believers in Rome might think that he was arrogant in trying to extend his influence all the way to the capital of the empire; others might think he was presumptuous in planning to teach the gospel to those who had already heard it; others might even be concerned that he lacked integrity for often expressing his desire to come to Rome but never getting there. Paul does not leave the Romans guessing—he tells them exactly why he wants to come.

Romans 1:8 (HCSB)

The Apostle’s Desire to Visit Rome

[8]  First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you because the news of your faith *[ Or because your faith ] is being reported in all the world.

Ro 1:8 Paul uses the phrase “I thank God through Jesus Christ” to emphasize the point that Christ is the one and only mediator between us and God. Through Christ, God sends his love and forgiveness to us; through Christ, we send our thanks to God (see 1Ti 2:5). Cross References: Romans 1:8—Ro 16:19; 1Th 1:8

Ro 1:8 The Roman Christians, at the Western world’s political power center, were highly visible. Fortunately, their reputation was excellent; their strong faith was making itself known around the world. When people talk about your congregation or your denomination, what do they say? Are their comments accurate? Would you rather they noticed other features? What is the best way to get the public to recognize your faith?

Romans 1:9 (HCSB)

[9]  For God, whom I serve with my spirit in telling the good news about His Son, is my witness that I constantly mention you,

Ro 1:9 Paul was a man of prayer. Paul prayed for the Romans the same way that he prayed for the Ephesians (Ep 1:15-16), the Philippians (Phl 1:3-4), the Colossians (Col 1:3-4), and the Thessalonians (1Th 1:2-3). We would expect Paul to pray for his own converts and the churches he helped establish, but these words show that he also prayed for those outside his immediate acquaintance and responsibility. Paul had not personally visited these believers, so he had not yet been able to prove his love for them, but he appeals to God as his witness, confirming his constant prayers for the believers in Rome.

Romans 1:10,11 (HCSB)

[10]  always asking in my prayers that if it is somehow in God’s will, I may now at last succeed in coming to you. [11]  For I want very much to see you, that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to strengthen you,

Ro 1:10-11 Paul also prayed that he could visit these believers. For a long time, Paul had wanted to visit the empire’s capital city, but he had been prevented from doing so (see also 1:13; 15:22; Ac 19:21; 23:11; 28:14-16). Here Paul expresses his continued desire to go, but only if God willed it. Having prayed so often for them, he wanted to visit them in order to minister to them. Paul proposed a trip to Rome to serve, not to be served. He fully intended that his visit would benefit the believers there. What spiritual blessing did Paul want to share? This was not a particular empowering to do something; rather, it was an insight or teaching based on the needs that Paul would find when he got to Rome. It would help them grow strong in the Lord. This letter to them certainly worked toward that end, but Paul also hoped that the spiritual effects of his intended visit would be powerful and mutual.

Romans 1:12 (HCSB)

[12]  that is, to be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine.

Ro 1:12 Paul prayed for the chance to visit these Christians so that he could encourage them with his gift of faith and be encouraged by theirs. As God’s missionary, he could help them understand the meaning of the Good News about Jesus. As God’s devoted people, they could offer him fellowship and comfort. Paul makes it clear that he will not come as simply the teacher and giver—he will be open to be given to and encouraged as well. When Christians gather, everyone should give and receive. Our mutual faith gives us a common language and a common purpose for blessing one another.

Romans 1:13 (HCSB)

[13]  Now I want you to know, *[ Lit I don't want you to be unaware ] brothers, that I often planned to come to you (but was prevented until now) in order that I might have a fruitful ministry *[ Lit have some fruit ] among you, just as among the rest of the Gentiles.

Ro 1:13 As noted above, Paul had tried to come to Rome, but had been prevented. Paul’s original plan was to include Rome in his missionary efforts. Although the church had been established there without his efforts, that fact did not discourage Paul from wanting to visit and work among the believers in order to see more Gentiles become believers and join the church. He had done this in many other cities, and hoped to do so in Rome. By the end of his third missionary journey, Paul had traveled through Syria, Galatia, Asia, Macedonia, and Achaia. The churches that he had begun in these areas consisted mostly of Gentile believers. Paul could make statements like these without a hint of pride. He is making it clear that God directed him into ministry to the Gentiles and that the good results came from God.

Romans 1:14 (HCSB)

[14]  I am obligated both to Greeks and barbarians, *[ Or non-Greeks ] both to the wise and the foolish.

Ro 1:14 What was Paul’s obligation? After his experience with Christ on the road to Damascus (Ac 9), his whole life was consumed with spreading the Good News of salvation. His obligation was to people of the entire world. He met his obligation by proclaiming Christ’s salvation to people—across all cultural, social, racial, and economic lines, both Jews and Gentiles,. We also are obligated to Christ because he took the punishment we deserve for our sins. Although we cannot repay Christ for all he has done, we can demonstrate our gratitude by showing his love to others. Cross References: Romans 1:14—1Co 9:16

Romans 1:15 (HCSB)

[15]  So I am eager to preach the good news to you also who are in Rome.

Ro 1:15 Paul had already visited some of the most beautiful cities of the world—Athens, Corinth, Ephesus—yet he carried an unfulfilled desire to minister in one of the most populated, corrupt places on earth. Neither the power nor the hostility of Rome intimidated Paul. He was convinced that the Good News must be taken everywhere, specifically to the large and needy metropolitan areas of the world. Paul knew that the gospel had already gained a foothold in Rome—the believers to whom he was writing had heard and had responded. But Paul wanted to preach God’s Good News more fully. This letter to the Romans is the introductory statement of all that Paul wanted these believers to understand more fully.

Memory Verse – Romans 1:16 (HCSB)

The Righteous Will Live by Faith

[16]  For I am not ashamed of the gospel, *[ Other mss add of Christ ] because it is God’s power for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, and also to the Greek.

Ro 1:16 Verses 16 and 17 summarize the thrust of the rest of Paul’s letter and give the reason behind Paul’s missionary zeal. Paul was ready, even eager (1:15), to preach at Rome. And he was not ashamed of this Good News about Christ, even though the gospel was held in contempt by those who did not believe and even though those who preached it could face humiliation and suffering. Paul was not intimidated by the intellect of Greece nor the power of Rome. Paul was not ashamed, because he knew from experience that the gospel had the power to save everyone who believes and then to transform their lives. The Greek word for power (dunamis) is the source for our words dynamite and dynamic. Dynamite was not invented by Nobel until 1867, so it is obvious that Paul did not have that specific picture in mind. Instead, the inventor of the explosive took its name from the Greek. But the parallel is instructive. The Good News, as the power of God, can be like spiritual dynamite. Under certain circumstances it has a devastating, even destructive effect, demolishing world views and traditions—paving the way for new construction. Placed inside a stone-hard heart that is resistant to God, it can shatter the barrier. God’s power in the gospel is not only explosive; it also overcomes evil. The only way to receive salvation is to believe in Christ. This offer is open to all people. The gospel is powerful because the power of God resides in it by nature. The Good News is the inherent power of God that gives salvation to all who accept it. Salvation can only happen when a person believes. The Jews were given first invitation because they had been God’s special people for more than 2,000 years, ever since God chose Abraham and promised great blessings to his descendants (Ge 12:1-3). God did not choose them because they deserved to be chosen (Dt 7:7-8; 9:4-6), but because he wanted to show his love and mercy to them, teach them, and prepare them to welcome his Messiah into the world. For centuries Abraham’s descendants had been learning about God by obeying his laws, keeping his sacrifices and feasts, and living according to his moral principles. Often they forgot God’s promises and requirements and had to be disciplined; but still they had a precious heritage of belief in the one true God. Of all the people on earth, the Jews should have been the most ready to welcome the Messiah and to understand his mission and message—and some of them were. The disciples and Paul were faithful Jews who recognized in Jesus God’s most precious gift to the human race (see Lk 2:25,36-38). The Jews were given the first opportunity to receive the Messiah during his ministry on earth (Jn 1:11) and during the days of the early church (Ac 1:8; 3:26). Although Paul was commissioned as the apostle to the Gentiles (Ac 9:15), even he followed this pattern. Whenever Paul went to a new city, he recognized his obligation to carry the Good News to the Jews first (Ac 13:45-46; 28:25,28).

When you are tempted to be ashamed, remember what the Good News is all about. If you focus on God and on what God is doing in the world rather than on your own inadequacy, you won’t be ashamed or embarrassed. Cross References: Romans 1:16 — Ac 3:26; 1Co 1:18,24

Romans 1:17 (HCSB)

[17]  For in it God’s righteousness is revealed from faith to faith, *[ Or revealed out of faith into faith ] just as it is written: The righteous will live by faith. *[ Or The one who is righteous by faith will live ]Hab 2:4]

Ro 1:17 The message of the Good News tells us how we, sinners as we are, can be made right in God’s sight. It tells how God, who is righteous, can vindicate sinful people. Righteousness is an aspect of God’s character, his standard of behavior, and a description of all that he wishes to give to us. Our righteousness begins because of God’s faithfulness to his promises; it moves on in our response of faith and is a continuing process through life. Thus it is accomplished from start to finish by faith. Faith—unconditional trust—is the appointed way of receiving God’s righteousness. Faith in what? Faith in the fact that Jesus Christ took our sins upon himself, taking the punishment we deserved, and, in exchange, making us righteous before God. By trusting in Christ, our relationship with God is made right both for now and for eternity.

To nail his point, Paul quoted from Hab 2:4, “It is through faith that a righteous person has life.” Righteousness by faith was not a new idea; it is found in the writings of the prophets, with which the Jewish believers would be familiar. This expression means that Christians will live because of God’s faithfulness and because of their response of faith in God; as a result, they will have eternal life and experience fullness in life.

• Faith is personal trust in God.
• Faith is the source of the believer’s new life in Christ.
• Faith justifies us, saves us, and gives us new life and a new lifestyle.

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Psalms 9:13 (NLTSE)

[13]  LORD, have mercy on me.

See how my enemies torment me.

Snatch me back from the jaws of death.

[14]  so that I may declare all Your praises.
I will rejoice in Your salvation
within the gates of Daughter Zion. *[ [Jerusalem] ]

Ps 9:13,14 All of us want God to help us when we are in trouble, but often for different reasons. Some want God’s help so that they will be successful and other people will like them. Others want God’s help so that they will be comfortable and feel good about themselves. David, however, wanted help from God so that justice would be restored to Israel and so that he could show others God’s power. When you call to God for help, consider your motive. Is it to save yourself pain and embarrassment or to bring God glory and honor? Cross References: Psalm 9:13—Ps 30:3; 38:19; 86:13 Psalm 9:14—Ps 13:5; 20:5; 35:9; 51:12; 106:2

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Today’s Reading from the One Year Bible for July 11th, 2009 – 1 Chronicles 11,12 & Acts 28

1 Chronicles 11:1,2 (HCSB)

David’s Anointing as King

[11:1]  All Israel came together to David at Hebron and said, “Here we are, your own flesh and blood. *[ Lit your bone and flesh ] [2]  Even when Saul was king, you led us out to battle and brought us back. The LORD your God also said to you, ‘You will shepherd My people Israel and be ruler over My people Israel.’ ”

1Ch 11:1,2 The details of how David came to power are given more completely in 2 Samuel. Chronicles emphasizes that God declared David to be the ruler although he used the efforts of many people, even some of Saul’s own family. God is still sovereign over history, directing events to accomplish his will. The books of Chronicles demonstrate that no matter what people may do to try to hinder God’s work, God still controls all events and works his will in them. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 11:1-3—This passage parallels 2Sa 5:1-3 1 Chronicles 11:2—2Sa 5:2; 7:7

1 Chronicles 11:9 (HCSB)

[9]  David steadily grew more powerful, and the LORD of Hosts was with him. *[2Sa 5:6-10]

1Ch 11:9 David’s power increased as a direct result of his consistent trust in God. In contrast, Saul’s power decreased because he wanted all the credit for himself and ignored God (1Sa 15:17-26). Those who are concerned about building a name for themselves risk losing the very recognition they crave. Like David, we should be concerned for righteousness, honesty, and excellence and leave the results to God.

1 Chronicles 11:12-14 (HCSB)

[12]  After him, Eleazar son of Dodo the Ahohite was one of the three warriors. [13]  He was with David at Pas-dammim when the Philistines had gathered there for battle. A plot of ground full of barley was there, where the troops had fled from the Philistines. [14]  But Eleazar and David *[ Lit But they ] took their stand in the middle of the plot and defended it. They killed the Philistines, and the LORD gave them a great victory.

1Ch 11:12-14 Eleazar’s action changed the course of a battle. When everyone around him ran, he held his ground and was saved by the Lord. In any struggle, fear can keep us from taking a stand for God and from participating in God’s victories. Face your fear head-on. If you are grounded in God, victory will come when you hold that ground. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 11:12—1Ch 27:4 1 Chronicles 11:13—2Sa 23:11-12

1 Chronicles 11:15-19 (HCSB)

[15]  Three of the 30 chief men went down to David, to the rock at the cave of Adullam, *[1Sa 22:1] while the Philistine army was encamped in the Valley of Rephaim. [16]  At that time David was in the stronghold, *[1Sa 22:4-5; 2Sa 5:9] and a Philistine garrison was at Bethlehem. [17]  David was extremely thirsty *[ Lit And David craved ] and said, “If only someone would bring me water from the well at the city gate of Bethlehem!” [18]  So the Three broke through the Philistine camp and drew water from the well at the gate of Bethlehem. They brought it back to David, but he refused to drink it. Instead, he poured it out to the LORD. [19]  David said, “I would never do such a thing in the presence of God! How can I drink the blood of these men who risked their lives?” For they brought it at the risk of their lives. So he would not drink it. Such were the exploits of the three warriors.

1Ch 11:15-19 These three men risked their lives just to serve and please David. David recognized that their devotion to him was inspired by their devotion to God, so he poured out the water as a drink offering, demonstrating that only God is worthy of such devotion. Just as these men gave of themselves to serve David, we should put aside our own interests to serve other Christians (Ro 12:10). When we serve others, we are also serving God.

1 Chronicles 12:1 (HCSB)

David’s First Supporters

[12:1]  The following were the men who came to David at Ziklag while he was still banned from the presence of Saul son of Kish. *[1Sa 27:1-7] They were among the warriors who helped him in battle.

1Ch 12:1 ff David surrounded himself with great warriors, the best of the Israelite army. What qualities made them worthy to be David’s warriors and servants? (1) They had practiced long and hard to perfect their skills (with bow, sling, and spear); (2) they were mentally tough and determined ("fierce as lions," 12:8); (3) they were physically in shape ("as swift as deer," 12:8); (4) they were dedicated to serving God and David. Weak leaders are easily threatened by competent subordinates, but strong leaders surround themselves with the best They are not intimidated by able and competent followers. Cross References: 1 Chronicles 12:14—Dt 32:30 1 Chronicles 12:15—Jos 3:15; 4:18 1 Chronicles 12:19—1Sa 29:2-9 1 Chronicles 12:21—1Sa 30:1 1 Chronicles 12:23—2Sa 2:3-4; 1Ch 10:14; 11:10 1 Chronicles 12:38—2Sa 5:1-3; 1Ch 12:33

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Acts 28:17-20 (HCSB)

Paul’s First Interview with Roman Jews

[17]  After three days he called together the leaders of the Jews. And when they had gathered he said to them: “Brothers, although I have done nothing against our people or the customs of our forefathers, I was delivered as a prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans [18]  who, after examining me, wanted to release me, since I had not committed a capital offense. [19]  Because the Jews objected, I was compelled to appeal to Caesar; it was not as though I had any accusation against my nation. [20]  So, for this reason I’ve asked to see you and speak to you. In fact, it is for the hope of Israel that I’m wearing this chain.”

Ac 28:17-20 Paul wanted to preach the Good News in Rome, and he eventually got there—in chains, through shipwreck, and after many trials. Although he may have wished for an easier passage, he knew that God had blessed him greatly in allowing him to meet the believers in Rome and preach the message to both Jews and Gentiles in that great city. In all things, God worked for Paul’s good (Ro 8:28). You can trust him to do the same for you. God may not make you comfortable or secure, but he will provide the opportunity to do his work. Cross References: Acts 28:18—Ac 23:29 Acts 28:19—Ac 25:11 Acts 28:20—Ac 26:6

Acts 28:31 (HCSB)

[31]  proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with full boldness and without hindrance.

Ac 28:31 The book of Acts deals with the history of the Christian church and its expansion in ever-widening circles touching Jerusalem, Antioch, Ephesus, and Rome—the most influential cities in the Western world. Acts also shows the mighty miracles and testimonies of the heroes and martyrs of the early church—Peter, Stephen, James, Paul. All the ministry was prompted and held together by the Holy Spirit working in the lives of ordinary people—merchants, travelers, slaves, jailers, church leaders, males, females, Gentiles, Jews, rich, poor. Many unsung heroes of the faith continued the work, through the Holy Spirit, in succeeding generations, changing the world with a changeless message: Jesus Christ is Savior and Lord of all who call on him. Today we can be the unsung heroes in the continuing story of the spread of the Good News. It is that same message that we Christians are to take to our world so that many more may hear and believe.

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Psalms 9:1 (NLTSE)

[9:1]  I will praise you, LORD, with all my heart;

I will tell of all the marvelous things you have done.

Ps 9:1 ff Praise is expressing to God our appreciation and understanding of his worth. It is saying thank you for each aspect of his divine nature. Our inward attitude becomes outward expression. When we praise God, we help ourselves by expanding our awareness of who he is. In each psalm you read, look for an attribute or characteristic of God for which you can thank him. Cross References: Psalm 9:1—Ps 26:7; 86:12 Psalm 9:2—Ps 66:2,4; 92:1; 104:34 Psalm 9:3—Ps 27:2; 56:9 Psalm 9:5—Ps 69:28; 119:21 Psalm 9:6—Ps 34:16; 40:15 Psalm 9:7—Ps 10:16; 89:14-15 Psalm 9:8—Ps 96:13 Psalm 9:9—Ps 18:2; 37:39; 59:9,16-17 Psalm 9:12—Ge 9:5-6; Ps 72:14

Psalms 9:4 (NLTSE)

[4]  For you have judged in my favor;

from your throne you have judged with fairness.

Ps 9:4 God upholds our just cause; he is our vindicator (one who clears us from criticism and justifies us before others). In this life, we may face many injustices: (1) We may be falsely accused and misunderstood by friends and enemies; (2) we may not be truly appreciated by others for the love we show; (3) the true value of our work and service may not be duly rewarded; (4) our ideas may be ignored. But God is to be praised, for he sees and remembers all the good we do, and it is up to him to decide the timing and the appropriateness of our rewards. If we do not trust him to vindicate us, then we will be susceptible to hatred and self-pity. If we do trust him, we can experience God’s peace and be free from the worry of how others perceive us and treat us. Cross References: Psalm 9:4—Ps 47:8; 140:12; 1Pe 2:23

Psalms 9:10 (HCSB)

[10]  Those who know Your name trust in You
because You have not abandoned
those who seek You, LORD. *[Ps 91:14]

Ps 9:10 God will never abandon those who seek him. God’s promise does not mean that if we trust in him we will escape loss or suffering; it means that God himself will never leave us no matter what we face. Cross References: Psalm 9:10—Ps 37:28; 91:14; 94:14

Psalms 9:11 (NLTSE)

[11]  Sing praises to the LORD who reigns in Jerusalem. *[ Hebrew Zion; also in 9:14 . ]

Tell the world about his unforgettable deeds.

Ps 9:11 God does not live only in Jerusalem (or Zion, another name for Mount Moriah, the hill on which the Temple was built); he is everywhere all the time. The focal point of Israelite worship, however, came to be Jerusalem and its beautiful Temple. God was present in the Tabernacle (Ex 25:8,9) and in the Temple built by Solomon (2Ch 7:16). From this central place of worship, the Jews were to tell the world about the one true God. Cross References: Psalm 9:11—Ps 76:2; 105:1

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Proverbs 19:1 (NLTSE)

[19:1]  Better to be poor and honest

than to be dishonest and a fool.

Pr 19:1 A blameless life is far more valuable than wealth, but most people don’t act as if they believe this. Afraid of not getting everything they want, they will pay any price to increase their wealth—cheating on their taxes, stealing from stores or employers, withholding tithes, refusing to give. But when we know and love God, we realize that a lower standard of living—or even poverty—is a small price to pay for personal integrity. Do your actions show that you sacrifice your integrity to increase your wealth? What changes do you need to make in order to get your priorities straight? Cross References: Proverbs 19:1—Pr 20:7; 28:6

Proverbs 19:2 (NLTSE)

[2]  Enthusiasm without knowledge is no good;

haste makes mistakes.

Pr 19:2 We often move hastily through life, rushing headlong into the unknown. Many people marry without knowing what to expect of their partner or of married life. Others try illicit sex or drugs without considering the consequences. Some plunge into jobs without evaluating whether or not they are suitable to that line of work. Don’t rush into the unknown. Be sure you understand what you’re getting into and where you want to go before you take the first step. And if it still seems unknown, be sure you are following God.

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