When you . . . do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? (Rom. 2:3)
Expanded Passage: Romans 2:3-4
Being given a pass from something required of everyone else or avoiding a consequence faced by others often comes with being a part of a class or group that has special protections or privileges. Athletes who have a rockstar status on a university campus are sometimes given special exemptions for what is expected of others in the classroom. Another example: it is commonly perceived that there is one law for the wealthy and another for the poor. Those who have deep pockets can often hire the best lawyers who navigate the judicial system more advantageously than those who earn a minimum wage; they are often forced to rely on a burned-out public defender. Because of the privilege afforded by their wealth, the rich often have a better chance of escaping judgment.
The Jews were convinced that due to their special status with God as his chosen ones they could skate with impunity should they commit the same sins they so quickly judged in the Gentiles. In other words, we are God’s people, loved by him even when we sin. Paul warns his Jewish kin, “Not so fast!”
Likewise, while you and I bask in our relationship with a kind and good God, we cannot allow ourselves to become cavalier toward sin, convincing ourselves that God will overlook our disobedience because of his kindness. God is kind, but not soft.
Thank God that his judgment is based on truth, not privilege or status.
Ed Rotz has served The Wesleyan Church as a pastor and district superintendent. He currently works for PastorServe, Inc. and lives in Topeka, Kansas with his wife, Sharon.
© 2024 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
