Tuesday, July 15, 2014

Romans 2:11 - God's Impartiality

Romans 2:11 - For there is no partiality with God.

Message: God doesn't see like man sees. He is impartial not making decisions by the outward.

Time: Written sometime in AD 57-58, probably from Corinth, at the end of Paul's third missionary journey. Chapter 2 seems to be written to the Jew though the Jew is not addressed till verse 17.

What the Lord is Saying:

I don't think it can be any clearer. Verse 9 and 10 use the word "every" to denote that all will be judged. Verse 9 and 10 also speak of the fact that the Jew first and then the Greek (Gentile) so everyone is subject. And then Paul emphasizes it again -- there is no partiality with God. 

no - Greek word ou which means absolutely not.

To be partial is to give judgment based upon outward appearance and not looking inward. This verse is saying that God does not show any partiality because of a person's position or bloodline or association. In fact, the Bible has even told us that God looks at the inward -- thoughts, motives. He knows all.

There is so much effort placed in life on self-improvement and betterment that I would think some people might struggle with the idea that God isn't partial. There is so much focus in life on distinguishing ourselves from others. And yet, God see's us all equally. I can see the comfort in this, but for many, I would think the rich and educated especially, there might be animosity in thinking that God doesn't look at the outward or accomplishments. I think the major point though to realize is God doesn't see us like man see's us. We tend to want to define God based upon what we know as humans about one another. But, God see's differently. He sees beyond the outward. I think because of this, it should remind us how we must always trust God for outcomes and results because we can't see people the way He sees them. 

Promise: God will be the judge. Not me. Trust Him for this and encourage people toward Truth.

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