“For there is no partiality with God.” (Romans 2:11)
We tend to seek out those who are partial to us and likely to treat us with some form of favoritism. It is hard not to. We want to be around people who make us feel good, see the world similar to us, or are likely to flatter us. We typically profess a desire to be treated fairly and impartially, but the reality is most of us want partiality because it means we are in the “in crowd” and enjoy the benefits of validation and admiration… even when we may not deserve that admiration and are not making valid choices.
One of the more terrifying aspects of God is His impartiality. There is no cloak of flattery with Him, nor is there any hope of preferential treatment. When you do what is right, He will praise you, but He will just as openly condemn your mistakes. With God, He doesn’t care about what family you are from, who you know, or what your best friend says about you. He cares whether or not you are right with His Son. Nothing else will save you.
Matthew 4:4 #Biblebites
Today’s Reading: Romans 2:1-11
Questions to ask:
- How is Paul feeling as he writes today’s passage? What is his mood?
- What are the central themes in Paul’s preaching and teaching which are being emphasized, or how are the central themes in this epistle being emphasized in today’s reading?
- How does our reading show Paul’s people skills, especially how he handles conflict?
- What in this passage would change the lives of the believer(s) being addressed? How does it make me a better disciple?
- How does this show the “good news” of the gospel? How can I share that with someone else?
This year, #Biblebites are following the life and writings of Paul. If you would like a copy of the reading schedule, you can view it here: https://eastlandchristians.org/news-events/2023-vision