Theology for Everybody: RomansSample

The existence of the Jewish people is largely positive evidence that God has been faithful to the Jewish people, the physical descendants of Abraham. God said to Abraham, “I’m going to bless you, and through you, I’m going to bring Jesus as the blessing to the nations of the earth.” Many of the Jewish people have been blessed by God. They’ve been faithless toward Him, but He will still be faithful toward them. God has a plan for the Jewish people at the end of human history.

Many people think they are okay with God because God has blessed them. This was the story of the Jewish people. But the truth is this: God may have blessed you, but it doesn’t mean God has saved you. A blessed life doesn’t mean God is “fine” with you. Blessings help in this life, but they do nothing when this life ends if you are not saved. The Jews were blessed, but they were not saved. God was good to them, but they did not have any relationship with Him.

Paul says that at the end of time, God will be faithful, and many Jews will have a change of heart toward Him. Have you had a change of heart toward God? Have you turned from sin and trusted in Him? The most crucial decision you will ever make is what you think about Jesus Christ. The most important thing about you is whether you reject or receive Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Paul’s driving argument is this: All of God’s work in history is of no benefit to you unless you turn from sin and trust in Jesus Christ alone for salvation. None of us can stand before God and say, “I was a good person.” You need to be perfect; good isn’t enough.

God has a plan for His people, and it will all be made possible by mercy. Paul uses “mercy” four times. You and I need mercy. We need mercy from God, and then we must share that mercy with others. This world is sorely lacking in mercy. If you want mercy, then His name is Jesus Christ, and He took your place on the cross. We can only receive mercy because Jesus took the wrath we deserved for our sins.

Today’s Reflection

How can God’s mercy transform your life?