RomansSample

Romans 2
Which Package Are You Passing?

Picture two games of "pass the parcel" happening side by side. One group unwraps layer after layer to find small gifts, laughter, and eventually, a beautiful prize. In the other group, each layer reveals something unpleasant. The music keeps playing, but no one looks forward to when it stops.

This is the picture Paul paints in Romans 2. Two life paths. Two sets of choices. Two outcomes.

One path is filled with goodness, unfading glory, honor, and peace. Not because of perfect performance, but because of lives surrendered to God’s grace, lived out in righteousness. Romans 2:7 puts it plainly: “For those living in constant goodness and doing what pleases Him… will experience eternal life.” Each choice of righteousness unwraps another layer of blessing. Forgiveness brings goodness. Honesty brings honor. Generosity reveals imperishable virtue. Peace follows obedience. As Paul writes in verse 10: “We can expect unfading glory, true honor, and a continual peace.”

But the other path is destructive. It’s filled with wrath, guilt, selfishness, and distress. “But those governed by selfishness and self-promotion… will experience the fullness of wrath,” says Romans 2:8. When we choose bitterness, pride, rebellion—we unwrap consequences. Each layer reveals pain. It builds. It accumulates.

This is not about earning salvation. That was secured by Jesus. But our daily choices do matter. Romans 2:6 reminds us: “He will give to each one in return for what he has done.” Our decisions unwrap either blessing or discipline. We’re not trapped. We can switch circles. God’s grace always offers a way into the better game.

And the heart behind it all? Kindness. Romans 2:4 says it clearly: “His extravagant kindness is meant to melt your heart and lead you into repentance.” This is not a God who waits to punish, but One whose love is fierce enough to discipline and gentle enough to draw.

In the end, it’s not about the game at all. It’s about a love story. God isn’t after grudging obedience—He desires lovers who delight in choosing Him. As His kindness melts our resistance, our obedience becomes affection, our choices become devotion.

The music is playing. The parcel is in your hands.

Which package are you passing?