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Questions We Ask Every Time We Read the Bible:

1. What do the verses say?
2. What's the backstory? What's the context?
3. What does it mean? What are the principles of this passage?

Romans Week Two: Romans 2: 3-4, 29

1. What Does This Passage Say?

Last week on the podcast we left off knowing that 1) Romans is going to give us a vision for our life and 2) that we are set up with a problem of sin and need a savior.

This is the chapter of conviction. Paul is preaching that the church has a problem. Some people are worshipping created things, some who call themselves good are passing judgment and condemnation, and all have a sin problem.

“So when you, a mere human being, pass judgment on them and yet do the same things, do you think you will escape God’s judgment? 4 Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance, and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?” (v. 3-4).

“No, a person is a Jew who is one inwardly; and circumcision is circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit, not by the written code. Such a person’s praise is not from other people, but from God.” (v. 29)

2. What’s the Backstory?

Paul sets up this life-giving letter to say that human beings cannot be good on their own. There is no holiness that you can pursue that will make you holy enough for God. We need to ask the question, what am I relying on to make me feel good? What am I relying on to say that I am okay?

Whether your sin is on the outside or inside, we all have the same need for God’s kindness – and that becomes the starting point for the good news.

3. What Does It Mean?
Genuine faith does not come from outward acts, but an inward reality. Heart change is proven over time.

4. What Does It Mean for Me?
I have a problem just as much as anyone – and that problem is my sin. Questions to ask yourself: Do I believe that I need a savior? Do I experience in my own self-awareness that I fall short every day?

Resources:
Help! My Bible Is Alive

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