In the last half of Romans 2 Paul presents two hypothetical assumptions claimed by those who are religious. Then he asks some rhetorical questions, and concludes with an affirmation of truth.
He states the hypothetical with the word, “if,” in verses 17-19. If you feel you have it all together and conclude you’re OK, Paul has some questions for you. Also, if you think, because you have it all together, you have the authority to instruct, direct and judge others, Paul has questions for you as well.
Are you walking the talk? Is your behavior and expressed attitude authentic? If your answer is “No,” you dishonor God. He quotes Ezekiel 36:22, “God’s name is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you.” It’s not your pedigree, possessions or privileged position that counts with God. It’s a changed life. It’s a life, which has been changed inwardly, a “circumcision of the heart, by the Spirit” (verse 29).
Religious men praise you if you jump through the proper religious, ceremonial hoops. God accepts, praises and blesses the one who humbly submits to the Holy Spirit’s work of convicting, convincing, converting and then conforming them inwardly into Christlikeness. The Holy Spirit does this in response to faith. Short of this you will find yourself a lawbreaker and rejected by a holy God.
Examine yourself in the light of these truths and ask God to use the truth to set you free by His provision of salvation through Christ. Ask yourself, are you walking your talk and practicing your profession?
