Romans 2:3

Do you suppose, O man--you who judge those who practice such things and yet do them yourself--that you will escape the judgment of God? Romans 2:3 ESV

After spending a substantial amount of time describing mankind in his natural lost state at the end of Chapter 1, Paul in Chapter 2 is again and again warning those who in their self-righteous state think it ok to judge others.

Do you suppose, O man--you who judge those who practice such things and yet do them yourself...

In Paul's day, the people being addressed here were the self-righteous Jews, who thought they were saved based on their traditions and the fact that they were Jews. While this doesn't apply perfectly to all of us today, I think we are very susceptible to falling into the same trap of self righteousness if we are not careful.

The danger here is that the only way to justify judging others for their sin is to downplay or ignore the sin in our lives, which is most likely based in the same root sin of pride and self love. Downplaying or ignoring sin in our lives is a very serious issue, doing so automatically downplays the need for a Savior, and the need to cling to Him and Him alone.



Judgement vs. Discernment

Judgement...
While we are warned not to judge others, we must be able to discern true believers from false imitators within the Church of Christ, without being guilty of a judgmental spirit. In 1 Cor 4:3,4 Paul explains that he is not held accountable to the judgement of any human.

But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself.  For I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me. 

This is true of all of us, we are not to judge or condemn anyone - nor are we judged by any but God.
 

Discernment...
Then, in 1 Cor 5:12,13 Paul explains the importance of keeping the church pure of false teachers and those who only "profess" to be Christains.

For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Is it not those inside the church whom you are to judge? God judges those outside. "Purge the evil person from among you."

It's very clear that we are not to judge those outside the church, yet we are not to allow those who live in opposition to the bible while claiming the name of Christ to go on this way within the Church.


What does this mean?

We know that Scripture does not contradict itself, so how do we combine these two passages, and how do they relate to Romans 2:3?

This is my thought:
It is our responsibility, as stewards, to keep the Church of Christ as pure as possible - by trusting in God's Word, the Holy Bible as our guide.  We cannot judge our fellow brothers based on our personal convictions, and we cannot judge our brother for waging war against any particular sin. However, we must address any situation where sin is openly and freely committed, without any remorse - this lifestyle either indicates an usaved soul which must be exposed (for their good as well as the church), or this is a poor saved soul who is in deep need of loving support and prayer. Either way, this situation must be dealt with.


 ...that you will escape the judgment of God...

Paul finishes the sentence in verse 3 by asking if those guilty are under the impression that they will escape the judgement of God. It's important to have a healthy, respectful fear of God -  knowing that His judgement is perfectly just...and none will escape it. Only by the blood of Christ, and His righteousness, will we be found not guilty. If we look at ourselves with this mindset, we can deal a mighty blow to the sin of self-righteousness. It's hard to be self righteous when we spend time meditating on the fact that we are just as guilty as the next guy...apart from God's amazing grace!


Instead of focusing on others shortcomings, or how other Christians act, talk, or dress...let's spend every bit of energy we have showing God's awesome love, mercy, and grace to all that we come into contact with. Let God's light cut through the darkness...and as the darkness flees and true hearts are revealed...maybe, just maybe, others will see their need for Jesus Christ as their Savior!


I would love to hear others thoughts on this verse, as well as how all of this fits together in the big picture!

Next post: 12.29.12 - if you have any suggestions on how this study could be more helpful or better in any way please let me know by messaging me, emailing me, or leaving a comment below. Thanks!