Romans 1:18-32
Paul begins to explain the Gospel. This will be similar to a “geometric proof” (remember those ☺), as one doctrine will logically lead to another. Webster’s Dictionary defines doctrine as (1) a principle, position or policy taught or advocated; (2) a body or system of teachings relating to a particular subject. We study doctrine because the Bible affirms certain pillars of truth that build the Christian faith. Without these pillars the whole house falls—and man cannot understand the work Christ did. The gospel and doctrine are inseparable. Without proper instruction man cannot fully receive Christ and understand what he has been given in this gift. Also remember the gospel means “good news.”
I. Doctrine of Separation: Paul takes great pains to explain why and how a Holy God separates himself from a sinful creation. This doctrine will be developed from Rom 1:18-3:20. Does it seem odd that an explanation of the gospel does not start with Jesus? The gospel always begins with God! His holiness cannot be joined with our sin and his righteous wrath is the due penalty of our sin. Until we recognize how holy God is… and how separated by sin we are… we cannot truly know the good news of Jesus.
II. Doctrine of General Revelation: Another amazing concept Paul chooses to weave into his announcement of the good news is the doctrine of general revelation. In Ecclesiastes 3:11, Solomon writes under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit: God has set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done. God has revealed his eternal power and divine nature to every man. We know there is a supreme being; yet we disobey in our lack of faith. Paul says we are without excuse and deserve the righteous judgment or wrath of God.
III. Darkened hearts; Depraved minds; Deserving death: Paul begins to layout the progressive nature of man’s thoughts and actions when he rejects God. This downward spiral starts by refusing to glorify God with thanksgiving for being our Creator. (v. 21) The rejection of God leads to a darkened heart and foolish actions. As man continues to base his philosophy (or belief system) on things that are made…he continues to do what we were made to do…worship. Oh that we would understand this point; we are all worshipers of something. It is either the worship of the One who created all things or the worship of all things created. What do you worship? Where do you spend your self, your resources? Look in the mirror…your god may be yourself.
Paul shows where the mind that rejects God eventually ends up…totally depraved…given to every lust, worshiping the body of man, rampant perversion and homosexuality. Does this sound familiar in a culture that can be characterized as “God-haters?”
Romans 1:32 Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.
I recently heard a sermon stating that the “good news of the gospel starts with very bad news.” I appears that Paul is giving us the bad news. The progression of this really startled me and made me need to repent of my “slow fade” (casting crowns) in my failing to glorify God, my lack of Thanksgiving and futile thinking. I think it is easy for our thinking to become futile when we “do not find it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God”. I pray that this week we can all be renewed in our faith and that God impress upon all of our hearts how “worthwhile” it is to retain the knowledge of God by studying his word. Thanks for the outline! I am excited about going through it with you. Hugs and Kisses to little Jocelyn and T-Lor.
I totally agree. One theme God is giving me this week is that he is perfect in every attribute. In his wrath, provision, love, justice, etc. Also since he is the originator of the Word, it is perfect because its author is perfect. This has helped me to further my understanding of inerrancy (the idea that God’s word is without error). He is without error. His word is without error, flaw or defect. it is completely perfect in its ability to accomplish His work. It will not return void but will penetrate the hearts of men for His Glory!!! Amen