What Really Counts

Paul says in Romans 2 that the Jews shouldn't condemn people for sinning, because they are just as bad! You see, the Jews thought they were going to heaven because they were Jews. So they tried to obey the law, but they figured they were safe either way. Paul is explaining that being right with God has nothing to do with who your grandma is or even what she did. It has everything to do with YOUR relationship with Jesus. There will be a day when God's patience runs out, and the world will be judged. But when that happens it won't be based on whether or not your family has a history of following God. The only thing that will matter for you is whether or not you did! This would have shaken the Jews who read it, and it causes me to take a look at myself today. I have a great family, but I can't rely on my mom or dad to get me into heaven.

He also says that they (the Jews) think they are special because they have the law and can tell other people how God wants them to live. While that may be true, the problem was that they weren't following it themselves! Having the law doesn't do you any good if you don't follow it! Just like knowing about God doesn't do you any good unless you are a follower. It really comes down to relationship. I know a lot about Michael Jordan, but we aren't having lunch today. That is how my relationship with God is sometimes. It doesn't do me any good to be able to quote a ton of scripture, to go to church, even to teach others about Him if I'm not spending time with Him myself on a regular basis.

To paraphrase Paul: You are not a Christian just because your parents were Christian and you grew up in church. No, the true Christian is the one whose heart is right with God.

Enjoy the Journey