Hearers & Doers
In this heartfelt sermon, the speaker delves into Romans Chapter 2 to examine themes of faith, obedience, and genuine Christian living. He begins by encouraging believers to reflect on their salvation, particularly during the Christmas season. The greatest gift, he emphasizes, is not the material presents we give or receive but the salvation granted through Jesus Christ, a gift of unparalleled value. The speaker also shares a touching anecdote about his son’s curiosity regarding Jesus’ names and titles, using it to illustrate the depth of God’s love and the significance of Christ’s sacrifice.
The sermon transitions to a study of Romans 2, starting with the verse, “Therefore, Thou art inexcusable, O man,” highlighting the human tendency to make excuses instead of taking responsibility for shortcomings. He uses a personal story about neglecting to take out the trash to illustrate how easily we justify our actions, a behavior that extends to our spiritual lives. He challenges listeners to reflect on their own excuses when they fail to align their lives with God’s commands.
The speaker addresses the religious Jews Paul was writing to, who mistakenly believed their religious heritage and outward observances made them righteous. He stresses that going to church, tithing, or serving does not inherently make someone a good Christian. What matters is not outward actions but a heart that genuinely seeks to follow God. God, he notes, does not show favoritism but judges all equally based on their obedience and relationship with Him.
Drawing parallels to modern Christianity, the speaker warns against hypocrisy—professing faith but failing to live it out. He emphasizes that living as a Christian involves more than hearing God’s word; it requires doing what it says. He challenges listeners to consider whether their lives would draw others to God or push them away, pointing out that the greatest stumbling block for many is witnessing Christians who fail to live out their beliefs consistently.
The sermon also touches on the freedom found in obedience to God’s commandments. Using examples from parenting, the speaker explains how rules, while seemingly restrictive, provide protection and guidance. Just as a parent disciplines a child out of love, God disciplines His followers to help them grow spiritually. Discipline, he asserts, is not about punishment but about fostering a relationship built on trust and love.
The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of a heart relationship with God. Outward rituals like baptism or circumcision mean nothing if they are not accompanied by a sincere desire to follow God from the heart. He encourages listeners to examine their hearts and align their lives with God’s will, noting that true obedience flows naturally from love. As Paul writes in Romans 2:29, “He is a Jew which is one inwardly, and circumcision is that of the heart, in the spirit, and not in the letter.”