Scripture
But someone might argue, “How can God condemn me as a sinner if my dishonesty highlights his truthfulness and brings him more glory?”
Observation
“What is the value of being a Jew?” Paul asks. He says it is of great value because the Jews were entrusted with the whole revelation of God.
The fact that some Jews were unfaithful to God does not mean that He is unfaithful. Even if every man is a liar, God is true.
Some people have argued that being a sinner is a good thing because it helps people see God’s goodness. It can’t be fair to punish these sinners for showing God’s holiness.
Some people have even claimed that Paul has said the more we sin the better it is. Paul calls such statements slander and says those who say such things will be condemned.
Application
It amazes me sometimes how far we go to justify our sin. Somehow we find ways of admitting that our actions are wrong, but God is OK with that. How dare God punish us for sinning?
In our increasingly godless culture, people base their morality on feelings and on the idea that any behaviour is acceptable if nobody gets hurt or they are serving a higher purpose.
No matter how we try to justify ourselves, sin is sin. It is God, not ourselves, who sets the standards.
God is never glorified by sin, no matter how much we might try to rationalise it.
What does glorify God more than anything else is somebody who devotes their whole life to loving God and living by His standards. That might seem boring in a culture that has turned God’s value system on its head. But it is the only way for the follower of Jesus to live authentically.
Prayer
Forgive me Lord for the times I try to justify my sinful actions and attitudes. Help me to turn away from sin and to walk in the ways you set for me. Amen.
