Read Exodus 20:3-17 or click to view http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Exodus%2020:3-17,&version=NIV (Click back arrow on browser to return here)
God instructs Moses to share these "Laws" with the people of Israel and God intends for them to obey them. These Laws will keep them in right relationship with God and with other people around them. Those laws are still with us today. We know them as the 10 Commandments. In the course of time, more and more laws were written, manmade additions, that the Israelites refer to as "The Law."
Paul writes in Romans 3:20, that obeying the Law will not make one righteous (right with God) but will actually expose their sinful tendencies (rebellion against God). When one tries to keep the Law they fail miserably. That is the purpose of the Law; to expose sinful rebellion against God. Those sinful tendencies are revealed in every culture at every level of society. It is revealed in those who are poor and in those who are wealthy. It is revealed in every man, woman and child. And it will continue to do so until God wipes out sin for good.
Paul writes 3 Specific ways those sinful tendencies are exposed in Romans 1:18-32:
1. Vs. 24 - sexual impurity (Prior to marriage, Adultery)
2. Vs. 26 - shameful lusts (homosexuality, lesbianism)
3. Vs. 28,29,30,31 - depraved minds, things that ought not to be done. (Read Verses)
Looking at that list, are we not all guilty of one or more of those sinful tendencies? As a result we are condemned, guilty as charged. It makes sense now. God is holding us accountable to a standard of righteousness and since we are unable to obey it, we are guilty, we are condemned. But that is not all.
What is the punishment for such a crime against God? (Hint: Romans 1:32)
Tomorrow we will look at what the punishment is and if there is any hope. Good news: Jesus is our hope!
As you finish: Pray for our children's ministry. Pray that many children surrender to Jesus and commit to living their lives for Him.
God Bless!
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