Is God’s Wrath Unjust?—Romans 3:5-6

Is God’s Wrath Unjust?—Romans 3:5-6

"But if our unrighteousness brings out God's righteousness more clearly, what shall we say? That God is unjust in bringing his wrath on us? (I am using a human argument.) Certainly not! If that were so, how could God judge the world?" (Romans 3:5-6)

In college, I got written up at work when a server on my shift walked out because one of the line cooks was targeting the wait staff with a squirt gun. At first, I thought this was unfair because I was not participating in any way. Most thought it was a joke and laughed, so I didn’t see any harm in allowing it. However, the server who quit wasn’t laughing. I was slow to realize that my lack of leadership did deserve the written warning. And when it all came down—I had no excuse, although I’m sure I tried several.


When in error, we naturally try to find an excuse, and when that doesn’t work, we question authority.
 

When in error, we naturally try to find an excuse, and when that doesn’t work, we question authority.

Here was mankind’s challenge: Is God unjust in bringing His wrath on us?

Our unfaithfulness magnifies the mercy of God in an exponential way. So if our sin promotes and amplifies His holiness, why are we still being judged for sin?

Although Paul is recognizing this argument, he clearly defines it as human logic. The very thought that our sin could benefit God and help to promote His character is very selfish. Paul is making the point that this is in no way the wisdom of God, as it is the rationale of mankind.

The implication that God would be unjust in judging the world is utterly ridiculous. God can judge the world because He alone is righteous. Since this judgment is an established fact in Scripture, this argument is thrown out on that basis.

In college, I had to accept that I had no excuse, which forced me to rely on the mercy of my supervisor. Today, instead of looking for excuses, look to Jesus who promises to always be merciful.

 

Previous: Romans 3:3-4  Next: Romans 3:7-8

Original article published June 17, 2009.

Juli Camarin

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