For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them.
— ROMANS 1:18–19 —
Veniamin Portansky: Word of Grace Bible Institute | USA
The word of God uncovers the depth of human depravity. Every person has an innate knowledge of God, which God Himself has placed within them. This knowledge is not easily ignored, nor silenced. No one can justify themselves before God by saying that they have no knowledge of Him. Yet, in opposition to this knowledge, people consciously rebel against God. In their unrighteousness, they reject God for one simple reason—that they may live in a way that seems right to them. We should always check our hearts, to see whether any desire of ours has taken priority over the desire to please God. And so the world is filled with idol worship. The essence of idol worship has remained unchanged: observing rituals and sacrifices to receive something for yourself—protection, provision, benevolence, or personal righteousness. Such pagan approaches to God are even found in the church. Many people come to God for selfish reasons. They base their relationship with God on what they have and how they feel. They even work hard to win God’s favor, to receive from Him what they desire. The goal of this approach is personal gain, not God’s glory. People even try to use God’s word merely for personal benefit. They know the truth, yet consciously reject it to go their own way. In word, they may have the right theology, but in practice they reject that theology. Against such sin, God’s wrath will be revealed. In light of this truth, we should always check our hearts, to see whether any desire of ours has taken priority over the desire to please God. Our knowledge of God should lead to right worship of God.
