Paul’s next arguments in chapter 3 of Romans sound a bit like trying to explain to a child the error of his ways. People who sin may reason that they give God the opportunity to show the world how merciful he is and therefore the sinners should not be held responsible and punished. They are only the stage that allows God to show off his character.
“v.5 But if our wickedness provides proof of God’s righteousness, what can we say? Is God unjust, humanly speaking, to inflict his wrath?”
The argument is kind of like saying that my stealing your cookies helped your diet and so I should not be punished. Or perhaps my fudging on my tax returns gives me more money to spend and put money into the economy. Paul does not even try to deal with that kind of twisted thinking. Perhaps our hero here is Robin Hood who stole from the rich to help the poor. Prince John who was himself corrupt was in continual conflict with Robin. It made great childhood stories as we cheered for Robin and his band of thieves. Paul would say it is flawed thinking. What would you say?
Ponder for a minute if there is an area in your life where you compromise your values or ideals for the “greater good” you hope is being accomplished. Let us pray for integrity in our people of leadership and wisdom as they make decisions that impact sooo many lives.
On the Way to Wonder 