Romans 1:18-19 "For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them."

The Apostle Paul begins to teach a vital truth about the universality of sin, and God's hatred for sin.  God loves sinners, but He hates our sin.  His wrath against all ungodliness and unrighteousness is evidence that He has a deep and holy hatred for sin.  Paul spends the greater portion of the first three chapters of this book to establish "...both Jews and Gentiles, that they are all under sin; 10As it is written, There is none righteous, no, not one: 11There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.  12They are all gone out of the way, they are together become unprofitable; there is none that doeth good, no, not one." (Romans 3:9-12)

When the Name of the LORD was proclaimed before Moses in Exodus 34:5-7, He not only proclaimed Himself as "merciful and gracious, long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth," but also "that will by no means clear the guilty."  People often refuse to see the side of God that demonstrates His wrath against sin, they prefer to only focus upon His mercy, grace, and long-suffering nature. 

Don't make the mistake by taking a lighthearted stance against sin, and also hating sin in your own life.  America is filled with debauchery because we have refused to acknowledge God's wrath concerning sin.

May we be light and salt in this day of darkness.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  What does it mean to you when one says, “God hates sin, but loves the sinner?”

2.  Is there anyone who doesn’t sin?  What are some of your most frequent sins?

3.  Do you believe God hates sin?  How then is one punished who never turns to Jesus for forgiveness?

4.  Does anyone have to go to Hell?  Will more people end up in Hell then people in Heaven?  Explain your answer from the Bible.