November 11, 2008

Light Has Its Advantages

“What advantage then has the Jew, or what [is] the profit of circumcision? Much in every way! Chiefly because to them were committed the oracles of God.” (Romans 3:1-2 NKJV)

Paul anticipates a natural reaction from his readers to his previous assertion that the Jew is without excuse just like the heathen. I say natural because they were God’s people for many years with a rich heritage. God had done many miracles to preserve them, which gave them a history like no other nation.

Therefore, Paul points out their advantage, which was having the oracles of God. God gave them light. Granted they were shadows of what was to come in Christ, but they contained knowledge enough to save if received by faith.

In the first century, the Jew had the only true revelation of God. All the other nations were in darkness with only the light of creation, which is not sufficient to save. This is was a tremendous advantage to the Jew. The fact that most of them did not receive it does not nullify their advantage.

Now consider the light you have. Do you have an advantage over the tribal man, over the countries without ready access to the Word? Of course you do. Are you thankful for that advantage?

Does your advantage make you more accountable? What would Paul think if he knew that we have free access and tremendous resources to spread the Word and yet tremble fearing someone will not like us if we share our faith. This man Paul, who was beaten and imprisoned for the Gospel, would likely be dumbfounded by our impotence.

Friends count your blessings. You could live somewhere else where the Gospel is met with severe opposition. Therefore, while we enjoy this relative freedom, let us never treat the Gospel with contempt, and let us take it to the ends of the earth. Amen.