Fighting Against God

The noted Jewish teacher, Gamaliel, warned the Sanhedrin council to be careful concerning their treatment of the apostles of the Lord (Acts 5:39). We read the same idea in the Old Testament (2 Chronicles 13:12). Truly, there is no power but of God (Romans 13:1), and “He ruleth by his power forever” (Psalm 66:7 KJV). Why then would anyone be so foolish as to oppose the Creator of us all? (Romans 9:20). Is it not tragically true that Romans 3:18 is indicative of too many folks in our generation?

In spite of the infinite love and awesome power of God, there are millions today who will not seek the counsel of heaven and the constant guidance or perfect peace our gracious God has promised (Isaiah 26:3; Isaiah 58:11). As the apostle Paul wrote, “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hinder the truth in unrighteousness” (Romans 1:18). When we “do not retain God in our knowledge” (Romans 1:28), only chaos and ruin can result. However, regardless of our actions or our attitude, God has not abdicated nor has He been overthrown. In view of the fact that we shall all stand before the Lord in judgment (Romans 14:12), it would be wise to be sure we have obeyed Him! (Romans 6:17). The worth of a soul (Mark 8:36-37) and the justice of God demand that we be prepared to be judged (2 Corinthians 5:10). We will be judged by His word (John 12:48). We must freely admit that proper fear is a legitimate motivation in life.

I am fearful of jumping off a high building or standing on a railroad track with a train bearing down on me. What’s more, I am glad I have sense enough to fear these things. We ought also to stand in awe of a God who can speak the world into existence (Psalm 33:9), and who has promised to judge! “It is fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God….therefore, knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade men” (Hebrews 10:31; 2 Corinthians 5:11). The Psalms have beautifully expressed the omnipotence of God in three powerful verses (Psalm 93:1; Psalm 46:1; Psalm 124:8). As the popular song stated a few years ago, “He’s got the whole world is in His hands!” No wonder then that Paul wrote, “Let God be found true, but every man a liar” (Romans 3:4).

The word of God is powerful and piercing (Hebrews 4:12). He is a “consuming fire” (Hebrews 12:29). We absolutely waste our lives upon the earth if we spend them in rebellion and ingratitude. Could more appropriate words on this theme ever surpass the message of the Psalmist? “God is greatly to be feared in the assembly of the saints and to be had in reverence of all them that are round about him” (Psalm 89:7). —Johnny Ramsey (audio sermons)

—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets