I'm not wanting to get caught up in the controversy here, just trying to set it in the context of John's question (for my own benefit as much as for yours): "for when Gentiles, who do not have the law, by nature do the things in the law, these, although not having the law, are a law to themselves, who show the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and between themselves their thoughts accusing or else excusing them)" Romans 2.14-15. John, I assume this is the passage you had in mind.
Press on.
Absolutely -- but this is an older post. It just came to my mail box.
After reading a post by Slade, my point #1 is not a good one, but the second issue, I believe, is profoundly brilliant in so many ways. ( Well, perhaps I over speak. Maybe "remains an important consideration" will do.) The scripture you reference, Bill, is problematic to the notion that being sinless is a requirement of our covenant relationship, is it not? The point being that this Gentile without law could not have known about many things required under Mosaical law yet he has a chance at salvation based upon what he does know to be true -- because he acted on that "knowledge." I believe God considers this to be similar to my "works of faith." Likewise, the "weak" brother in Romans 14 is both wrong and saved at the same time. However we define the "meats" issue in that passage, he is mistaken about it, but his personal and convicting faith remains viable. I cannot see any difference between this man (Romans 14) and a profoundly faithful Catholic or even, a Mormon who holds faith in Jesus Christ. There is a single element in the plan of salvation -- Christ the Man, Christ the God. The traditions of men are not condemned by Christ, in and of themselves. Rather, only when they are used to replace the will of God -- and by that I mean to say, when they provide man with an escape from the will of God. "I can't give to my parents because I have given to the Temple" is an escape from what God truly desires. Giving to the Temple, a tradition in this case, is not wrong, in and of itself. Being weak (wrong) and being lost are often two very different things. In the end, God looks to where we are at the time and sees "righteousness" because such is imputed, not earned !!
John The Whatever
Got to get to work.
I hope that the ensuing discussion, if any, is uplifting when it is all said and done. I am ready for some meat.
J
