Rejecting Grace Romans 2:3 Do you suppose, O man—you who judge those who practice such things and yet do them yourself—that you will escape the judgment of God? 4 Or do you presume on the riches of his kindness and forbearance and patience, not knowing that God's kindness is meant to lead you to repentance?
“A River Runs Through It” is the story of two brothers. The oldest goes off to college, marries and becomes a college professor. The other stays in Montana where he can fish, he drinks, tell the best stories, has the best parties and loves to play poker. He was beautiful – like art. However, his love for gambling moved him deeper and deeper into debt. He went into debt with the wrong people, and everyone knew it. His brother wanted to help him, tried to get him to move, tried to get him to stop playing, and tried to pay his debts – but he refused all help. When finally the loan sharks got tired of waiting, they beat him to death. His father was inconsolable after the funeral, he kept asking questions – only one piece of information brought him any comfort – Paul had broken every bone in his right hand – he had died fighting.
He died fighting – but he died. He went out on his own terms but he went out. He never sacrificed his independence, but he did sacrifice his life.
This story is replayed in lives all around us. Many of us know this pain. We watch someone make self-destructive decision after decision, and we want so badly to help – but they will not take our help.
In our text today, Ishmael has reached maturity and he rejects the covenant of Grace. We see in him a pattern we find all around us. The story of redemption is played out right in front of his eyes, but he chooses to scoff at it rather than submit to it. And though God reaches out to him with goodness and abundant blessing, he leaves without turning back.
Today I want to speak to those of you in the church who do not believe the Gospel. I understand how hard these promises are to believe, but please do not let cynicism steal God’s promises away from you. I also want to speak to you parents facing the time when you must let your children leave and entrust them to God. I understand your fear, and your desire to hold on and protect. You must trust God to do what you cannot.
To both groups God says – Do not listen to your fears. Trust me instead. I am good.
The goodness of God brings men to repentance, will you take it?
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