INTRODUCTION: Romans lays a theological foundation that reveals the depths of our human condition. Before the beauty of salvation shines forth, Paul forces us to look into the mirror of divine truth and see what we truly are: sinners in need of grace.

This week's message deals with two sobering realities: the wrath of God and the fallenness of man. Until we see our lostness, we will not seek rescue. Until we grasp God's justice, we will not treasure His mercy.

3-REALITIES THAT SHAPE ETERNITY

I. THE REALITY OF GOD’S WRATH

a. If there is ONE THING that the WORLD has been far too flippant about it is THE WRATH OF GOD.

          i. Romans 1:18 “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness.”

b. God's WRATH is not impulsive rage but His righteous and holy RESPONSE to sin.

II. THE REALITY OF THE REBELLION OF MAN

a. God’s WRATH is REAL because MAN’s REBELLION is REAL.

         i. Romans 3:23 “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God.”

b.  Humanity’s fall is universal— “all have sinned.”

c.   Sin is not just the bad we do, but the good we fail to do—it is “coming short” of God's glory.

III. THE REALITY OF GOD’S TRUTH AND MAN’S TASK

a. God has clearly revealed His existence and nature to all, making each person morally accountable to either seek Him and receive His grace or reject Him and face judgment.

        i. Romans 1:19-20 “Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:”

b.  Explanation:

         i.    God has made Himself known through CREATION, CONSCIENCE, and HIS WORD.

         ii.    Man is ACCOUNTABLE because he knows yet chooses REBELLION.

         iii.    The phrase “without excuse” silences every human defense before a holy God.