Motivation Matters

Paul wrote the epistle to those called by God at Rome to people he didn't know. His goal was to make sure they got the clear gospel (Rom 1:16-17). So he laid down 11 chapters of doctrine before he ever got to the "practice" part. In the 15th chapter he told them, "On some points I have written to you very boldly by way of reminder ..." (Rom 15:15) "Boldly"? Indeed. He warned of God's wrath (Rom 1:18) and the extent of sin (Rom 3:9) and the seriousness of the sin problem (Rom 3:10-12). He warned the Jews about their self-righteousness (Rom 2:17-24). He urged his readers to stop sinning (Rom 6:11-14). He asked them to give their bodies as a living sacrifice (Rom 12:1). He was, indeed, bold.

We are told, loudly and often, that we shouldn't be "judgmental." By that they mean we shouldn't be pointing out anyone else's "sin," perceived or genuine. We should keep silent about it. To do otherwise is to be hateful. You cannot call out sin and be kind. These twp things are in opposition. But Paul disagreed. Here's what he actually wrote in that verse in Romans 15.

But on some points I have written to you very boldly by way of reminder, because of the grace given me by God. (Rom 15:15)

Yes, he wrote "very boldly," calling natural man "fools" and idolaters (Rom 1:21-23). He called homosexual sex "shameless acts" and "contrary to nature" (Rom 1:26-27). He told Jews who violate the Law, "The name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you." (Rom 2:24) But note what he says about all that and more. He did it "because of the grace given me by God." Paul spoke boldly on the basis of grace.

Sometimes we humans can do the right thing for the wrong reason. Did I say "sometimes"? More like "often." But the fact that sometimes we point out error in others with bad motives is no reason to assume that all such effort is with bad motives. Paul considered it grace. We even know it can be "tough love." Perhaps, before you accuse someone of being hateful, you should find out their motive.