Application: As much as we might like to think that we are NOT legalistic in our view points or our relationship with God.....we really are. We love to show other people are following the rules. We love to point out the flaws in other people, their breaking the law.
My father-in-law just told me that he was proud to be a rule follower. It helps give order to the world. His daughter is a confessed pharisee.
Reading this portion of Romans, I am reminded of all the comments I hear good christian people make when someone is accused or convicted of a crime, minor or major. I heard a woman yell at an unaccompanied minor coming into the country that 'Jesus wouldn't break the law.' Umm but he did, even as an unaccompanied minor into Egypt. We often forget that Paul and Silas were placed in prison.....a lot. God's kingdom is not complete because of the law.
The law no longer holds us into a strict relationship of rule following but has made complete in fulness of Jesus Christ. Because of Jesus we are free (Galatians 5:1)
Prayer: Lord, for all of us who are accidental or intentional pharisees.....forgive us.