PM Scripture Reading: Romans 10.1-3

Brent T. Willey

Misdirected Zeal!

Introduction:

1. The apostle Paul exposed Israel’s misdirected zeal when he wrote, “For I bear them witness that they have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge” (Rom. 10.2; read vs. 1-3).
2. This is no less of a problem in today’s religious world!

The Problem of Ignorance

1. “For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness…”
   1. Agnoountes, is from agnoeō, “to be ignorant, not to know,” which is counter to gnōsis, primarily a seeking to know, and enquiry, investigation” (Vine).
   2. The same form is used in Acts 17.23: “the One whom you worship without knowing” (nkj; “in ignorance” nasb).
2. Paul could speak from personal experience! (1 Tim. 1.13)

“God’s Righteousness” versus “Own Righteousness”

1. “God’s righteousness” is found in His revealed truth, the gospel! (Rom. 1.16-17) We must submit to it!
2. Seeking to establish one’s “own righteousness” is self-serving and perilous! (Text, cf., Phil. 3.8-11)

The Danger of Zeal Without Knowledge

1. Zealously rushing into something without good information.
   1. Zēlos: “excitement of mind” (Thayer; e.g., Phil. 3.6).
   2. Militarily, the importance of proper intelligence.
   3. Spiritually, proper knowledge of the facts. (Prov. 18.13)
2. Some applications of zeal without knowledge…
   1. Causes people say things they later regret. (Eccl. 5.2)
   2. Wastes time because of hasty mistakes. (Prov. 21.5; 29.20)
   3. Leads to unauthorized practices. (Matt. 7.21-23)

Conclusion: Zeal must be coupled with biblical knowledge!