"But They Have Not All Obeyed the Gospel"

"But they have not all obeyed the gospel," Romans 10:16. Why? The Bible itself gives us insight as we try to deal with this question.

Some apparently think they are "good enough" and do not need the saving power of the Gospel (Romans 1:16). However, Paul affirms "All" (accountable) people are lost in sin (Romans 3:9, 19, 23).

Secondly, some have believed and are following false doctrine, thinking that they are obeying God (Matthew 7:15, 21-23; Proverbs 16:25). You cannot believe error and obey Truth.

In the third place, others have simply "closed" their eyes to the truth (Matthew 13:15). Peter speaks of those who are "willingly" ignorant (2 Peter 3:1-5). People like this refuse and reject scriptural evidence out of hand.

Next, there may be those who do not believe the Bible means what it says. Such people should carefully consider the following scriptures:

1. "God is not man...hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?" Numbers 23:19.
2. "...every transgression and disobedience received a just recompense of reward; - and how shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation..." Hebrews 2:2-3.
3. "...the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day." John 12:48.

Furthermore, some trust in tomorrow (James 4:13-17; Proverbs 27:1). The Bible does not promise tomorrow but in contract urges all to prepare "today" (Hebrews 3:12-13; 2 Corinthians 6:1-2).

We must remember, neither the Lord nor the apostles converted everyone with whom they came in contact. Let us continue to be faithful and do all we can. Others will have to give account for themselves (Romans 14:12).