For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse. Romans 1:20
The reason men are without excuse is explained further in the next chapter: “Indeed, when Gentiles, who do not have the law, do by nature things required by the law … show that the requirements of the law are written on their hearts, their consciences also bearing witness …” (Romans 2:14-15).
I read the testimony of an atheistic scientist who believed in evolution. The thing that brought him to faith was that, as he studied animals and people, he saw that people had an innate sense of right and wrong irrespective of their culture. He saw the “moral law” was written on people’s hearts and it brought him to faith because he couldn’t explain this scientifically. He knew it had to be a God-thing. Likewise, God has given everyone the opportunity of coming to faith. He has revealed himself through creation and through the “moral law”.
However, not everyone responds which causes us grief and even more so, causes God grief. Such was God’s desire for a restored relationship with us that he sent his own son, to take the punishment of our sins. He left nothing undone in his attempts to draw us back to himself. He longs to be gracious to us (Isaiah 30:18).
Yet he won’t override our free will. So he woos us, not overwhelming us with his power—never manipulating or domineering us, never using coercion or bribery. Consequently, it’s not only easy for non-Christians to ignore Jesus, but it’s also easy for Christians to ignore his continuing desire to be in close relationship with us.
