Main Text: Romans 2: 1-11

This message distinguishes the difference between recipients of grace and self-righteous legalists. In Luke 7:36-50 is a true story of Jesus and a sinful woman. Jesus saw the woman's washing, kissing and anointing of His feet as an act of devotion, worship and repentance. Therefore, she was entitled to forgiveness because she has demonstrated her faith with her works. The story reveals how legalists in church find pride in religiosity.

In addition, the story shows the demonstration of the riches of God's goodness towards those who are not pretentious; tax collectors, harlots and the likes; they are not pretentious people. Hence God's goodness is extended towards and brought them into the kingdom. But legalists seek ways to please God in their own strength. It shows that no one can impress God on the basis of religiosity; fasting and praying does not entitle you to God's mercy.

Also, the story of the prodigal son is another good reference to reiterate God's goodness. Although the turning point for the prodigal son to return home was hunger, the father's love and compassion was demonstrated, even before the son could say anything to his father. It was the father who ran towards him, kissed him and embraced him, despite the filthiness of the son. The lesson in the story teaches that it is the goodness of God that leads us to repentance, not His severity. Romans 11:22-23. The severity of God hardens the heart and does not produce repentance. Revelation 9:13-16.