Ever notice how easy it is to spot someone else’s flaws while quietly excusing your own? We take a clear-eyed walk through Romans 2–3 to uncover why our hearts bend toward self-justification, how condemnation masquerades as discernment, and what it takes to trade the gavel for grace. Along the way, a simple airplane cookie mix-up exposes the hidden mechanics of hypocrisy—and why God’s judgment, anchored in truth, slices through our favorite excuses.

We explore Paul’s sweeping claim that both the religious and the irreligious stand accountable—those under the law and those guided by conscience. Hearing what’s right is not the same as doing it. That’s where the cross re-centers everything: Jesus bears the penalty we cannot pay, fulfilling the law’s demands and opening a Spirit-led life that actually changes us from the inside out. No more hiding behind rules or pedigree; no more “form of godliness” without power. Instead, we learn to deny ourselves, take up the cross daily, and apply Scripture to our own hearts before we use it on anyone else.

You’ll hear practical guidance for spotting the shift from wise discernment to hard condemnation, how God’s kindness leads to real repentance, and why the Spirit’s leadership frees us from the crushing weight of performance. If you’ve ever wrestled with judgment, hypocrisy, or the tension between law and grace, this conversation offers a grounded path forward—rich in biblical insight and honest about the daily battle.

If this resonated with you, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs encouragement, and leave a review to help others find it. Your reflections matter—tell us where you’re trading judgment for grace this week.

Come On Up is the radio ministry of The Mountain Cross in Waynesville North Carolina. To learn more about us please visit: TheMountainCross.com.