As i dig deeper into the word it seems i have more and more questions. I have learned if you don't ask you wont know. Here goes!

In the scripture it says. He will punish those who do not know God and do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus. (NIV)

Honestly i do not understand how one can be punished for what he does not know. Could it be because God gives us a free will to choose? And Christ is in all of us but we some choose not to hear his calling?

Heavenly Father,
I ask that you continue to increase my knowledge and wisdom of you. Father, i have a burning desire to walk and be more like you this day. I ask for a discerning heart as i read your word. I ask that i am not just a reader of your word but that your word would be a reflection in my life. I ask that daily souls are won by the knowledge, love and wisdom of all your servants.

Amen

~Tanya~
~Amazed By His Grace~

In this passage Paul is speaking about the final judgement of mankind. When he says that Jesus will punish "those who do not know God" he is referring to those who have not become a true child of God through faith in Jesus Christ. This is the only way to "know" God.

You have hinted at another good question: What about those who have never heard the gospel? First we must understand that (as stated in verse 6 of the passage you quoted) God is just! He will judge according to His perfect justice.

Next we must understand that God has revealed Himself on a certain level to ALL people and we are therefore all without excuse (Romans 1:18-20). We are condemned by rejecting the truth which has been revealed.

What does this mean for the people on a remote island in the middle of the ocean? Can they, on some level, respond to God's truth and be saved without a presentation of the Gospel? I don't know! Paul says "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent?" (Romans 10:14-15).

We are called to preach the Word to ALL nations and trust that God will judge according to His perfect justice.

Steve,
Once again you have made it plain for me. I thanks God for this minsitry. My God continue to bless you and your family so that you will be a blessing to others.

~Tanya~
~Amazed By His Grace~