Perhaps you have heard the expression, “shouldering
responsibility.” Being responsible (in this sense) simply
means “to do what is your duty” or “to fulfill that which is
your obligation.”
Sometimes, due to neglect or laziness, a person throws
off the yoke of responsibility (or perhaps, never picks it up
to begin with), yet that does not change the fact that we
have much to answer for. For example, we have a
responsibility to God in worship and service (Jn. 4:23-24;
Heb. 12:28). Husbands and wives have responsibilities
toward each other (Eph. 5:22-28; 1 Cor. 7:3-5) and
toward their children (Eph. 6:4). Likewise, children have
a responsibility toward their parents (vv. 1-3). We all
have responsibilities as citizens to our government (Rom.
13:1-6). Christians have responsibilities toward fellow
Christians (Eph. 4:16; Gal. 6:1-2) as well as toward those
who are not (v. 10).
Yet perhaps the greatest point we can make is that
sinners must take responsibility for their sins, for God will
require it of them (2 Cor. 5:10). The one talent man tried
to justify himself (Mt. 25:24-25). He was not justified (v.
26-30). The tax collector said, “God be merciful to me
the sinner” (Lk. 18:13). He was justified (v. 14). King
Saul blamed the people for his error (1 Sam. 15:15, 21).
He was rejected (v. 23). The prodigal son blamed himself
for his predicament (Lk. 15:21). He was received (vv. 20-
24). Adam blamed Eve and Eve blamed the devil for their
transgression (Gen. 3:12-13). They were driven out.
David said, “I have sinned against the Lord” (2 Sam. 12:
13). He was forgiven.
Sinners, “Arise, for this matter is your responsibility…”
(Ezra 10:4).