From the Inside Out
A Grace Filled Life
Misconceptions (2|2)
Pages 30-37
James 2:13 (NIV) Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment.
Psalm 145:17-20 (NIV) The LORD is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does. The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; He hears their cry and saves them. The LORD watches over all who love him, but all the wicked he will destroy.
Hebrews 4:14-16 (NIV) Therefore, since we have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are —yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.
Psalm 51:3-6 (NIV) For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge. Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. Yet you desired faithfulness even in the womb; you taught me wisdom in that secret place.
Why do you think many people today prefer to imagine a “domesticated” version of God who doesn’t get angry or judge sin? What might be lost when we do this?
How does your view of God’s wrath and judgment affect the way you see His love, mercy, and your own faith journey?
If we naturally desire justice against evil, why do we often resist or question God’s righteous anger and judgment? What does this reveal about our understanding of His character?
Why do you think it’s easier to accept human justice against evil than to accept God’s justice?
Many people struggle to see God’s wrath and grace as two sides of the same loving character. How have you experienced or understood moments in life where God’s discipline (wrath) and His mercy (grace) worked together to reveal His love more clearly?