Act JustlySample

God's character is the foundation of our understanding of justice. But what is God's character like? On a first pass through the Bible, you might be confused. In some stories, you see God raining down fire from the sky; punishing with plagues and snakes; and allowing his people to be defeated and exiled for their sin. In other stories, you see God rescuing against all odds, renewing his promises again and again, and acting with mercy and love.

Who is this God who has compassion on people to the thousandth generation and yet does not excuse sin? Is this a contradiction? How do God’s wrath and God’s grace fit together?

In our sinfulness, we can't understand what is "good" and "just" on our own. We need God to demonstrate his ways of justice to us. He made the ultimate demonstration through Jesus' death on the cross. As you read this passage of Scripture, consider how God's wrath and grace come together in this one mighty act of justice for the world.

Reflection Questions:

Romans 3 says that God’s sacrifice of Christ was “fair” or “just.” How or why is God’s forgiveness of our sins considered just?

What does Jesus' death on the cross reveal to you about God's justice?