Vengeance Belongs to the Lord

 

Vengeance Belongs to the Lord

Text: Romans 12:19; Deuteronomy 32:35

Romans 12:19 declares: “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.” Here Paul echoes Deuteronomy 32:35, where God Himself promises: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay. In due time their foot will slip.”

These verses contain both a command and a promise.

• The command: Do not take revenge.

• The promise: God Himself will set things right.

They are closely related because our obedience—our refusal to strike back—rests upon our trust that God will keep His word.

The Command: Leave Vengeance to God
Human nature pushes us to retaliate when we are wronged. We feel that fairness demands an immediate response. Yet God tells us to step aside. Why? Because vengeance is not safe in our hands. Our justice is usually mixed with selfishness, anger, and pride. God alone knows hearts and motives.

To seek revenge is to take God’s role upon ourselves. But to forgive, or at least to let go of vengeance, is to trust that God is still Judge.

The Promise: God Will Repay
God assures us that injustice will not last forever. Every act of evil, every insult, every persecution will one day be accounted for. This is not a vague hope—it is a certainty rooted in God’s character.

Jesus echoed this promise repeatedly:

• Matthew 6:4, 6 – God sees in secret, and He will reward openly.

• Matthew 16:27 – The Son of Man will come with His angels and reward each according to what he has done.

• Luke 6:23 – When persecuted, rejoice, for great is your reward in heaven.

• 2 Timothy 4:8 – Paul looked forward to “the crown of righteousness” which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give.

Jesus never dismissed the principle of reward and punishment. But He always placed it in God’s hands, not ours. Judgment belongs to the One who judges rightly.

Waiting for the Second Coming
All of this points us forward. Today, we may still see injustice prevail. The wicked may prosper while the righteous suffer. But the Second Coming will bring everything into the light.

At Christ’s return, suffering will end, wrongs will be made right, and the faithful will be rewarded. This is why Christians can endure persecution without bitterness. We do not need to seek revenge—we are waiting for the Righteous Judge.

The Call to Perfect Love
But what do we do in the meantime? Jesus calls us to a higher standard: “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). This is not sinless perfection but perfection in love.

Perfect love is love that forgives, love that releases bitterness, love that trusts God with justice. It is the love Jesus showed on the cross when He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”

To be perfect in love means to live above retaliation, to pray for our enemies, and to bless those who curse us. Only the Spirit of Christ within us can make this possible.

Let Go and Let God
Romans 12:19 and Deuteronomy 32:35 remind us that vengeance is not ours. The command is to release it. The promise is that God Himself will repay. Jesus affirmed that reward and judgment are real, but they belong to Him, not us.

So as we wait for the Second Coming, let us live in perfect love—loving as Christ loved, forgiving as Christ forgave, and trusting that one day every tear will be wiped away, every wrong will be made right, and every faithful heart will hear the words: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Love Beyond Retaliation

 

Love Beyond Retaliation

Text: Matthew 5:38–48

In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus takes us deep into the heart of God’s law, showing us that righteousness is not just about outward obedience, but about inward transformation. Today, we come to one of the most challenging teachings in all of Scripture: how to respond when wronged. Jesus addresses the famous principle, “an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.”

The Original Meaning of the Retaliation Law

In Exodus 21:24, Leviticus 24:20, and Deuteronomy 19:21, God gave Israel the law of retaliation, or lex talionis. At first glance, it sounds harsh, but in its original context it was actually merciful. It was designed to limit revenge. Without this law, retaliation could escalate—one injury leading to a feud, and a feud leading to bloodshed. This principle made justice proportional. If someone knocked out a tooth, you could not take their life. It was a safeguard for fairness.

How Jesus Interprets the Law

But in Matthew 5, Jesus says something shocking:
"You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If someone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.”

What is Jesus doing here? He is not abolishing the law of Moses, but fulfilling it (Matthew 5:17). He is showing that God’s true intention is not to create a people obsessed with strict justice, but a people marked by grace, mercy, and love.

The problem in Jesus’ day was that people had taken this principle, originally meant for courtrooms and judges, and applied it to personal relationships. Instead of seeking justice through proper authority, individuals used it to justify personal revenge. Jesus corrects this by teaching His disciples that personal vengeance has no place in the kingdom of God.

What This Means for Us Today

This teaching confronts us directly, because human nature still craves revenge. If someone insults us, our instinct is to insult back. If someone hurts us, we want to hurt them worse. But Jesus calls us to live differently.

1. Responding with Grace Instead of Retaliation
   Jesus gives practical illustrations: turning the other cheek, going the extra mile, giving your cloak. These examples teach us not to be controlled by a spirit of retaliation but by a spirit of generosity.

2. Loving Our Enemies
   Jesus goes even further: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (v. 44). This is radical love—the kind that reflects the very heart of God. When we love those who hate us, we show that we are children of our Father in heaven.

3. The Call to Perfection
   Jesus ends with these words: “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (v. 48). Here, “perfect” means complete or mature in love. God’s love extends to the just and unjust alike. He sends rain on the righteous and unrighteous. Our calling is to mirror that same love to all people, even those who mistreat us.

Practical Application

• At work: When someone gossips about you, instead of plotting to get even, pray for them.

• In family life: When tempers flare, respond with gentleness rather than harsh words.

• In society: Instead of fueling cycles of hatred, Christians are called to be peacemakers, breaking the chain of retaliation through forgiveness.

How About Us?

The law of retaliation was never meant to promote personal vengeance; it was meant to restrain it. Jesus reveals that the ultimate fulfillment of that law is not in measured justice, but in unmeasured love. To follow Christ is to choose the harder path—to forgive when wronged, to bless when cursed, to love even when hated.

This is not weakness—it is strength. It is the strength of the cross, where Jesus, though reviled, did not retaliate, but prayed, “Father, forgive them.” And it is by His Spirit that we, too, can live as children of our Father in heaven, perfect in love.

Justice, Mercy, and Worship: God’s Design for His People

 

"Justice, Mercy, and Worship: God’s Design for His People"

When we read Exodus 22:16–23:19, we may be tempted to see these chapters as a long list of regulations that no longer apply to us. But every law God gave to Israel carried His divine wisdom. They were not merely rules but expressions of His character—His justice, His mercy, and His holiness. In His mercy, God gave these laws to correct the sinful tendencies of the human heart and to restrain the natural inclinations of people. These instructions protected society, eliminated evil, and cultivated good relationships between neighbors. Justice and love were to rule every action.

God’s Concern for Justice and Human Relationships (Exodus 22:16–23:9)
These chapters cover a wide range of issues, touching on daily life, justice, and compassion.

1. Moral and Family Purity (22:16–17) – The laws about marriage and sexual responsibility protected families and women from exploitation. God was safeguarding purity and commitment.

2. Religious Faithfulness (22:18–20) – Israel was reminded to avoid sorcery, idolatry, and false worship. God demanded exclusive devotion, knowing that false worship would lead to destruction of community life.

3. Justice in Society (22:21–27; 23:1–3, 6–9) – God commanded His people to show compassion toward foreigners, widows, and orphans, remembering they too were once strangers in Egypt. Exploitation of the weak was forbidden. He even included laws about lending and fair treatment of the poor, showing that His concern was not just for ritual but for everyday acts of kindness.

4. Honesty and Fairness (23:1–9) – False reports, bribery, and perverted justice were forbidden. God reminded Israel that justice was not to be manipulated, and that mercy toward outsiders was a reflection of His mercy to them.

In all these instructions, God was shaping His people to be distinct from the nations around them—a people of justice and love.

God’s Concern for Worship and Rest (Exodus 23:10–19)
The next section shifts focus from social justice to worship and rhythms of life.

1. The Sabbath Year and the Weekly Sabbath (23:10–12) – The land was to rest every seventh year, giving opportunity for the poor and even animals to benefit from what grew naturally. Likewise, the weekly Sabbath was to be a time of rest for families, servants, and even livestock. The Sabbath was a reminder of creation, pointing back to the God who created all things and established a rhythm of rest for His people.

2. Faithfulness in Worship (23:13–19) – Israel was reminded not to take the names of other gods on their lips but to remain loyal to the Lord alone. Worship was central to life with God.

3. The Three Festivals (23:14–17) –

   • The Feast of Unleavened Bread (Passover) reminded Israel of God’s redemption from Egypt.

   • The Feast of Harvest (Pentecost or Weeks) celebrated the firstfruits of the harvest, acknowledging that all blessings come from God.

   • The Feast of Ingathering (Tabernacles or Booths) marked the end of the agricultural year, celebrating God’s provision and care.

These festivals were more than ceremonies—they were rhythms of remembrance, worship, and gratitude. Three times a year, all men were required to appear before the Lord. This ensured that the nation remained united in worship, centered on God’s saving acts and ongoing provision.

The Heart of God’s Law: Justice and Love
What ties all these laws together? The answer is found in the character of God Himself. He is just, merciful, and holy. His laws reflect His desire that His people live in love and fairness toward one another, and in wholehearted devotion toward Him.

• God restrained evil through justice.

• God cultivated love through compassion.

• God kept His people safe by reminding them to worship Him alone.

When Jesus came, He fulfilled the spirit of these laws perfectly. He summarized the whole law in two commands: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength, and love your neighbor as yourself.

The Law is LOVE
Exodus 22:16–23:19 shows us that God cares deeply about how we treat one another and how we worship Him. Justice and love must govern all our actions. We are to show compassion to the weak, to act with honesty, and to honor the God who made us. The Sabbath reminds us of creation, the festivals remind us of redemption and provision, and together they call us to a life centered on God.

May we, as followers of Christ, live out these same principles—justice, mercy, love, and worship—so that the world may see God’s character through us.

God’s Code of Conduct – Exodus 21:1–32

 

God’s Code of Conduct – Exodus 21:1–32

When we turn to Exodus 21, we enter into a part of Scripture that often makes us uncomfortable. Here, right after the giving of the Ten Commandments, God begins to lay down detailed laws for Israel’s daily life. These laws cover Hebrew slaves, homicide, and bodily injuries. While the details may seem foreign to us today, they reveal God’s desire to establish a society built on justice, accountability, and compassion.

Regulations Regarding Hebrew Slaves (Exodus 21:1–11)
In the ancient world, slavery was common, but God placed restrictions on it for His people. A Hebrew slave was not to be in bondage permanently. After six years, he was to be released in the seventh year, free and without debt. If a servant loved his master and wished to remain, there was a ceremony to make that decision permanent.

Women who were sold as servants were given special protection so they would not be treated as disposable property. These laws remind us that while slavery existed, God set boundaries to protect dignity. Hebrew slaves were not to be treated with the cruelty of later forms of slavery, especially the transatlantic slave trade. Yet, they were still considered property in a sense, and their freedom was limited. This shows us that God was working within the culture of the time, moving His people toward greater justice.

Regulations Concerning Homicide (Exodus 21:12–14)
God made a clear distinction between intentional murder and accidental killing. If a man struck and killed another intentionally, he was guilty and deserved death. But if it was accidental, God provided mercy through cities of refuge. Here, we see that life is sacred, and the taking of life unjustly carried severe consequences. These laws upheld the value of human life while balancing justice with mercy.

Regulations Concerning Bodily Injuries (Exodus 21:18–32)
The law also addressed personal injury. If someone struck another and caused harm, the one responsible had to compensate for lost time and ensure the victim’s healing. If a master injured a slave severely, that slave was to be set free. Even the death of an ox causing harm to a person was addressed, placing responsibility on the animal’s owner.

All of these laws formed a code of conduct, setting expectations for accountability and fairness. They taught Israel that God cared not just about worship, but also about how they treated one another in daily life.

Christian Reflection: What About Modern Slavery?
Although we no longer live under the Mosaic law, these passages challenge us today. While God tolerated regulated servitude in ancient times, the Bible’s greater story moves toward freedom and dignity for all people. Paul reminds us in Galatians 3:28 that in Christ there is neither slave nor free.

Sadly, slavery still exists in our world today—human trafficking, forced labor, and exploitation of the vulnerable. As Christians, we are called not to ignore it but to act. We can pray, support organizations that rescue and restore victims, and advocate for justice. Our faith is not only about personal salvation but about reflecting God’s heart for the oppressed.

What About Us Today?
Exodus 21 may seem distant, but it points us to a God who cares about justice, fairness, and compassion. He gave Israel a code of conduct to govern their community, reminding them that life and dignity matter. As followers of Christ, we are called to go further—working to bring freedom, dignity, and love to those who suffer under the weight of modern slavery.

Let us be a people who value every human life as God does, and who work to bring His justice and mercy into the world.

The Justice and Love of God: Understanding the Death of the Firstborn and the Flood

 

"The Justice and Love of God: Understanding the Death of the Firstborn and the Flood"

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Scripture Focus:
Exodus 12:29–30
Genesis 6–9
Romans 11:22
2 Peter 3:9

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Introduction:
There are few passages in the Bible that stir as many difficult questions as the death of the Egyptian firstborn during the final plague (Exodus 12:29–30) and the great Flood in Noah's time (Genesis 6–9). Many struggle to reconcile these judgments with the Bible’s clear proclamation that "God is love" (1 John 4:8). How can a loving God strike down children? How can He flood the earth, ending countless lives? These are not questions to brush aside, but to wrestle with honestly and humbly, remembering that God's ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8–9).

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God's Justice Is Always Righteous

The first step to understanding God's actions in these difficult moments is recognizing that He is perfectly just. Deuteronomy 32:4 says, "He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he." God is not arbitrary, cruel, or unfair. His justice flows from His holiness and perfection.

In Egypt, Pharaoh had defied God repeatedly, even after seeing miracle after miracle. Egypt's king had enslaved and murdered Israelite children (Exodus 1:22). The judgment on the firstborn was not sudden or unprovoked—it was the tenth plague, the final warning after a long series of rejected chances for repentance. The death of the firstborn was not merely about individuals; it was God striking directly at Egypt's gods (Exodus 12:12) and Pharaoh’s pride.

Collective Judgment in Scripture

In both the Exodus and the Flood, we see God responding not just to individual sin but to systemic, national, and generational wickedness.

Genesis 6:5 says: “The LORD saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time.”

In both stories, God's judgment came after patience and warnings. In the Flood, Noah preached righteousness for decades (2 Peter 2:5), giving people time to repent. In Egypt, God gave nine plagues before the final blow. These were not random acts of violence, but divine justice after mercy had been rejected.

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The Innocence of Children and the Sovereignty of God

When we read about the death of the firstborn or children in the Flood, it deeply troubles our human sense of fairness. Many ask: what about the innocent?

Scripture affirms that God cares for children. Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me... for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these” (Mark 10:14). While we don’t have detailed explanations about the eternal destiny of these children, we trust in the goodness and mercy of God. Genesis 18:25 asks: “Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?” The answer is yes. Always.

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God's Judgment Is Meant to Lead to Repentance

God does not take pleasure in judgment. Ezekiel 33:11 says, “As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live.” And 2 Peter 3:9 tells us, “The Lord... is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”

Yet when people reject mercy long enough, judgment becomes inevitable. Romans 11:22 reminds us to “consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God.” God is both loving and just. He offers grace—but His justice cannot and will not be ignored forever.

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The Cross: Where Justice and Love Meet

Ultimately, we understand God's justice and love best at the cross. There, God poured out His judgment—not on humanity, but on His Son. Isaiah 53:5 says, “He was pierced for our transgressions... the punishment that brought us peace was on him.”

God did not exempt even Himself from suffering. In Christ, God bore His own wrath, so that none of us would have to experience final judgment.

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Trusting God When We Don’t Understand

We may never fully understand why God allowed certain events in the Bible to unfold as they did. But we are called not to explain everything—but to trust the One who does.

Job 42:2–3 says:
“I know that you can do all things... Surely I spoke of things I did not understand, things too wonderful for me to know.”

Let us hold on to both the justice and love of God. He is not less loving because He is just, nor less just because He is loving. He is perfect in all His ways. May we stand in awe of His holiness, receive His mercy through Jesus, and trust in His eternal goodness.

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Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, You are holy, just, and full of mercy. When we struggle to understand Your ways, help us to remember that You see the full picture. Let us not harden our hearts like Pharaoh, but open them to Your grace. Teach us to fear You rightly and trust You fully. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More: EXODUS Sabbath School Lesson 5 - Passover

What You Sow, You Reap – The Firstborn Struck Down

 

“What You Sow, You Reap – The Firstborn Struck Down”

Text: Exodus 12:29–30; Hebrews 11:28

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Introduction:

Turn with me to Exodus 12:29–30, where the Word of God records one of the most sobering and devastating moments in biblical history:

“At midnight the Lord struck down all the firstborn in Egypt—from the firstborn of Pharaoh, who sat on the throne, to the firstborn of the prisoner, who was in the dungeon, and the firstborn of all the livestock as well. Pharaoh and all his officials and all the Egyptians got up during the night, and there was loud wailing in Egypt, for there was not a house without someone dead.”

This is the moment of divine judgment—the tenth and final plague. The Lord Himself struck Egypt at its heart. Why the firstborn? Why this specific blow? What can we learn from it today?

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Why the Firstborn?

The firstborn in ancient cultures held a place of honor. In Egypt, the firstborn son represented legacy, inheritance, strength, and future leadership. Striking the firstborn was a strike against the future of Egypt itself.

But there's more. Pharaoh himself was considered divine. His firstborn son would become the next "god-king." By striking down Pharaoh’s son, God demonstrated the impotence of Egypt’s gods. The deities of Egypt—Isis, Osiris, Ra, and others—were believed to protect life. But they were silent on this night. They could not stop the hand of the one true God.

This was not just judgment against people, but judgment against an entire religious system of idolatry. God was dismantling Egypt’s false hopes. As Exodus 12:12 says, “I will bring judgment on all the gods of Egypt. I am the Lord.”

A Reversal of Pharaoh’s Decree

Do you remember what an earlier Pharaoh did in Exodus 1? He issued a cruel decree that all Hebrew male babies were to be drowned in the Nile. That act of genocide was meant to crush the growth of Israel, God’s chosen people.

But now in Exodus 12, we see a reversal of judgment. The destroyer comes not for Hebrew children, but for Egypt’s firstborn. As Galatians 6:7 teaches, “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.”

This is divine justice—not arbitrary, but measured. Pharaoh tried to cut off God's people by targeting their children. Now God shows that He sees, He remembers, and He repays.

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The Role of Faith and Obedience (Hebrews 11:28)

Hebrews 11:28 says of Moses:

“By faith he kept the Passover and the application of blood, so that the destroyer of the firstborn would not touch the firstborn of Israel.”

Here we see a crucial truth: God’s mercy was extended—but only through obedience and faith. The Israelites were spared not because they were better, but because they obeyed God’s instructions and applied the blood of the lamb to their doorposts.

That blood symbolized covering and redemption—pointing forward to the blood of Jesus Christ, the perfect Lamb of God.

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When the Innocent Suffer for the Guilty

Let’s not ignore a hard truth in this story. Not every Egyptian was personally guilty of Pharaoh’s stubbornness. There were children, mothers, servants. Yet they all suffered because of one man’s prideful rebellion.

This is a sobering warning to us today: Our sins don’t only affect us. Sometimes, the innocent suffer because of the sins of leaders, parents, or those in authority. When we walk in pride or rebellion, we may bring pain into our homes, communities, and churches.

• A father’s addiction can destroy a family.

• A leader’s corruption can bankrupt a city.

• A pastor’s moral failure can shake the faith of many.

This story reminds us to walk humbly before God. Sin is never private. What we sow, we may reap—not just in our own lives, but in the lives of those we love.

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Final Application and Invitation

The story of the firstborn’s death in Egypt is terrifying, but also redemptive.

• It shows us God’s justice—He will not be mocked.

• It shows us God’s mercy—He provides a way of escape through the blood.

• And it shows us the urgency of faith and obedience.

We are all sinners. We all stand under judgment. But the blood of Jesus has been applied to the cross—and through faith in Him, death passes over us.

Let this story remind us:

• To take sin seriously.

• To walk in obedience.

• To protect the innocent by living in righteousness.

Choose today whom you will serve. Walk under the covering of the blood. And live as those who fear the Lord—and love others. Amen.

More: EXODUS Sabbath School Lesson 5 - Passover

God’s Mercy in the Courts of Heaven

 “A Thoughtful Judgment: God’s Mercy in the Courts of Heaven”

Scripture Foundation:
Daniel 7:9–10, 13–14, 22, 26–27
Genesis 18:17–32

A Courtroom in Heaven

Imagine a courtroom where the Judge is also your Advocate, where the books are open—not to condemn you—but to show how far God has gone to save you. That is the picture Daniel gives us in Daniel 7.

The prophet sees a vision: thrones set in place, the Ancient of Days taking His seat, and “the court was seated, and the books were opened” (Dan. 7:10). This is the Investigative Judgment, a process in heaven that reveals both the justice and mercy of God. It shows us the heart of the plan of salvation.

The Focus of the Judgment: God’s People

In Daniel 7:9–10, the heavenly judgment scene begins. But this judgment isn’t about a random display of power. The focus becomes clear in verse 22: "judgment was made in favor of the saints of the Most High." This is not about God trying to find a reason to exclude people from His kingdom—it’s about declaring who truly belongs to Him.

This divine courtroom is not hostile. God is not eager to punish, but to vindicate His people. The judgment is for them, not against them.

The Verdict: Victory for the Saints

Daniel 7:26–27 reveals the end of the process: the arrogant little horn power is destroyed, and “the kingdom and dominion... shall be given to the people, the saints of the Most High.” This is the verdict: God's people inherit the eternal kingdom.

This is stunning. Despite our weakness, despite the accusations of the enemy (Rev. 12:10), the judgment concludes with God’s faithful people receiving the kingdom. That verdict doesn’t just reveal justice—it reveals the grace embedded in God’s plan from the beginning.

A Glimpse of the Plan of Salvation

So what does this tell us about salvation?

• It tells us that salvation is not a cold, mechanical process.

• It’s not just about whether we’ve made mistakes—because we all have.

• It’s about who we have trusted. Have we clung to Christ, the Son of Man who appears before the Ancient of Days (Dan. 7:13–14)?

The judgment scene shows us a transfer of dominion—from evil powers to the Son of Man, and ultimately to the saints. Christ receives the kingdom, and then shares it with those who are His. This is the heart of the gospel: Christ wins, and He wins for us.

Abraham: God’s Thoughtful Judgment on Display

This scene in Daniel echoes another moment in Scripture when God reveals His character as a Judge: the conversation between Abraham and God about Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 18:17–32).

God didn’t just wipe Sodom off the map without thought or explanation. Instead, He says, “Shall I hide from Abraham what I am doing?” Then He invites Abraham into a dialogue about justice.

Abraham boldly asks, “Will You destroy the righteous with the wicked?” And God patiently replies, again and again, that if He finds even 10 righteous people in the city, He will spare it.

What do we learn from this?

• God does not judge rashly.

• He considers. He reasons. He looks for reasons not to destroy.

• He reveals His justice to His people and allows room for intercession.

This mirrors the judgment in Daniel 7. God opens the books. He invites review. He is transparent. His goal is not destruction, but redemption.

A Just and Saving Judge

When we see God as a judge, we often think of fear. But in Daniel 7, and in Abraham’s story, we see something different: a Judge who loves justice but delights in mercy.

• He does not rush to punish.

• He takes time to examine, to weigh, to seek the best for His people.

• The end result of the judgment is that the saints receive the kingdom.

Let us take comfort in this: the same God who spoke patiently with Abraham is the God presiding in the heavenly court. The same Christ who died for us stands before the Father on our behalf.

So when the books are opened, what will they show? Not just your failures—but Christ’s faithfulness. And that, friends, is a judgment you can rejoice in.

If you’ve been afraid of judgment, remember this: the one who judges you also died for you. Today, place your trust in the Son of Man. He stands for you. And one day soon, He will give you the kingdom. Let us live each day as citizens of that coming kingdom.

More: Lesson 10 - Upon Whom the Ends Have Come

The God Who Judges with Mercy

 “The God Who Judges with Mercy”

Text: Genesis 18:17–32

In Genesis 18, we witness one of the most astonishing conversations ever recorded in Scripture—a dialogue between God and a man, Abraham. The subject? The impending judgment of the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. This passage not only reveals the severity of sin but also the incredible mercy, patience, and justice of God. And as we reflect on the final judgment portrayed in Revelation, we see that the same God who spoke to Abraham is the One who will one day judge the whole earth—with perfect righteousness and compassion.

God Invites His People Into His Plans (Genesis 18:17–19):

“Shall I hide from Abraham what I am doing?” (v. 17)

God is not a distant ruler who makes secret decrees behind closed doors. He invites Abraham, His covenant friend, into a sacred conversation. This is the heart of intercession—a relationship where God shares His plans with His people so that they may respond in faith, prayer, and action.

In the same way, God reveals His plans for final judgment in books like Daniel and Revelation—not to frighten us, but to prepare us. We, too, are called to be intercessors in a world that is rushing toward judgment.

God Is Just—He Must Deal with Evil (Genesis 18:20–21):

“Because the outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is great, and because their sin is very grave…”

God hears the cry of the oppressed. The word “outcry” implies injustice, violence, and cruelty—much like the world we see today. God does not ignore evil. He investigates. He acts. His judgment is never impulsive or careless—it is deliberate, thorough, and fair.

This mirrors the heavenly judgment scene in Revelation 14:6–7 where an angel proclaims, “Fear God and give glory to Him, for the hour of His judgment has come.” God's justice is part of the good news because it means evil will not last forever.

God Is Patient and Merciful (Genesis 18:22–32):

This portion of Scripture is almost unbelievable: Abraham, a man, pleads with God for the wicked cities of the plain—and God listens. Over and over, Abraham lowers the number, and God agrees, “I will not destroy it for the sake of ten.”

What kind of God is this?
—A God who does not delight in destruction.
—A God who searches for even a handful of righteous people before executing judgment.
—A God who listens to the prayers of His children.

2 Peter 3:9 tells us that God is “not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” Revelation depicts the end of the world, but only after repeated calls for repentance. The three angels’ messages go to “every nation, tribe, tongue, and people” (Revelation 14:6). Judgment comes, but only after mercy has exhausted every avenue.

God’s Judgment Is Always Based on Knowledge and Fairness:

“I will go down now and see…” (Genesis 18:21)

This phrase doesn’t mean God lacks knowledge. Rather, it shows that His justice is never arbitrary. It is always based on a full and fair assessment. Likewise, in Revelation 20, the books are opened—evidence is revealed—before any final sentence is passed.

We often wonder why God delays in judging evil. The answer is: He wants every decision to be transparent and every opportunity for mercy exhausted. Judgment is not just about punishment—it’s about setting things right.

Genesis 18 gives us a glimpse into the heart of God—a heart that is just, yet merciful; firm against evil, yet open to intercession. This passage points us forward to the final judgment described in Revelation, where the same God who spoke with Abraham will bring this world's evil to an end—but not without offering salvation first.

As Abraham stood before God pleading for Sodom, so we must stand before God today—interceding for our cities, families, and world. Judgment is coming, yes, but so is mercy—if only we will receive it.

Our Call to Action:

Are you ready to stand before the Judge? Have you trusted in the mercy offered through Jesus Christ, our Advocate? And will you, like Abraham, plead for the lost while there is still time?

Let us take our place—not just as observers of God's justice, but as partners in His mission of redemption.

More: Lesson 10 - Upon Whom the Ends Have Come

The Joyful Justice of God: A Reflection on Psalm 67

"Blessed to Be a Blessing: The Global Vision of Psalm 67"

Psalm 67 Video:

 

Psalm 67 is a short, seven-verse hymn that serves as a prayer for God's blessing, not only upon Israel but upon all nations. It begins with a plea for God's grace and favor, echoing the priestly blessing from Numbers 6:24–26 ("May God be gracious to us and bless us..."). The psalmist then expresses a desire that God's ways and salvation be known throughout the world, leading to global praise. The central verse (v. 4) highlights joy and justice as reasons for nations to worship God. The psalm ends by affirming that God's blessing will result in worldwide reverence.

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Structure:

The psalm follows a chiastic structure (A-B-C-B'-A'):

• A (v.1): Prayer for blessing.

• B (v.2-3): Desire for global knowledge and praise of God.

• C (v.4): Central theme of God’s just rule over the nations.

• B' (v.5): Repetition of desire for global praise.

• A' (v.6-7): Blessing leads to fear/reverence of God by all.

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Analysis:

1. Universal Focus:
   While rooted in Israel’s covenant relationship with God, Psalm 67 is outward-facing. It shows a missional theology—Israel’s blessing is not an end in itself but a means for the world to come to know and worship God.

2. Justice and Joy:
   The psalm connects God’s governance with joy (v.4). Divine justice is not depicted as oppressive but as a cause for rejoicing, suggesting a moral order that brings peace and equity.

3. Harvest Imagery (v.6):
   The mention of the earth yielding its increase implies both physical blessing (abundant crops) and spiritual blessing (fruitfulness of mission), possibly reflecting a harvest festival setting like the Feast of Weeks (Pentecost).

4. Inclusivity in Worship:
   Psalm 67 envisions a time when all people, regardless of nation, will come to worship the one true God. This anticipates themes found in the prophets and later in the New Testament.

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Key Themes:

• God's blessing as a vehicle for global salvation.

• Universal praise and worship.

• God as a just and joyful ruler.

• The interconnection between divine favor and human response.

Blessed to Be a Blessing: The Witness of God’s People

 

Blessed to Be a Blessing: The Witness of God’s People

Text: Psalm 67; Revelation 14:6–12

Psalm 67 is a hymn of praise, radiant with hope and overflowing with the desire that "Your way may be known on earth, your salvation among all nations" (Psalm 67:2). It is a missionary psalm, and more than that, a global prayer. It reveals God's heart not just for Israel, but for all peoples. It is deeply connected to the covenantal promise to Abraham—that through his seed, all nations of the earth would be blessed (Genesis 12:3).

But Psalm 67 does more than echo a promise; it calls God’s people to live in such a way that the nations come to know God. When we turn to Revelation 14:6–12, we see this mission fulfilled and sharpened in a time of judgment. Together, these passages show us what it means to be God’s people—blessed, not for comfort, but for purpose.

God Blesses His People for the Sake of the World (Psalm 67:1–2)

"May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine on us—so that your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among all nations." (Psalm 67:1–2)

This psalm begins with a blessing that sounds familiar—it echoes the priestly blessing of Numbers 6. But here’s the twist: this blessing isn't just about God being kind to us. It’s about God making His goodness visible so that the world might see Him. The psalmist is not asking for blessing as an end in itself, but as a means to global witness.

Psalm 67:2 is central: God blesses His people so that His ways—His character, His salvation—might be made known. This is our vocation as the people of God. We are not chosen to hoard grace, but to reflect it. God's people are to be the radiant mirror of His truth to a dark world.

A Global Vision of Worship and Justice (Psalm 67:3–5)

"May the peoples praise you, God; may all the peoples praise you. May the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you rule the peoples with equity and guide the nations of the earth." (vv. 3–4)

Here is the heartbeat of missions: not just that people hear the gospel, but that they come to praise God. That the nations rejoice in Him—not under compulsion, but with gladness. Why? Because He rules with equity. The psalm connects God's global rule with justice. The peoples of the earth can rejoice because God is not a tyrant; He is righteous, fair, and trustworthy.

This is a glimpse of the end goal: a worldwide community of worshippers, rejoicing in the just reign of God. And the Church, God’s people, are the light that points the way.

The Final Witness in Revelation 14:6–12

Now turn to Revelation 14. The scene shifts from a joyful psalm to an urgent, apocalyptic warning. But notice the connection:

"Then I saw another angel flying in midair, and he had the eternal gospel to proclaim to those who live on the earth—to every nation, tribe, language and people." (Rev. 14:6)

This is the final echo of Psalm 67’s prayer: that the salvation of God would reach all the nations. But here, we see the urgency sharpened by coming judgment. The call is the same: Fear God and give Him glory! But now the time is short.

The role of God’s people in Revelation 14 is sobering. We are not only witnesses of grace—we are also witnesses of judgment. The gospel we proclaim includes both the invitation to joy and the warning of wrath. Verses 9–11 speak of the fate of those who follow the beast, who reject God’s way. The message is clear: the decisions of nations matter. Worship matters. Allegiance matters.

Yet even in this warning, there is a remnant who remain faithful:

"This calls for patient endurance on the part of the people of God who keep His commands and remain faithful to Jesus." (Rev. 14:12)

This is our calling: to endure, to obey, and to bear witness. To speak the truth in love—even when it’s hard.

Our Role in the Story

Psalm 67 and Revelation 14 together teach us that God's people are both blessed and sent. We are recipients of grace—but not to keep it to ourselves. God’s blessing is missional. It is given so that His salvation may be known.

Psalm 67:2 must shape how we live. Our prayer is not just “God bless me,” but “God bless me so that the nations might see You.”

And Revelation 14 reminds us that this mission is urgent. The eternal gospel must be proclaimed now. Time is short. The world needs to see the way of salvation through us.

• Ask God to bless you—not just for your own comfort, but so you might be a light in your neighborhood, workplace, and beyond.

• Speak the truth of the gospel with courage and compassion, knowing that both salvation and judgment are real.

• Live a life of praise, justice, and witness. Be a reflection of the blessing of God to the nations.

May God be gracious to us and bless us and make His face shine on us—so that His ways may be known on earth, His salvation among all nations. Amen.

More: Lesson 9: In the Psalms: Part 2

Sacrifice and True Worship

Let's reflect on sacrifice, and look at three passages that call us to see beyond the smoke of burnt offerings and into the deeper altar of the human heart.

The First Futile Sacrifice (Genesis 4:3–5).

Cain’s offering was futile because it stemmed from a hard, unrepentant heart and lacked genuine faith—God values the attitude behind the gift, not merely the gift itself.

The Futility of Empty Ritual (Isaiah 1:2–15).
God’s voice thunders, “Come now, let us reason together… Your hands are full of blood.” The people have laden Him with sacrifices—festivals, burnt offerings, music—but their injustice, violence, and idolatry blot out their worship. God declares these rituals “an abomination” (v.13), for without repentance they become a mockery.

The Call to True Worship (Isaiah 56:6–7).
Contrast this with the vision of God’s house as “a house of prayer for all peoples.” Here, strangers—foreigners—are welcomed and their offerings honored. The heart that seeks God in humility and justice turns the temple into “my house of prayer,” not by pedigree or perfunctory rite, but by genuine devotion.

The Power of a Contrite Heart (Psalm 51:17).
David, aware of his own brokenness, sings, “The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, you will not despise.” He shows us that what God truly desires is not the fat of rams or rivers of oil, but a spirit willing to acknowledge sin, to mourn over it, and to turn back.

Lessons on Sacrifice

1. Ritual without Righteousness Is Hollow. If our worship does not flow into justice toward the oppressed, mercy to the needy, and integrity before our neighbor, it becomes empty formality (Isaiah 1).

2. God Welcomes All Who Come in Humility. Nationality or ritual background cannot bar the contrite soul from God’s table. True sacrifice opens the door wider, not narrower (Isaiah 56).

3. The Highest Offering Is Sincerity of Heart. External offerings must be undergirded by an inward transformation. Only a broken, honest spirit meets God’s standard (Psalm 51).

Were Ancient Sacrifices all "Futile"?

In ancient Israel, animal sacrifices were a central part of the worship system, symbolizing atonement for sin and the people's desire to be reconciled with God. However, these sacrifices did not actually remove sin; they served as a temporary covering and a foreshadowing of a greater sacrifice to come. As the book of Hebrews explains, “it is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins” (Hebrews 10:4). The rituals highlighted both the seriousness of sin and the need for a perfect, once-for-all sacrifice—fulfilled ultimately in Jesus Christ, whose death brought true and complete atonement.

Do We Make Futile Sacrifices?

Ask yourself: Do I pray out of habit but harbor bitterness? Give generously yet neglect the poor on my street? Attend worship yet refuse to forgive? Such acts—unaccompanied by love, mercy, and humility—are gilded but empty.

Invitation: Let us lay aside dead works and bring real sacrifice: a heart crucified to pride, alive in compassion; lips that confess and hands that serve. In this, our God delights—and in this, our worship is made whole.

More: Lesson 6 Understanding Sacrifice

The Weightier Matters of the Law

 

Scripture Reading: Matthew 23:23-24; Deuteronomy 5:12-15; Isaiah 58:13-14

In Matthew 23:23-24, Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for their hypocrisy. They meticulously tithe herbs like mint and dill but neglect the “weightier matters of the law”—justice, mercy, and faithfulness. He does not dismiss the importance of tithing but calls them to a deeper righteousness that reflects God's heart.

The Weightier Matters of the Law:
Justice, mercy, and faithfulness are at the core of God's law. While the Pharisees focused on outward obedience, they overlooked these essential principles. God’s commands are not mere rules but expressions of His character—loving, just, and merciful.

The Sabbath and God’s Concern for Justice:
Deuteronomy 5:12-15 links the Sabbath to deliverance. God commands Israel to rest, reminding them of their former slavery in Egypt. The Sabbath is not just about personal rest but about justice—ensuring that all, including servants and strangers, experience relief and dignity.

Isaiah 58:13-14 further clarifies the spirit of the Sabbath. It is not a day of self-seeking but a time to delight in the Lord, reflecting His justice and compassion. When we honor the Sabbath properly, we participate in God's work of setting the oppressed free and lifting burdens.

How does this Apply to Us?
True obedience to God’s law goes beyond rituals. Are we practicing justice in our daily lives? Are we showing mercy to the broken? Are we faithful to God's commands in both spirit and action? Honoring the Sabbath means more than resting—it means living in a way that promotes justice and extends God's deliverance to others.

Live as Jesus Taught
Jesus calls us to a faith that is not just outward but transformative. The weightier matters of the law—justice, mercy, and faithfulness—must shape how we live, love, and worship. Let us not major in the minors but seek to reflect God's heart in all we do.

Prayer:
Lord, help us to embrace Your law with justice, mercy, and faithfulness. Teach us to honor the Sabbath as a time of rest and restoration, not only for ourselves but for others. May we live as people who reflect Your love and righteousness in the world. Amen.

More: Lesson 13 Love Is the Fulfillment of the Law

Next Quarter: Allusions, Images, Symbols: How to Study Bible Prophecy