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In exploring the distinct characteristics of God, theologians often define “grace” as receiving what one doesn't deserve, and “mercy” as not receiving what one does deserve. Ray, E.Z., Mark, and Oscar remind listeners that every breath is an unearned mercy, reinforcing the concept that grace is not guaranteed. Christians should be careful not to abuse God's mercy, as sinning because of mercy leads to judgment without mercy.
Grace and mercy, intertwined, reveal God's kindness and love, yet justice remains a crucial consideration. Rejecting God's love, kindness, mercy, and grace invites justice without the cushion of grace. The crucifixion of Jesus on the Cross becomes the pivotal moment where grace, mercy, and God's justice harmonize, granting humanity what it doesn't deserve.
The term "perfect" aptly describes God's flawless mercy, mirrored in Christ's atonement. The guys discuss Christ's substitutionary atonement, washing away sins and satisfying justice, and serves as a reminder that God doesn't deal with individuals based on their sins. Ungratefulness often stems from overlooking life's every breath as a gift from God, even trials and circumstances as opportunities for divine work.
Ephesians 2:1-5 reminds believers of their shared past state, emphasizing God's rich mercy. Pride often clouds the memory of being equally deserving of wrath. Theologian John Calvin highlights the necessity of understanding indebtedness to God's mercy for sincere worship. Pastor and theologian John Chapell notes that gratitude, rooted in mercy, motivates enduring Christian service. Examining 1 Peter 1-3 emphasizes God's abundant mercy in spiritual rebirth, inseparable from the gospel.
Reflecting on 2 Samuel 24:14, David acknowledges God's great mercy in distress, urging believers to repent and trust in God's character. To fully appreciate and extend God's mercy, acknowledgment of justified law, judgment, and wrath is vital.
The guys underscore God's greater delight in mercy over wrath. Exodus 20:19 reveals a fear of God meant to prevent sin, a fear believers must cultivate, intertwined with the mercy saving them from wrath. Magnifying God's grace requires recognizing other components like discipline, an aspect of mercy.
In conclusion, mercy's intricate interplay with grace, justice, and discipline reveals God's boundless love. Fostering a reverent fear and gratitude in response to God's mercy motivates a life aligned with His divine plan. Believers find themselves enveloped in the transformative power of God's unconditional and perfect love.
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Visit the Living Waters website to learn more and to access helpful resources!
You can find helpful counseling resources at biblicalcounseling.com.
Check out The Evidence Study Bible and the Basic Training Course.
You can connect with us at podcast@livingwaters.com. We're thankful for your input!
Learn more about the hosts of this podcast.
Ray Comfort
Emeal (“E.Z.”) Zwayne
Mark Spence
Oscar Navarro
Ep. 223 - How Christians Can Stand Strong for Truth Without Being Harsh and Prideful
Ep. 222 - What Christians Need to Know About Islam
Ep. 221 - How to Effectively Do Outreach Through the Local Church
Ep. 220 - Dangers of the Word of Faith Movement
Ep. 219 - How to Reach Gen Z With the Gospel
Ep. 218 - How to Become a Lifelong Lover and Defender of the Truth
Ep. 217 - How to Honor God Through Good Etiquette
Ep. 216 - How to Be a Godly Gentleman
Ep. 215 - Exploring the Human Conscience
Ep. 214 - How to Deal With Past Regrets
Ep. 213 - What It Actually Means to Have Purpose in Life
Ep. 212 - Exploring the Destructiveness of Adultery
Ep. 211 - Why Stealing Has Become so Fashionable
Ep. 210 - Examining What Compels People to Murder
Ep. 209 - What Exactly Does It Mean to Lie?
Ep. 208 - Ray Comfort’s Amazing Testimony
Ep. 207 - What Does It Really Mean to Take God’s Name in Vain?
Ep. 206 - Is Gambling a Sin?
Ep. 205 - How to Avoid the Sin of Partiality
Ep. 204 - How to Find Freedom From Bitterness
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