Our God is more merciful than most can imagine, yet because He is just, He must render or allow judgment for unrepentant sin and rebellion. Some believe He does not bring or allow judgment upon individuals or nations now because Jesus died for the sins of the world, and therefore judgment has been reserved for the end of time.
A cursory glance through the Old Testament reveals God’s abhorrence for the sin and rebellion that continually sullied the nation of Israel, from the time they were delivered from Egypt, until the time of Christ. Over and over again, He would allow their enemies to ravage their land, take them captive, and bring them under bondage (Judges 2:1-23; Isaiah 63:10; Psalms 107:11-14)
However, when they repented and turned from their idolatry and evil ways, He would always send a deliverer to bring them out of bondage and captivity. Even after they were dispersed to Babylon, the prophet Jeremiah declared the Lord would bring them back to their land and bless them after seventy years (Jeremiah 29:10).
The consequences of unrepentant sin are dangerous and costly. This is why we are wise to keep our hearts tender before the Lord and repent quickly when we miss it.
The Lord is always abounding with mercy and has often spared us many rightful consequences for our sins simply because we have acknowledged our wrong and turned to Him for cleansing, forgiveness, and grace to walk uprightly.
He promises to be faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). This faithfulness is to honor His Son’s shed blood and sacrificial death on our behalf. He regards what Jesus has done for us and shows us mercy and compassion. It is not our goodness, but Christ’s sacrifice and shed blood that is our propitiation for sin. This should bring us great peace and assurance.
That being said, why does it appear that some, even in the New Testament, came under judgment for their sin? Let’s look at some examples to discover the answer.
In the book of Acts, two individuals came under severe judgment for lying against the Holy Spirit.
1) But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession. 2) And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles' feet.
3) But Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself? 4) While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God."
5) Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things. 6) And the young men arose and wrapped him up, carried him out, and buried him.
7) Now it was about three hours later when his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8) And Peter answered her, "Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?" She said, "Yes, for so much."
9) Then Peter said to her, "How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out."
10) Then immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. And the young men came in and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband. 11) So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things. Act 5:1-11
Some may wonder why this seemingly small incident had such a severe consequence, but we must try to see if from the Lord’s perspective.
The Church had just been birthed and there was a spirit of unity, transparency, and caring among the believers. The power of God was moving among them in a dynamic way. With great glory and power, comes great responsibility and accountability.
For this couple to deliberately plot to be hypocritical and dishonest about their giving was an egregious sin against the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30). These two did not reverence God nor what He was doing in the midst of the Church.
Their act of lying was not against Peter or the other apostles, it was against the Spirit of God. Judgment came quickly so others would not be tainted by this hypocrisy. It was also a warning so this sin would not spread or infiltrate the rest of the Body (Acts 5:11).
26) For if we sin willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, 27) but a certain fearful expectation of judgment, and fiery indignation which will devour the adversaries. 28) Anyone who has rejected Moses' law dies without mercy on the testimony of two or three witnesses.
29) Of how much worse punishment, do you suppose, will he be thought worthy who has trampled the Son of God underfoot, counted the blood of the covenant by which he was sanctified a common thing, and insulted the Spirit of grace?
30) For we know Him who said, "VENGEANCE IS MINE, I WILL REPAY," says the Lord. And again, "THE LORD WILL JUDGE HIS PEOPLE." 31) It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. Hebrews 10:26-31
These are very sobering passages, but nonetheless a part of the whole council and wisdom of God. When we only accept one part of God’s nature or ways, we are deceiving ourselves and those who follow us.
Electricity does not respect personalities, ethnicities, education, or social class. When managed properly it will benefit those utilizing its power, but if it is trifled with there can be serious and life-threatening consequences.
Likewise, God does not show partiality to anyone over another. We are all saved by grace through faith (See Ephesians 2:8-9).
34) Then Peter opened his mouth and said: "In truth I perceive that God shows no partiality. 35) But in every nation whoever fears Him and works righteousness is accepted by Him. Acts 10:34-35
We’ll pick this up next time with a few more New Testament examples to consider. Until next time, may God our Heavenly Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ richly bless you and keep you.
James Brown
CST 11/07/2024