BALANCING THE GOODNESS AND SEVERITY OF GOD

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READ Romans 11:13-25

This morning our focus is upon Romans 11:22, "Behold therefore the goodness and severity of God: on them which fell, severity; but toward thee, goodness, if thou continue in His goodness: otherwise thou also shalt be cut off."

In this chapter, we have seen Paul develop both “the goodness and severity of God.”  Many are the people who are ready to speak of the goodness of God.  Few are those who recognize and contemplate the severity of God.  Earlier in the chapter, we were reminded of the grandeur of God's grace.  Yet, now, we are reminded of God's chastening which indeed can be severe. His own people, who fell through their hardness of heart and unbelief, has come the severity of God. Yet on us, the Gentile church, has been His goodness. The admonition to “continue in His goodness” lest we be cut off is not a directive for maintaining our position in Christ through works. Rather, it deals with His blessing in distinction to chastening. Our standing is by grace through faith.  However, reward and blessing, in the meantime, often are related to what we do. When God’s people, whether Jew or Gentile, are disobedient; they risk being cut off from the fulness of God's blessing.


I hope you have a balanced view of God that has been developed over the years through your study of Scripture and attendance in a Bible-preaching church.  May we continue in His goodness seeking to glorify Him.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATION

1.  When you picture God, do you see Him as a holy and righteous God who grants both mercy and judgment?

2.  What is the only way to get an accurate view of God's true nature and character?

3.  No person or nation of people is above committing the same sins as Israel: unbelief, complacency, and pride.  What can you do to keep yourself from repeating their sins?

4.  What does it mean to continue in God's goodness?  What are some things in your life that could prevent you from walking in goodness?