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🗣 Speaker: Justine Biscocho Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnHOfXIUfAM
Why I Believe a God of Love Kills
A time to kill, And a time to heal; Ecclesiastes 3:3 NKJV
I was having dinner with a friend from church, at the Olive Garden restaurant not far from the church. She was explaining some new and “wonderful” things she was learning about hell from a Christian website. She explained how God does not destroy people in hell. They actually destroy themselves. To an extent I believed much of what she said, but not everything.
She said it was very important for me to agree totally with her because if God is love, He cannot kill. After all, that would be breaking one of the commandments based on love. Here is where she and I disagreed. I believe a God of love does kill. Let me share one reason why I believe this.
Many years ago my late mother had a friend ,who I will call Jane, who had a very abusive husband. After years of abuse and threats on her life and even the lives of their children, Jane finally left her abusive husband. She then met a very mild-mannered, quiet, easy-going man we will call Joe. Joe was a Christian, and though he was not an Adventist like Jane, they fell in love and married. Joe moved in with Jane and her children.
Jane’s abusive ex-husband still continued his harassment. Joe, being a very meek and mild Christian took it all patiently until one night when, as a loving husband, he had no choice but to act. Jane’s abusive ex-husband drove by the house and fired gunshots into the home, including his own kids’ bedrooms! The police were called, of course, but that night something happened, and we all saw another side of meek and mild-mannered Joe.
When the ex-husband called the house after his rampage, Jane answered the phone. But when Joe realized who was calling, Joe took the phone, and calmly, yet clearly and boldly, said what no one dreamed such a quiet, easy-going man would ever say. He told the abusive ex-husband, “If you ever come near my family again, I. WILL. KILL YOU.”
The abusive ex knew Joe was a hunter and as meek, mild, quiet and easy-going as he was, the ex knew Joe was not making empty threats. Jane says that was the last time anything like that ever happened. The children felt secure with their new daddy in the home because they knew he loved them enough to kill to protect them.
Many years later, when the abusive ex-husband died, the doctor told his now grown daughter he was dead. The daughter broke into tears. When the doctor tried to console her, the mother explained to the doctor that those were not tears of grief. They were tears of joy! For the first time in her life the daughter no longer had to worry about threats being made on her life. Just a few years ago, Joe finally died at a ripe old age. This time the children cried tears of actual grief. Their “daddy,” their “protector” was now gone. It was a playful, mild-mannered loving daddy who proved his love when he discovered that someone was threatening their lives, who said, “I. WILL. KILL. YOU.”
While the Adventist church supports those in the military who refuse to bear arms, like Desmond Doss, some Adventists are surprised to learn that the church does not condemn those who choose to bear arms. Exact policies may vary from country to country, but. while the Adventist church encourages members not to bear arms, the church does not condemn Adventists who choose to bear arms. After all, it would be illogical for Adventists in free countries to celebrate their freedom and then condemn those who have killed to protect it.
Some say that if God kills, then He would be breaking the commandment “Thou shalt not kill.” But that demonstrates a misunderstanding of the sixth commandment. In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus clarifies the spirit of the law. Concerning the sixth commandment Jesus says,
“You have heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder, and whoever murders will be in danger of the judgment.’ But I say to you that whoever is angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the judgment.” Matthew 5:21-22 NKJV
While Jesus condemns murder, which is an act of hate, Jesus is not condemning killing in self-defense or in defense of others. After all, the Jews in the book of Esther were allowed to defend themselves. See Esther 8:13. In Nehemiah they worked next to their weapons. See Nehemiah 4:16. And while Jesus chastised Peter for defending Him with the sword, that was because Jesus was already on the path to sacrifice Himself in behalf of humanity, as foretold by Scripture. Jesus still encouraged the disciples to have swords for their own sake. See Luke 22:36-38.
I agreed with much of what my friend said at Olive Garden. The wicked pretty much hang themselves, and self-destruct. Yet, making the point that a God of love would never kill, appears to me to be both inaccurate and an unnecessary point to try to make. My friend’s premise was based on the “fact” that a God of love can’t kill. To me, that is a faulty premise not found anywhere in Scripture. I believe a God of love can kill, and furthermore I believe there are times God shows His love by killing. Just like a quiet, meek, easy-going, mild-mannered daddy proved his love by being willing to kill so his family would feel loved and secure. If my friend’s daddy had not been willing to kill to protect his family he would not have really loved them.
The Bible does not say there is a time to let the wicked self-destruct. The Bible says there is a time to kill. See Ecclesiastes 3:3. I see absolutely no contradiction between God being a God of love and God killing those who threaten the peace and harmony of the universe.

Source: https://ssnet.org/blog/why-i-believe-a-god-of-love-kills/
Un pastor muere en las inundaciones de Australia
Las labores de búsqueda y rescate están a punto de entrar en su segundo día completo en busca del pastor desaparecido William (Willie) Strickland, de 53 años, cuyo vehículo fue arrastrado fuera de la carretera por la crecida de las aguas el sábado por la noche en la región de Northern Rivers, en Nueva Gales […] Source: https://atoday.org/un-pastor-muere-en-las-inundaciones-de-australia/
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Lesson 5.The Wrath of Divine Love | 5.2 God is Slow to Anger | THE GOD OF LOVE AND JUSTICE | LIVING FAITH
5.2 God is Slow to Anger
Patience and Grace as Expressions of Divine Love
Look at the Story of Jonah and Reflect on His Reaction to God’s Merciful Forgiveness for the Ninevites (Jonah 4:1–4). What Does This Tell Us About Jonah and About God? (See also Matt 10:8)
The story of Jonah and God’s mercy toward the Ninevites powerfully illustrates the depth of God’s grace and patience—and also how challenging it can be for us humans to comprehend and extend this grace ourselves. Jonah’s reaction reveals two central lessons for our faith and life.
First, Jonah’s behavior exposes his hard-heartedness and lack of willingness to grant others the grace he himself received from God. Jonah hated the Assyrians so much that he wanted to see them condemned for their sins instead of rejoicing over their repentance and God’s forgiveness. This attitude serves as a warning to us: Those who receive grace from God should also be willing to extend that grace to others—regardless of how much we feel they “deserve” it or not. God’s mercy is unmerited, and this applies equally to all people.
Second, Jonah’s reaction highlights the central role of God’s mercy and patience in His nature. Jonah knew that God is “gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, abounding in love” (Jonah 4:2), and therefore God hesitated to punish the Ninevites even though their sins were evident. The Hebrew expression “slow to anger,” which can metaphorically be translated as “slow-minded,” shows that God’s patience and long-suffering far exceed human measures. While humans often become angry quickly, God takes His time, provides room for repentance, and consistently displays His inexhaustible grace.
However, God’s patience does not mean He ignores sin or tolerates injustice. Instead, He offers reconciliation through the cross, where justice and mercy come together. God has created a way in which He remains just while also being the justifier of those who believe in Him (Romans 3:25-26). The cross demonstrates how God’s justice and love work harmoniously: He judges evil but simultaneously offers grace and forgiveness.
For our lives, this means that we should not only receive God’s patience and grace but also reflect them. We are called to be patient with others, even when they have wronged us, and to live out God’s unmerited grace in our relationships. Jonah’s failure can remind us to keep our hearts from becoming hard and to learn how God forgives—not because it is easy, but because it is the path He has modeled for us. God’s patience is not only a comfort but also a call to make His mercy visible in our own lives.
Have you ever been angry with someone who has wronged you? How can this feeling help you better understand God’s wrath over evil? How can we show mercy and grace without letting sin run rampant or allowing abuse or oppression?
This is a difficult but honest question that each of us must reflect on: Have we ever withheld mercy or grace from someone who has wronged us? Often, we react out of pain, pride, or the desire to seek justice. However, these moments remind us how often God has shown us grace despite our faults.
How We Can Remember God’s Grace To be more lenient with others, it is helpful to consciously reflect on what God has done for us. Here are some practical approaches:
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Maintain Gratitude: When we regularly remember God’s forgiveness in our lives, such as through prayer or Bible reading, it becomes easier to extend this grace to others. A Bible verse like Romans 5:8 (“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us”) can serve as an anchor.
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View Forgiveness as a Decision: Forgiveness does not mean forgetting or excusing wrongdoing. It is a conscious decision to let go of others and leave ultimate justice to God.
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Study Jesus’ Example: In moments of struggle, we can remember how Jesus prayed for His enemies while on the cross: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing” (Luke 23:34). His love for us despite our sin shows us the way.
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Combine Justice with Forgiveness: True grace promotes repentance. It shows others the possibility of a new path instead of seeking revenge.
Living a Life of Grace By reflecting on God’s grace in our lives, we realize that forgiveness and mercy do not depend on our own strength. It is God who empowers us to rise above our pain and show love, even when it is difficult. At the same time, we can be assured that mercy never means promoting sin or allowing abuse or oppression but always serves to bring healing and restoration—in ourselves and in others.
These divine attributes are not only a model but also a challenge for how we handle injustice, conflicts, and others’ faults.
Patience and Mercy in Our Daily Lives
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Learning to Forgive:
In daily life, we repeatedly encounter situations where we are wronged—whether in family, friendships, or professional settings. God’s patience with the Ninevites reminds us that we are called to refrain from quick judgment or angry reactions and instead practice forgiveness and leniency. However, this forgiveness is not a sign of weakness but a conscious decision that shows we carry God’s love within us.
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Practicing Long-Suffering:
The phrase “slow to anger” demonstrates the importance of not reacting impulsively to difficult situations. Instead of acting out of anger, we can pause, pray, and seek God’s wisdom. This prevents us from worsening the situation through our reactions and shows others God’s character through our actions.
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Being Compassionate Toward Others:
Jonah’s story warns us not to harden our hearts, even toward those who have wronged us. God invites us to adopt the perspective of His overflowing grace, which He continually bestows upon us. Thus, we can respond with compassion and humility in our daily interactions, even when it is challenging.
Our Faith in Light of God’s Grace
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Gratitude for God’s Patience:
When we reflect on God’s patience and grace, we recognize how often He has shown us love and forgiveness despite our faults. This realization strengthens our faith and encourages us to trust Him, even in moments of failure.
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Living a Life of Grace:
By embracing God’s grace in our faith life, we can become a model for others. Our responses to conflicts and challenges can serve as a living testimony of how faith has transformed us.
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Balancing Mercy and Justice:
God’s patience also teaches us that mercy does not equate to tolerating sin. We can engage others with love while upholding truth and justice. It’s about finding a balance—showing grace while also promoting responsibility and repentance.
Practical Application
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Reflection:
We should regularly reflect on God’s grace in our lives. Gratitude for what God has forgiven us transforms our attitude toward others.
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Prayer:
In moments of anger, we can pray for the patience and wisdom needed to respond like God.
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Action:
We can consciously take steps to show grace and mercy in our relationships, whether through forgiveness, a loving conversation, or the willingness to welcome someone back.
Summary
The connection between God’s patience and our daily lives lies in the challenge to live His example: slow to anger, rich in mercy, and ready to extend grace. These qualities are the foundation for a faith life that honors God and inspires others. We are invited to reflect these divine attributes in our relationships with others while maintaining a balance between grace and justice. God’s patience is not a sign of weakness but an expression of His infinite love—it gives us the opportunity for repentance and shows us how to respond to others with grace.
God’s patience is not a contradiction to His love but an expression of it—He combats evil to protect what He loves.
27.01.2025 – Colossians Chapter 3 | BELIEVE HIS PROPHETS
January 27, 2024
DAILY BIBLE READING – Colossians Chapter 3
1 If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.
2 Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.
3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.
4 When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.
5 Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry:
6 For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:
7 In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them.
8 But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth.
9 Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds;
10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him:
11 Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all.
12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;
13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.
14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.
15 And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.
17 And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.
18 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.
19 Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.
20 Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.
21 Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.
22 Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God;
23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
24 Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
25 But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.
King James Version. Public Domain
Commentary
Introduction
Colossians Chapter 3 is a call to believers to fully renew their lives in Christ. It centers on the contrast between the “old self,” characterized by sinful desires and worldly thinking, and the “new self,” fashioned in the image of Christ. Paul admonishes believers to turn away from earthly things and to strive for what is “above.” He provides practical instructions on living in love, forgiveness, and gratitude, and outlines a Christian household order based on mutual respect and reverence for God. This chapter invites an inner transformation made possible through Christ.
Commentary
In this chapter, Paul presents a clear challenge to the believers: they are to put off their “old self” and put on the “new self,” which is being renewed in Christ. The metaphorical language emphasizes that spiritual change is not merely superficial but involves a complete renewal of character and lifestyle. The exhortation to “seek what is above” directs focus toward eternal values and the glory of Christ, rather than being distracted by worldly desires and fleeting goals.
Particularly striking is the list of things believers are to put away: anger, malice, slander, and other sins that destroy interpersonal relationships. These negative traits are to be replaced with positive virtues such as mercy, kindness, humility, and patience. This highlights that the transformation into the “new self” is not passive but requires a conscious decision and active effort.
The central role of love is emphasized, as it is “the bond of perfection.” Love is the foundation for harmonious living, whether in the church, family, or society. Paul stresses that love is the key to peace and gratitude, which should govern the hearts of believers. The peace of God, which is mediated through Christ, is presented as the standard for decisions and the basis for relationships.
A notable part of the chapter is the Christian household code, where Paul provides specific instructions for spouses, children, fathers, and servants. These instructions are based on mutual responsibility and reverence for God, demonstrating that the Christian life affects not only personal faith but also social and familial relationships. The exhortation to “do everything wholeheartedly, as if working for the Lord and not for people” underscores the importance of inner attitude. It is a call to perform all activities—whether spiritual or everyday—with a heart of gratitude and service to God.
Overall, the chapter offers comprehensive guidance for a life oriented toward Christ. It combines theological principles with practical applications, illustrating how faith should shape personal life and community interactions.
Summary
Colossians Chapter 3 calls believers to renew their lives in Christ by putting off the “old self” with its sinful actions and putting on the “new self,” which is created in the image of Christ. Paul urges them to rid themselves of earthly desires and to seek the things that are “above,” where Christ reigns. He emphasizes the importance of love, forgiveness, and peace as the foundation of a Christian life. Additionally, he provides practical instructions for relationships within the family and social environment, focusing on mutual respect and reverence for God. The chapter concludes with an exhortation to do everything wholeheartedly for the Lord and to remain thankful. It serves as a powerful guide for living a life that glorifies Christ.
WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 2—The Sinner’s Need of Christ
Read online here
Commentary
Introduction
Chapter 2 vividly describes the state of humanity after the fall of man. It shows how humanity was separated from God and, in its weakness, incapable of freeing itself from the bondage of sin. Through disobedience, the originally noble capabilities of humans were corrupted, and selfishness replaced love. In this state, the dependence of humans on God’s grace and the necessity of redemption through Christ are emphasized. The chapter makes it clear that only through Christ is the restoration of the connection with God possible, as He is the sole mediator between heaven and earth.
Commentary
This chapter presents the profound truth that humanity is lost without divine intervention. The original state of man, characterized by holiness, love, and fellowship with God, was radically altered by the fall of man. Humanity lost its spiritual strength and became a prisoner of sin and Satan. This estrangement from God not only led to a lack of joy in holiness but also to a departure from fellowship with God. The idea that a sinner could not experience joy even in heaven, as their inclinations and motives are entirely opposed to heavenly ones, is particularly striking. This illustrates that redemption is not merely a legal act but an inner transformation of the heart.
A central element of the chapter is the recognition that humans, by their own power, are unable to escape sin. Education, moral efforts, or external rituals cannot change the heart. This highlights the absolute necessity of God’s intervention through Christ. The description of Christ serving as the mediator between heaven and earth, bridging the gap caused by sin, is a powerful metaphorical depiction of the work of redemption. This connection is restored through Christ, who links fallen humanity with the source of divine power.
Another significant point is the notion that all human efforts toward progress or moral refinement are futile without Christ. Humans can only achieve true holiness and fellowship with God through His grace. The section also demonstrates God’s love, manifested in the sacrifice of His Son. This love is stronger than death and reveals the highest price that God was willing to pay to redeem humanity.
Finally, the chapter earnestly appeals to the reader not to disregard God’s redemptive grace. It calls for the recognition of God’s patience and efforts to restore fallen humanity. The idea that stronger measures than the sacrifice of Jesus could not have been employed underscores the urgency and depth of divine love. The chapter urges believers to reciprocate this love, surrender their lives to Christ, and accept the offered fellowship with God.
Summary
Chapter 2 describes the lost state of humanity after the fall of man and its complete dependence on God’s grace for redemption. Humanity, which originally lived in holiness and fellowship with God, became estranged through sin and unable to free itself. The gap between God and man could only be bridged by Christ, the mediator, who restores the connection between heaven and earth and offers new life to humanity. The chapter emphasizes the necessity of an inner transformation through Christ’s grace and showcases the infinite love of God, revealed in the sacrifice of His Son. It calls the reader to accept this grace and fully surrender to God in order to receive the gift of redemption and return to fellowship with Him.
Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/27-01-2025-colossians-chapter-3-believe-his-prophets/
This Is How AWR Continues Jesus’ Mission Today
Uncover the significance of the Three Angels' Messages and their relevance today. What can you do to help share this vital message with the world? Share your thoughts and subscribe for more discussions on faith and global outreach. #EndTimes #FaithAndOutreach #MakeADifference #awr #adventistworldradio #short Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jllJFB-mzxQ
Comments of the Week January 20-26
Comments of the Week January 20-26 “I thought he was the second coming!” —Steve Ferguson sarcastically on SATIRE: Trump Vows to Cause Second Coming First 90 Days in Office Comments on Letting God Interpret the Bible, Legislating Certainty, The Body Temple: Sugar Time, and Aunt Sevvy Let God Interpret the Bible “When I used to say […] Source: https://atoday.org/comments-of-the-week-jan20-26/
This Is How Trisha’s Story Inspires Others to Seek Light
Trisha's journey from captivity to empowerment is a testament to the transformative power of faith. How does she navigate her struggles and find solace in the messages of AWR? Uncover this powerful story and subscribe for further exploration of hope and redemption. #OvercomingObstacles #SpiritualGrowth #FindingFreedom #awr #adventistworldradio #short Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kCf7MuAT6o
Monday: God Is Slow to Anger
Daily Lesson for Monday 27th of January 2025
God becomes angry at evil because God is love. God is so compassionate and gracious that one biblical prophet even chastised God for being too merciful!
Consider the story of Jonah and reflect on Jonah’s reaction to God’s compassionate forgiveness of the Ninevites, in Jonah 4:1-4. What does this tell us about Jonah, and about God? (See also Matthew 10:8.)
Jonah’s reaction to God’s mercy is telling in two primary ways. First, it displays Jonah’s own hardheartedness. He hated the Assyrians so much for what they had done to Israel that he did not want God to show them any mercy.
What a lesson for us! We must be careful to guard against this same attitude, however understandable it may be. Of all people, those who have received the grace of God should recognize unmerited grace and thus be willing to extend grace to others.
Secondly, Jonah’s reaction reinforces how central God’s compassion and grace are to His character. So familiar was Jonah with God’s mercy that—precisely because God is “gracious and merciful” and “slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness” (Jonah 4:2, NKJV)—Jonah knew that the Lord would relent from bringing judgment against Nineveh. God deals justly and mercifully with all peoples and nations.
The Hebrew phrase translated “slow to anger” or “longsuffering” could be literally translated “long of nose.” In Hebrew idiom, anger was metaphorically associated with the nose, and the length of nose metaphorically images how long it takes for one to become angry.
References to God as “long of nose,” then, convey that God is slow to anger and long-suffering. While it does not take long for humans to become angry, God is exceedingly long-suffering and patient, and bestows grace freely and abundantly, yet without justifying sin or turning a blind eye to injustice. Instead, God Himself makes atonement for sin and evil via the cross so that He can be both just and the justifier of those who believe in Him (Romans 3:25-26).
Have you ever failed to show mercy or grace to someone who has wronged you? How can you best remember what God has done for you so that you become more gracious to others in response to the abundant grace God has shown you? And how do we show mercy and grace without giving license to sin or enabling abuse or oppression? |

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