5.4 God Does Not Afflict Willingly
His Wrath Serves Justice, Not Punishment

Read Ezra 5:12 and compare the verse with Jeremiah 51:24–25, 44. What does this explain about the judgment that came upon Jerusalem through the Babylonians? (See also 2 Chronicles 36:16)

The verses in Ezra 5:12 and Jeremiah 51:24–25, 44 demonstrate the complex relationship between God’s judgment, human rebellion, and His aim to establish justice and redemption. They emphasize that God’s judgment is never arbitrary or cruel but rather a consequence of the people’s persistent refusal to be led by Him.

1. God’s Actions as a Consequence of Human Decisions

God “gave” His people into the hands of Nebuchadnezzar (Ezra 5:12), but only after the people repeatedly rejected His grace. In 2 Chronicles 36:16, we read that God continuously sent prophets to call for repentance. However, the people mocked them until “no healing was left.” Thus, God’s judgment on Israel was not an expression of arbitrariness but the logical outcome of their own decisions to turn away from Him and instead serve other gods (Deuteronomy 29:24–26).

2. God’s Justice and Standards

Even in His judgment, God remains just. In Jeremiah 51, it becomes clear that God later held Babylon accountable for its excessive cruelty towards Judah. Although Babylon was an instrument of judgment, God condemned the Babylonians for executing this judgment with undue harshness (Jeremiah 51:24–25). This shows that God’s justice is universal: He judges not only His own people but also the nations that act wickedly.

3. Judgment as an Expression of Love and Redemption

God’s anger and judgment always have a purpose: the eradication of evil and the restoration of His plan for creation. He does not act out of a desire to punish but to restore justice and peace. His anger is directed against sin because it destroys what He loves—people and His creation.

This principle is reflected in the ultimate eradication of evil described in the Bible. God’s anger is part of His plan to create a universe where justice, love, and peace prevail—a universe without suffering, oppression, and sin.

4. Lessons for Our Daily Lives

5. Awareness of God’s Warnings: The history of Israel reminds us not to ignore God’s call to repentance. His patience has limits, not out of hardness of heart, but because He does not want to leave us in a state of rebellion that leads to our destruction.

6. Trust in God’s Justice: Even when we experience injustice, we can trust that God will ultimately judge all evil and save His people. His judgment is never blind or cruel but always just and loving.

7. Recognizing Evil Consequences: God “gives us into the hands” of our own decisions when we persistently reject Him. These consequences are not His arbitrariness but the natural result of our choice to turn away from Him.

Summary

God’s judgment is not an act of arbitrary punishment but a consequence of human decisions to turn away from Him. His goal is always restoration and the welfare of His creation. This teaching calls us to heed His warnings, place our trust in His justice, and ensure that we do not distance ourselves from Him. God does not oppress anyone intentionally, but He respects human decisions and acts accordingly, always aiming to restore love and justice.

How does the fact that God does not want to condemn anyone affect your understanding of God’s wrath and anger? If God is slow to anger, should we not be more patient and long-suffering with our fellow humans? How can we do this while still protecting and caring for victims of injustice?

The fact that God does not want to condemn anyone but is patient and slow to anger profoundly changes our understanding of His wrath and anger. It shows that God’s anger is never arbitrary or destructive but always within the context of His love and desire for restoration and redemption. This realization also presents a clear challenge to us: we should reflect God’s patience and long-suffering in our dealings with others without ignoring the necessity to address injustice and protect victims.

God’s Anger as an Expression of His Patience and Love

1. No Arbitrary Anger: God’s anger is not directed against people but against the evil that destroys His beloved creation. His goal is not punishment but healing and restoration.

2. Long-suffering and Patience: God gives people time to repent. He does not act impulsively but follows a plan that combines justice and mercy. His anger is always just, motivated by love and the desire to overcome evil.

Our Responsibility: Patience and Long-suffering in Dealing with Others

Understanding God’s patience should lead us to apply this attitude in our own lives. This means:

1. Being Patient with Others’ Weaknesses: If God is so patient with us, we should be willing to give others room to change and not judge them hastily.

2. Addressing Injustice with Love: Patience does not mean tolerating injustice. Like God, we can clearly identify injustice but do so with a loving attitude aimed at healing rather than retaliation.

How Can We Practice Patience and Still Protect Victims?

1. Prioritizing Victims of Injustice: Patience with offenders must never come at the expense of those who are harmed. Just as Jesus advocated for the weak and oppressed, we are called to protect victims and provide them with care and justice.

   • Practical: Listen, offer support, actively work to ensure safety and healing.

2. Confronting Injustice with Wisdom: God’s anger is always against evil, not against people themselves. In this spirit, we can hold people who commit injustice accountable in love without condemning or rejecting them.

   • Practical: For example, through clear, respectful confrontation and prayer for their repentance.

3. Praying for Wisdom and Strength: We need God’s guidance to remain patient in difficult situations while acting justly. James 1:5 reminds us that God gives wisdom when we ask for it.

4. Seeking Community and Support: Long-suffering in dealing with difficult people or situations sometimes requires help. Fellowship with other believers can encourage us and provide practical support.

The Balance: Grace and Justice

God’s character shows us how grace and justice can work together:

• Patience: We give people time to change, as God does.

• Protection: We ensure that the weak are not harmed while we act patiently.

• Love: Our goal is not retaliation but restoration, in line with God’s plan for His creation.

Summary

God’s patience, long-suffering, and justice are not only attributes of His nature but also guiding principles for our lives. They teach us to exercise patience and grace, address injustice with wisdom, and actively advocate for the weak. Through our actions, we can reflect God’s character and be examples of love, justice, and healing in both our daily lives and our faith. God’s patience teaches us that true strength lies in showing grace without forsaking justice—and always keeping the well-being of others in mind.

The teachings from “5.4 God Does Not Oppress Intentionally” provide clear guidance on how we can reflect God’s patience and justice in our daily lives and faith. They invite us to understand and imitate God’s character by practicing patience, addressing injustice, and advocating for healing and justice. These principles are essential both for our faith and our interactions with others.

1. Patience and Long-suffering in Dealing with Weaknesses

• In Our Daily Lives: We all encounter people who make mistakes, test our patience, or hurt us. God’s long-suffering teaches us not to judge hastily but to allow room for change.

  • Practical Application: When someone errs, instead of reacting impulsively, adopt an attitude of forgiveness and give them the opportunity to improve. A simple, loving conversation can often create healing and understanding.

• In Faith: Patience with others reflects God’s patience with us. By showing grace to others, we remember the grace God has bestowed upon us.

2. Responsibility for Victims of Injustice

• In Our Daily Lives: It is our duty to protect those who become victims of injustice or abuse. Patience with offenders must not come at the expense of the victims.

  • Practical Application: For example, in difficult situations—whether in the family, workplace, or community—set clear boundaries and ensure that the vulnerable are protected and heard.

• In Faith: God calls us to “be a voice for the voiceless” (Proverbs 31:8). This means actively standing up for justice and showing compassion as Jesus did.

3. Confronting Injustice with Wisdom and Love

• In Our Daily Lives: God’s anger is never impulsive or destructive but purposeful and love-driven. When confronted with injustice, we should act with a similar attitude.

  • Practical Application: Instead of reacting with anger or frustration, calmly and respectfully address wrongs. Keep our goal in mind: restoration and healing, not retaliation.

• In Faith: In prayer, we can seek wisdom on how to handle difficult situations without compromising our love and faith.

4. Grace and Justice in Harmony

• In Our Daily Lives: Grace and justice may sometimes seem contradictory. However, as God teaches us, we can combine both by considering the well-being of all involved.

  • Practical Application: When someone does wrong, we can show grace by giving them a chance to change while simultaneously practicing justice by addressing the consequences of their actions.

• In Faith: The cross is the ultimate example of the union of grace and justice. It teaches us how to implement these principles in our own lives.

5. Trusting in God’s Justice

• In Our Daily Lives: We often witness injustices that frustrate us and make us feel powerless. However, we can trust that God will ultimately judge all evil.

  • Practical Application: This trust can bring us peace when facing difficult situations and motivate us to continue trusting in God’s ways.

• In Faith: Romans 12:19 reminds us, “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.” This allows us to let go and leave the final judgment to God.

Final Summary

God’s patience, long-suffering, and justice are not only attributes of His nature but also guiding principles for our lives. They teach us to practice patience and grace, address injustice with wisdom, and actively advocate for the vulnerable. Through our actions, we can reflect God’s character and serve as examples of love, justice, and healing in both our daily lives and our faith.

God’s patience teaches us that true strength lies in showing grace without abandoning justice—and always keeping the well-being of others in focus.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-5-the-wrath-of-divine-love-5-4-god-does-not-afflict-willingly-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

January 29, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Thessalonians Chapter 1

¹ Paul, and Silvanus, and Timotheus, unto the church of the Thessalonians which is in God the Father and in the Lord Jesus Christ: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and the Lord Jesus Christ.

² We give thanks to God always for you all, making mention of you in our prayers;

³ Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labour of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father;

⁴ Knowing, brethren beloved, your election of God.

⁵ For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake.

⁶ And ye became followers of us, and of the Lord, having received the word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost.

⁷ So that ye were ensamples to all that believe in Macedonia and Achaia.

⁸ For from you sounded out the word of the Lord not only in Macedonia and Achaia, but also in every place your faith to God-ward is spread abroad; so that we need not to speak any thing.

⁹ For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God;

¹⁰ And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.

King James Version. Public Domain

Commentary

Introduction

The first chapter of the First Epistle to the Thessalonians is a heartfelt and encouraging thanksgiving from Paul, Silvanus, and Timothy to the Thessalonian church. The letter begins with an expression of praise and gratitude for the exemplary faith of the Thessalonians and highlights how this faith remained alive in difficult times and became a witness to Christ’s love and power even amidst persecution. Paul acknowledges the impact of their faith not only on their local community but also on the entire region and beyond. This chapter provides valuable insight into early Christianity and the essential characteristics of a vibrant faith based on hope, love, and patience.

Commentary

In 1 Thessalonians 1:1–10, Paul presents the Thessalonians as an outstanding example of Christian faith. The letter begins with a blessing that requests grace and peace from God the Father and Jesus Christ for the congregation. In verses 2 to 3, Paul expresses his gratitude for the Thessalonians and specifically highlights their “work of faith,” their “labor of love,” and their “steadfastness of hope.” These three virtues form the backbone of Christian life and are also the foundation for their joy and perseverance in faith.

The Thessalonians were a church that not only heard the Gospel but actively implemented it in their lives. In verse 5, Paul describes how the Gospel worked not only through their words but also through the “power of the Spirit and the love of Christ.” This means that the faith of the Thessalonians was not based on human persuasion but on the supernatural power of God, which transformed their hearts and lives.

Verses 6 and 7 describe how the Thessalonians themselves became “followers of the Lord” and, through their steadfast stance amidst “afflictions,” became a model for believers throughout Macedonia and Achaia. Their faith spread rapidly and became well known far beyond their own region, as emphasized in verse 8. This far-reaching impact of their faith speaks of a lively and dynamic community that spread the Gospel with joy and determination.

In verse 9, their faith journey is summarized: they had turned away from idols and turned to the living God, waiting for the Son of God who would rescue them from the “coming wrath.” This not only shows their repentance and conversion but also their clear expectation of Christ’s return and the hope of redemption and salvation.

Summary

1 Thessalonians 1 is a letter of thanksgiving in which Paul praises the Thessalonians for their exemplary faith and endurance in difficult times. Their “labor of love” and “steadfastness of hope” have made them an example to other believers in the region. Their faith was not just lip service but became visible in their lives through the power of the Holy Spirit. They turned away from idols and turned to the living God, with a clear expectation of the return of Jesus, who will rescue them from the future wrath. The letter demonstrates how a vibrant and authentic Christian community, living in faith, love, and hope, can spread the Gospel far beyond their own boundaries.

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/29-01-2025-1-thessalonians-chapter-1-believe-his-prophets/