On occasion, I have heard people say they quit going to church because the people there are so judgmental. For example, if a Southern Baptist tells a potential convert that they are a terrible sinner and they are going to Hell if they do not repent, the newcomer hears exclusively about God’s judgment and not about God’s grace and love.
The Christian needs to embrace, not only God’s holiness and justice, but also the other side of His character – God’s grace and love.
In John 3:17, Jesus said, “God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world,” and in Matthew 7:1, Jesus said, “Do not judge or you, too, will be judged.” The prophet wanted Nineveh to be destroyed, not shown God’s mercy.
Grace is the unmerited love and favor of God toward mankind. It cannot be earned through human effort. Second, grace is the divine influence acting in a person that changes them over their lifetime, and it is characterized by a heart changed through God’s mercy.
Grace is also help given to a person when they are dealing with a challenging situation. Jacob’s son Joseph received it for the challenge of becoming a slave, and David received it to deal with Saul’s rage, as well as the showdown with Goliath.
May we be a church that embodies God’s grace and love.
Grace and peace,
Bob Sidlinger