Justice AND Mercy

AND

Scott StephanApril 30, 2023

Previous Page

Passage: Micah 6:8

Justice and Mercy

April 29, 2023

Summary: 

  • God requires us to act justly and love mercy. Justice and mercy are not opposed, but rather go hand-in-hand.
  • Justice flows from God's righteous character. As the righteous judge, God's judgments are always right.
  • Mercy is an attribute of God's character. It involves compassion in action, not just distant pity.
  • Though God takes no pleasure in punishment, mercy cannot violate justice.
  • In the Garden of Eden, God showed both justice (punishment for sin) and mercy (clothing Adam and Eve, delaying death, promising a Savior).
  • If God were only just and not merciful, we would be without hope due to our sin.
  • If God were only merciful and not just, the world would be chaotic. Both attributes are essential.
  • Our hope is not that God will dismiss our sin like an lenient judge. Our hope is that in Christ, God has satisfied justice so that mercy may be shown.

Discussion Questions:

  1. How do you see justice and mercy reflected in God's character? Can you think of biblical examples?
  2. Why are both justice and mercy essential attributes of God? What problems may arise if either is missing?
  3. Do you ever find yourself viewing God's justice and mercy in tension? How does this sermon challenge or affirm your understanding?
  4. How does Christ's sacrifice demonstrate both God's justice and mercy? What implications does this have for us?
  5. In what ways do you need to grow in either pursuing justice or showing mercy? What practical steps can you take?
  6. How might remembering that God is both just and merciful impact how you make decisions or interact with others?
Message Notes

You can add you own personal sermon notes along the way. When you’re finished, you’ll be able to email or download your notes.

Email
 
Download as PDFClear Notes

Sermons in AND