God’s Justice, Mercy, and Love: Understanding the Bible’s Hard Questions

 Title: God’s Justice, Mercy, and Love: Understanding the Bible’s Hard Questions

Introduction Have you ever wrestled with the Bible? Perhaps you’ve read passages in the Old Testament that seem harsh or confusing, like Numbers 31, and thought, “How could a loving God allow this?” You’re not alone. Many people have faced similar questions, and it’s okay to struggle with them. Let’s explore these concerns together and discover the bigger picture of God’s justice, mercy, and love.

1. Acknowledge the Challenge Some Old Testament stories are difficult to read. Numbers 31, for example, describes a time of war and judgment. These events occurred in a world vastly different from ours, where nations were often at war, and cultures were deeply broken. God was working through these situations to protect His people and fulfill a greater purpose: bringing redemption to humanity.

Consider This: If we’re troubled by justice in the Bible, it’s often because we long for fairness and mercy. This longing reflects God’s own character—He is both just and merciful. But to fully understand these stories, we must look at the Bible’s bigger picture.

2. God’s Justice and Mercy in Context God’s instructions in passages like Numbers 31 were not random or cruel. They occurred within the framework of the Law of Moses, which provided justice and accountability for Israel as God’s covenant people. After the Midianites had led Israel into idolatry and destructive behavior (see Numbers 25), God acted to protect His people from further harm and to uphold His holiness. God acted to protect His people from being led astray again. However, this does not mean God delights in judgment. Throughout the Bible, God’s mercy shines through.

  • Example of Mercy: The story of Jonah shows God sparing Nineveh, a violent nation, when they repented (Jonah 3:10). God’s ultimate desire is not destruction but restoration.

Key Point: These stories highlight the seriousness of sin and the lengths God will go to protect and redeem His people.

3. Jesus Reveals God’s True Heart When we struggle with the Old Testament, we can turn to Jesus. He is the perfect representation of God’s character (Hebrews 1:3). Jesus’ life shows us a God who is loving, forgiving, and compassionate.

  • Jesus’ Words: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

  • Jesus’ Actions: He reached out to the broken, healed the hurting, and forgave sinners.

Big Picture: The Old Testament sets the stage for Jesus, who fulfills God’s plan to rescue humanity. If we want to understand God, we must look at Jesus.

4. God’s Bigger Story The Bible tells one unified story of redemption. The Old Testament reveals God’s standard of righteousness through the Law of Moses, showing humanity’s brokenness and need for a Savior who fulfills the law perfectly in Jesus. The New Testament reveals how Jesus’ sacrifice restores our relationship with God.

Analogy: Imagine a masterpiece being painted. Up close, some strokes may seem chaotic, but when you step back, the full picture reveals breathtaking beauty. The Bible is like that—each part contributes to the ultimate masterpiece of God’s love and justice.

5. What Does This Mean for You? God’s plan isn’t just about ancient stories; it’s about you. He loves you so much that He sent Jesus to take on the justice we deserve and offer us mercy instead. Through Jesus, we see that God’s essence is relational, not institutional.

  • John 3:16: “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

No matter what hurts you’ve experienced—even in a church setting—God’s love is greater. He invites you into a personal relationship with Him.

6. Explore for Yourself If you’re curious about Jesus and God’s plan, start with the Gospel of John. Read about Jesus’ life, teachings, and love for humanity. If you’d like someone to walk with you in this journey, reach out to a trusted friend or mentor.

Closing Invitation: Are you willing to explore who Jesus is and what He means for your life? He’s waiting to meet you, just as you are.

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