God’s justice and mercy is seen throughout the Bible. In the story of Noah and the Flood, both attributes are clearly seen. God’s justice was seen in the death of those who rejected the Lordship of God. At the same time, God’s mercy was seen in the rescue of Noah, his family and many animals. The two themes of justice and mercy are seen throughout the rest of the Bible as God brings punishment, yet still remembers mercy. Believers hope in this mercy as we look forward to God judging all mankind on the last day. On that day we are told there will be much justice – that is, many will be condemned to eternal destruction. Yet, for those found in Christ, there will be much mercy on that day – and an eternal inheritance of joy. To listen to this sermon, please click on the following link: Genesis 6-9.
Abel was killed by his brother. Now the only son of Adam left is Cain. Could it really be that the One who would crush the serpent’s head (promised in Genesis 3:15) be from the seed of Cain? The history of Cain’s descendents paints a bleak picture. Yet, God is faithful to provide another seed: Seth. But what about Abel? His blood was lying on the ground crying out to the Lord. The cry was one of vengeance, wrath , guilt and death. Is this all that is left for mankind: alone suffering the just punishment for sin? The Good News is that there is blood that speaks a better word than that of Abel: the blood of Jesus Christ (Hebrews 12:24). Where Abel’s blood cried for vengeance, the blood of Jesus cries for the removal of vengeance and the exercise of mercy. To listen to this sermon, please click on the following link: Genesis 4.
The sin in the garden was about much more than eating fruit that should have been left alone. The sin was committed because man began to question if living under the rule of God was really the best way to live. Once man questioned if God’s way was best, then determined that it was not best, all that was left to do was make his own rule: God says I cannot eat this fruit, but I say I can eat this fruit. Each day we sin in nearly the same way. We question if it really is better to live by God’s rules, then determine that it is better for us to do something other than submit to God, and we thereby sin. The consequences of sin are real and severe. Yet, even in wrath God remembers mercy. This mercy is most clearly seen in the last Adam, Jesus Christ. Just as in Adam we sinned and deserve condemnation, in Christ we are righteous and justified and have peace with God. To listen to this sermon, please click on the following link: Genesis 3.