Does forgiveness remove consequences?
Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation - Lesson 5, Forgive as God Forgave You, Question 14, p. 75
Consequences can serve as an example or warning to others, illustrating the significance of God's law and the repercussions of disobedience.
The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, addresses the detrimental effects of sin within a community. He writes in 1 Corinthians 5:6-7), "Your boasting is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? Cleanse out the old leaven that you may be a new lump, as you really are unleavened. For Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed." Here, Paul emphasizes the importance of purging sin to maintain purity within the church. The metaphor of leaven illustrates how sin, if left unchecked, can permeate and corrupt the entire community. Therefore, consequences for sinful actions are necessary to uphold the sanctity and integrity of the body of believers.
Similarly, in Acts 5:5, the swift and severe consequence faced by Ananias upon lying to the Holy Spirit serves as a stark warning: "When Ananias heard these words, he fell down and breathed his last. And great fear came upon all who heard of it." This event demonstrates how the immediate judgment of Ananias' deceit instilled a profound sense of reverence and fear of God among the early Christians. The consequence was a powerful deterrent against dishonesty and a compelling reminder of God's omniscience and holiness.
While consequences are vital in establishing order, mercy is the cornerstone of God's relationship with humanity. Romans 3:21-22 provides a message of comfort and hope: "But now the righteousness of God has been manifested apart from the law, although the Law and the Prophets bear witness to it—the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all who believe. For there is no distinction." These verses assure us that despite our shortcomings, we are justified by faith through Jesus Christ. God's mercy transcends human failings, offering redemption and eternal life to all who believe.
The balance between mercy and consequences lies in their mutual role of guiding believers towards righteousness. Consequences serve as deterrents and reminders of God's justice, while mercy offers the assurance of forgiveness and love through faith in Jesus Christ.
This blog series is adapted from Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation. You can experience this teaching in several ways:
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