An Avenging God - Part 2

An Avenging God - Part 2

Deuteronomy 32:35, Romans 12:9; Joel 3:4-5; Isaiah 1:24; Amos 9:-13

Introduction:

Context: The sermon continues from the previous week, addressing the topic of vengeance, especially how the Bible approaches vengeance, and how we, as believers, are to understand and respond to it.

Last week, I laid out four points concerning the revelation of God's vengeance:

1. God's vengeance is a guard and protection for those He loves.
2. God's vengeance is personal—He is not indifferent or emotionless.
3. God's vengeance is for His adversaries.
4. God's vengeance is glorious and worthy of praise.

Key Question: How are we to respond to vengeance? Is it something we should desire or practice ourselves, or leave for God?

Main Points on Vengeance:

God's Vengeance Guards and Protects:

God's vengeance is a way of defending those He loves and His holiness. Example of God's wrath as an act of love and protection.

Vengeance Is Personal for God:

God is affected by sin; He is not indifferent or emotionless. He is personally offended by sin and transgression.

Vengeance Targets God’s Enemies:

Man initiated rebellion against God, and vengeance is directed at adversaries. Humans and angels were the first to turn against God.

God's Vengeance Is Glorious:

The vengeance of God is worthy of praise and reveals His glory. 

Vengeance Is Reciprocal:

God's vengeance involves paying back what is owed. There is a debt created by sin, and God repays in kind.

Vengeance Brings Relief:

Vengeance brings relief to both God and His people. It provides a sense of justice and closure. God’s vengeance is a form of relief for those who suffer under injustice and oppression.

God's Vengeance Is Certain:

The vengeance of God is sure and will be fulfilled. He promises to repay, and His omnipotence ensures it will happen.

God's Vengeance Is Revelatory:

God's vengeance reveals His character, justice, and holiness to the world. Through acts of vengeance, God makes Himself known to His creation.

Practical Application: As Christians, we are not to take vengeance into our own hands but leave it to God. Vengeance is a divine prerogative.

Reflection on Christ: The work of Christ on the cross satisfies the wrath and vengeance of God, reconciling sinners to Himself.