REVIEW: God’s judgment is expected.
- READ: John 3:17-18 “God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. “There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God’s one and only Son. And the judgment is based on this fact: God’s light came into the world, but people loved the darkness more than the light, for their actions were evil.”
- DISCUSS: How have you seen God’s mercy shown in your life?
REVIEW: God’s judgment is a last resort.
- READ: 2 Peter 3:9 “The Lord isn’t really being slow about his promise, as some people think. No, he is being patient for your sake. He does not want anyone to be destroyed, but wants everyone to repent.”
- DISCUSS: How can sharing our experiences with God invite people into His light? Who do you know that might benefit from hearing how God’s mercy has changed you?
REVIEW: God’s judgment is just.
- READ: Jude 1:20-23 “But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God’s love. And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives.”
- DISCUSS: What issues in today’s world cause you to feel righteous anger or sorrow? How does God’s promise of justice bring you comfort?
REVIEW: God’s judgment is redemptive.
- READ: Romans 8:28 “And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.”
- DISCUSS: How can God’s promise of justice and rescue comfort us in the face of pain and suffering?
ASK:
What else did you get from this week's sermon? What actions or next steps can you take to apply it to your life?
PRAY:
For hope in God’s promise of justice, patience in God’s work of redemption, and courage to invite others into His love.