GOD: Merciful and Just

What does merciful mean?

What does just mean?

“The Narrative of Noah”

The God of the Bible is as severe as if he were unmerciful, and just as if he were not gracious; and yet he is as gracious and as merciful as if he were not just.

Charles Spurgeon

Bible Passage: Genesis 6, Genesis 7, Genesis 8

Summary: Genesis 6-8 recounts the account of Noah, illustrating the tension between God's mercy and justice in response to human sin. The narrative shows the impending judgment of God through the flood, juxtaposed with His grace in preserving Noah and his family.

Application: This passage helps Christians recognize that, although God judges sin, He also offers mercy and salvation. In their struggles with guilt, regret, or feelings of hopelessness, believers can find assurance that God’s mercy is available for them, just as He provided for Noah.

Teaching: The sermon teaches that God is both just and merciful; judgment against sin is real, but so is the path to redemption. It encourages believers to trust in God's character and to see their lives through the lens of His promises.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the broader context, the story of Noah points to Christ as the ultimate Noah—a savior who offers deliverance from sin and spiritual death. Just as Noah was a type who endured judgment to save others, Christ suffers for humanity to provide salvation.

Big Idea: God's judgment is certain, but His mercy abounds; we can trust Him to save us amidst our trials and tribulations.

Recommended Study: As you prepare, consider conducting an exegetical study on the Hebrew terms used for 'mercy' and 'justice' in this passage using your Logos library. Look for commentaries that delve into the cultural context of ancient Near Eastern flood narratives to draw parallels and deepen your understanding. Additionally, explore any difficult translation issues that arise in Genesis 6-8 and how they affect interpretation.

GOD: MERCIFUL AND JUST

1. Pervasive Wickedness and Partiality

Genesis 6:1-12

You could emphasize the increasing wickedness on earth and God's heartache over humanity's sin. This demonstrates God's righteousness and just nature. Yet, amidst the darkness, Noah finds favor in God's eyes, illustrating divine mercy. This serves as a reminder that, although we face God's justice, there is hope through His mercy.

2. Promise Fulfilled, Protection Granted

Genesis 7:1-24

You could focus on the fulfillment of God's judgment through the flood and His faithfulness in preserving Noah and his family. This portrays both God's justice in dealing with sin and His mercy in providing salvation. Relate this to Christ's role in sheltering us from ultimate judgment.

3. Preservation and New Beginnings

Genesis 8:1-19

Emphasize God's remembrance of Noah, symbolizing His unwavering commitment to His promises. As the waters recede, a new chapter begins. This points forward to the new creation promised in Christ, encouraging us to trust God's faithfulness even when life seems overwhelmingly chaotic.

What is our response? Promise, Worship, and Covenant

Genesis 8:20-22

Focus here on Noah's response of worship and God's covenantal promise to never again destroy the earth with a flood, underscoring grace. This can lead into the broader theme of the ultimate covenant fulfilled in Christ, encouraging us to live lives of gratitude and commitment to God's purposes.