Some beliefs sound great until we examine them carefully (Colossians 2:8).
Here's one example: "Sin is its own punishment." This belief has grown in popularity because people are no longer comfortable with a God who punishes sinners.(1)
But it takes very little thought to realize this belief is faulty.
There are innocent victims who suffer lifelong consequences while their psychopathic abusers live comfortable lives without remorse. Innocent people sometimes go to prison, and guilty people sometimes go free. Some people suffer from guilt, some don't.
If sin were its own punishment, parents wouldn't need to punish their children and prisons wouldn't be necessary.
As Christians we escape the eternal consequences of our sins through our faith in Christ. We may suffer earthly consequences, but sin doesn't punish us as we deserve.
Unbelievers may or may not suffer earthly consequences for their sins, but they will surely be punished by God if they don't repent and turn to Jesus (Romans 2:6; 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10).
We reap what we sow (Galatians 6:7), but total justice isn't an earthly promise (Matthew 16:27; 1 Timothy 5:24-25).
We shouldn't downplay God's right to punish the unrepentant any more than we should downplay His choice to forgive the repentant.
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(1) The incredibly popular book, The Shack, shares a twisted gospel message composed of popular errors like this one. To read more: 5 Lies About God's Character Promoted in The Shack.
Modern culture is attempting to strip God of His just wrath, and part of the problem comes from thinking of God as a man. Men are not able to mete out perfect justice, but our all-knowing God is able. See Are you Ashamed of God's Wrath?
Bible Love Notes
Well put!!! Say, may I offer a suggestion? Some websites or blogs have the option that when you put your mouse over the highlighted scripture, it pops up a small box with the verse, instead of deviating away from the page. Love, love, love your stuff! I love forwarding it to my facebook friends. Do you mind if I quote you in a quote box on facebook?
ReplyDeleteI like that option for highlighting Scriptures as well, but unfortunately, it's not available on blogspot.
DeleteFeel free to quote me on Facebook.
I also hope that you know about the Bible Love Notes Facebook page where you can find links to devotions as well as inspiring Scripture images.
God bless you.
We can say, that for Christians sin has its own punishment. Because we always can feel terrible bitterness of sin, and we understand that our sins again and again hurting the Love of God, offend Holy Spirit, and again crucify Jesus. So, for truly and sincere believer, sin already has its own punishment.
ReplyDelete