By Doug Reynolds, June 11, 2017
This is the first of two studies designed to guide us to a more mature understanding of God’s nature. When I post studies, it is a challenge to capture the spirit of the study as it is delivered in a class setting. When presented in a bible study class, I ask questions to spur interaction between class members. That interaction brings the lesson to life. If you don’t regularly attend a Sunday School class, or other bible study group, you are missing a true blessing and opportunity to gain support from, and provide support to, other Christians.
If you have read my previous posts, you will notice these two lessons are different. This first study will provide scriptural passages for your review. It will also present questions for your consideration and response, much as I try to solicit in class. I ask that you read the passages, pray that God would give you understanding, and answer the questions. I will then discuss the answers to those questions in the next post.
Now that I’ve set up how we wlll approach the study, let’s get started. We will try to answer a question many often ask. How can God be a God of love and a God of judgment at the same time? Why can’t we just pick the one we like best (love or judgment), and lead a mature Christian life?
Complete this sentence: God is _____________.
Generally, how would you describe God’s nature as He reveals Himself in the Old Testament?
Generally, how would you describe God’s nature as He reveals Himself in the New Testament?
What do we know about God?
God is holy and just: Habakkuk 1:13, Isaiah 6:3, Matthew 10:28, Ecclesiastes 12:13, Hebrews 10:31
God is loving and merciful: I John 4:8, Psalms 103:8, Exodus 20:6, John 3:16, Ephesians 2:13
After reading these passages, would you want to change your answers to the questions about God’s nature in the Old and New Testaments?
What do we know about God’s will?
God’s will is both perfect and permissive. How can that be? How do you know if you are in God’s perfect will or not? How can you know if you are in God’s permissive will?
Can you define God’s perfect will? Can you give an example? II Peter 3:9
Can you define God’s permissive will? Can you give an example? Genesis 16:1-4
Why is it necessary to understand God’s will to understand God’s character?
We will conclude with this example: Revelation 20:11-15. The New Testament is known for God’s love through the provision and sacrifice of His Son, Jesus Christ. What does this passage from Revelation tell us about God’s nature?
As we read earlier in Matthew 10:28, what do you think it means to “fear” God?
Please look for my next post soon for answers to these questions, and make sure you’ve prepared your answers as well.