It’s an uncomfortable topic in our modern age, much like politics at a family dinner when both ends of the spectrum sit at the table. But Paul raises the issue, and so we gain a deeper understanding about the nature of God.

Note then the kindness and the severity of God: severity toward those who have fallen, but God’s kindness to you, provided you continue in his kindness.

Our modern sensibilities bristle at the idea of God’s severity. People brandish God is love as a proof-text to live as they wish. The view of God as a wealthy, benevolent uncle predominates. We’re worthy—why wouldn’t God grant our every wish?

Indeed, God is love. However, God balances love with truth. God extends his mercy to everyone, but each one of us carries the capacity to reject that mercy. And without God’s mercy through Jesus Christ to act as a propitiation (an appeasement or satisfaction to remove the penalty of sin), then we face God’s severity uncovered and uninsured.

People reject God for many reasons. Deep down, pride (the original sin) conquers the ability to humbly bow before God. But the Lord never stops extending mercy. Paul added, for God has consigned all to disobedience, that he may have mercy on all.

I don’t pretend to know all the ways of God. I read the text and wrestle. Thankfully, Paul’s summary resonates: Oh, the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways!

While I may not understand or agree with all the Bible teaches, I cannot wish away unpalatable characteristics of God by reading with a rose-colored lens. Truly the ways of God are inscrutable. All I can do is trust in the depth of God’s wisdom, and the fairness of his judgements, as I reach out for his mercy.

Romans 11 & 1 John 4

Photo by Jacob Bentzinger