Bible Readings — Bible Questions Answered

Problem of Willful Sin

God is merciful, but does He clear the guilty? BR-ASI9 256.6

“The Lord is longsuffering, and of great mercy, forgiving iniquity and transgression, and by no means clearing the guilty.” Numbers 14:18. (See Exodus 34:5-7.) BR-ASI9 256.7

What is the result of willful sin? BR-ASI9 256.8

“If we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins, but a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation, which shall devour the adversaries. He that despised Moses’ law died without mercy under two or three witnesses. Of how much sorer punishment, suppose ye, shall he be thought worthy, who hath trodden underfoot the Son of God, and hath counted the blood of the covenant, wherewith he was sanctified, an unholy thing, and hath done despite unto the Spirit of grace?” Hebrews 10:26-29. BR-ASI9 256.9

To whom has execution of judgment been committed? BR-ASI9 256.10

“Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.” Romans 12:19. BR-ASI9 256.11

“The Father hath . . . given to the Son . . . authority to execute judgment also.” John 5:26, 27. (See Jude 14, 15.) BR-ASI9 256.12

What presumptuous course do many pursue? BR-ASI9 257.1

“Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil.” Ecclesiastes 8:11. BR-ASI9 257.2

What message has God sent by His ministers? BR-ASI9 257.3

“Say ye to the righteous, that it shall be well with him: for they shall eat the fruit of their doings. Woe unto the wicked! it shall be ill with him: for the reward of his hands shall be given him.” Isaiah 3:10, 11. “We are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us.” 2 Corinthians 5:20. (See 2 Timothy 2:24-26.) BR-ASI9 257.4

How can man escape the penalty of sin? BR-ASI9 258.1

“The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23. BR-ASI9 258.2

Note.—“God threatens to punish all who transgress these commandments: we should, therefore, fear His anger, and do nothing against such commandments. But He promises grace and every blessing to all who keep them: we should, therefore, love and trust in Him, and gladly obey His commandments.”—Luther’s Small Catechism in Philip Schaff, The Creeds of Christendom (Scribner’s), vol. 3, p. 77. BR-ASI9 258.3