DEAR REV. GRAHAM: One of my uncles says God is like a stern judge, just waiting to punish us when we do wrong. But another uncle says he's wrong, because God is like a kindly father who loves us and forgives us, no matter what we do. Who is right?
-- L.W.
DEAR L.W.: My answer may confuse you at first, but both of your uncles are right, and both are also wrong. Let me explain.
On one hand, the Bible tells us that God is absolutely holy and pure, and when we rebel against Him by doing wrong, we deserve only His judgment. And sometimes His judgment comes almost immediately (at least in part). If, for example, I hate others, I will pay a price for my sin. Sin always has consequences -- always.
But God also loves us and is merciful toward us. If He weren't, we'd have no hope for His forgiveness. But we do have hope, and the reason is because God has provided the way for us to be saved from His judgment. That way is Jesus Christ, who came down from Heaven and took upon Himself the judgment we deserve. We deserve God's judgment for our sins, but by His death on the cross Christ took upon Himself the judgment we deserve. He died in our place.
In other words, God is our stern Judge and our loving Father. God doesn't take our sins lightly, and neither should we. Nor should we take God's love lightly either. Thank God for His love for you, and respond to His love by turning to Jesus Christ and trusting Him alone for your salvation. The Bible says, "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God. And that is what we are!" (1 John 3:1).
Write to Billy Graham in care of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C. 28201 or visit the website at
billygraham.org
Food on 06/21/2017