behold the Goodness and Severity of God (Romans 11:22)
Introduction:
1. This verse teaches us to behold 2 of God's characteristics: His "goodness" and His "severity." 2. It is important for us to do this because a proper understanding of God's goodness and severity will lead us to be His faithful children.
Discussion:
I. LET US FIRST BEHOLD THE SEVERITY OF GOD
A. From Romans 11:22 we learn that God demonstrated His severity toward "those who fell." 1. We read about God's dealings with the Israelites in 1 Corinthians 10:1-11. a. (vs.1-4) God blessed His people abundantly. b. (vs.5) God did not allow many of them to enter the Promised Land. c. (vs.6-11) We read about the things they did so we can avoid their mistakes. 2. A strong warning was given to the Israelites in Psalm 95:7b-11. 3. While God was severe toward the Israelites who fell, . . . B. Romans 11:22 also teaches us that God will demonstrate His severity toward "those who do not continue in His goodness." 1. The warning in Psalm 95 is included in Hebrews 3:7-12 for the benefit of Christians. 2. Falling away from the Lord is serious (Hebrews 10:26-31). 3. After touching on God's severity, . . .
II. LET US NEXT BEHOLD THE GOODNESS OF GOD
A. We learn from Romans 11:22 that God will demonstrate His goodness toward "those who continue in His goodness." B. In the Bible we read about many occasions when God demonstrated His goodness, as illustrated in Psalm 86:5. C. Passages in the Psalms provide information that will lead us to continue in God's goodness. 1. God's goodness is "great" (Psalm 31:19). 2. God's goodness is found throughout the earth (Psalm 33:5, 6-9). 3. God's goodness is dependable (Psalm 23:6). 4. God's goodness endures continually (Psalm 52:1b). 5. God's goodness is deserving of praise (Psalm 107:8, 15, 21, 31).
Conclusion:
1. As we study the Scriptures, let us consider occasions when God demonstrated His goodness and His severity. 2. Let us be motivated to always continue in His goodness.
