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Punishing Evil And Protecting The Innocent Series
Contributed by Shaila Touchton on Nov 30, 2024 (message contributor)
Summary: The Bible teaches that God is a just and righteous God who punishes evil and protects the innocent.
The Bible teaches that God is a just and righteous God who punishes evil and protects the innocent. Throughout Scripture, we see examples of God's justice in action, as He deals with individuals and nations who have rejected Him and His ways.
God's Hatred of Evil
The Bible says that God hates evil and those who practice it. In Psalm 5:5-6, David writes, "The arrogant cannot stand in your presence. You hate all who do wrong." Similarly, in Proverbs 6:16-19, we read, "There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community."
God's Punishment of Evil
The Bible teaches that God will punish evil and those who practice it. In Psalm 37:28, David writes, "For the Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. Wrongdoers will be destroyed; the offspring of the wicked will perish." Similarly, in Romans 1:18-32, Paul writes, "The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people, who suppress the truth by their wickedness...Although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened."
*God's Protection of the Innocent*
While God punishes evil, He also protects the innocent. In Psalm 121:7-8, David writes, "The Lord will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." Similarly, in Matthew 10:29-31, Jesus says, "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows."
The Bible teaches that God is a just and righteous God who punishes evil and protects the innocent. As believers, we can trust in God's justice and know that He will ultimately punish evil and reward good. Let us therefore strive to live righteous lives, seeking to honor God in all we do.