Introduction: God’s Justice and Love
The study of God’s justice and love reveals the harmony of His character, where mercy and truth meet, and righteousness and peace embrace (Psalm 85:10). As expressed in the Spirit of Prophecy, “Justice is the foundation of His throne and the fruit of His love” (The Desire of Ages, p. 762). God’s love is not arbitrary or fleeting; it is eternal, unchanging, and freely given to all humanity. His justice safeguards the principles of His government while ensuring the salvation of those who respond to His covenant of love.
The Shepherd's Rod writings illuminate the divine interplay of love and justice as the essence of God’s dealings with humanity. In The Answerer, it is written, “God’s justice is not only a law of His government but a safeguard of His love. Justice calls for holiness, and holiness calls for love” (The Answerer, Vol. 4, p. 36). This profound balance is most vividly portrayed in Christ’s life, death, and resurrection, where the justice of the law was satisfied, and the love of God was magnified.
Through this quarterly study, we will explore key themes that reveal how God’s justice and love operate together in perfect unity, from His covenant relationship with humanity to the resolution of the cosmic conflict. Each lesson delves into aspects of His character:
God Loves Freely – The foundation of His relationship with humanity (Hosea 14:4; Steps to Christ, p. 10).
Covenant Love – The binding power of His promises (Deuteronomy 7:9; Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 370).
To Be Pleasing to God – Our response of faith and obedience (Micah 6:8; Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 404).
God is Passionate and Compassionate – His deep, unfailing love (Exodus 34:6-7; Prophets and Kings, p. 311).
The Wrath of Divine Love – Justice as a manifestation of love (Isaiah 28:21; The Great Controversy, p. 627).
God's Love of Justice – His commitment to righteousness (Isaiah 61:8; Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 690).
The Problem of Evil – Understanding the great controversy (Genesis 3; The Great Controversy, p. 589).
Free Will, Love, and Divine Providence – The gift of choice in God’s plan (Deuteronomy 30:19; The Acts of the Apostles, p. 49).
The Cosmic Conflict – God’s justice vindicated (Revelation 12:7-12; The Desire of Ages, p. 758).
Rules of Engagement – The principles of His government (Isaiah 55:8-9; Education, p. 173).
What More Could I Have Done? – God’s relentless pursuit of humanity (Isaiah 5:4; Prophets and Kings, p. 319).
Love and Justice: The Two Greatest Commandments – The heart of His law (Matthew 22:36-40; Steps to Christ, p. 21).
Love is the Fulfillment of the Law – The ultimate expression of His character (Romans 13:10; The Desire of Ages, p. 805).
As we journey through these lessons, may the insights from the Spirit of Prophecy and Shepherd’s Rod deepen our understanding of God’s character and inspire us to reflect His love and justice in our lives. Let us embrace the call to be witnesses of His truth in the ongoing cosmic conflict, for in Him, justice and love unite to bring eternal life and peace to all who believe.