Sabbath School - Meat In Due Season Advanced Commentary - Tagalog SS25-Q1-L6: Ang Pag-ibig ng Diyos sa Katarungan

Sabbath School - Meat In Due Season Advanced Commentary

SS25-Q1-L6-Ang Pag-ibig ng Diyos sa Katarungan

February 1-7, 2025

Sabado ng Hapon–Pebrero 1, 2025

Mga Kasulatang Babasahin sa Linggong Ito:

Ps. 33:5, Ps. 85:10, Deut. 32:4, James 1:17, Titus 1:2, Exod. 32:14, Matt. 5:43-48

Isang Kaisipan para sa Pagbubulay-bulay

May mga magtatanong tungkol sa pag-ibig at katarungan ng Diyos sa Kanyang pagpaparusa nang napakahigpit dahil lamang sa mga salitang binitawan sa bugso ng damdamin. Ngunit kapwa pag-ibig at katarungan ang humihiling na maipakita na ang mga salitang nagmumula sa masamang hangarin laban sa Diyos ay isang malaking kasalanan. Ang hatol na ipinaranas sa unang nagkasala ay isang babala sa iba, na ang pangalan ng Diyos ay dapat igalang. Kung hinayaan lamang ang kasalanan ng taong ito nang walang kaparusahan, ang iba ay madadala rin sa kasamaan; at ang magiging bunga nito ay marami pang buhay ang malalagay sa kapahamakan.— Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 408.2

Talatang Arawan (Memory Verse)

"Kundi ang nagmamapuri ay magmapuri sa ganito, na kanyang nauunawaan at nakikilala ako, na ako ang Panginoon na nagpapakita ng kagandahang-loob, kahatulan, at katuwiran sa lupa: sapagkat sa mga bagay na ito ay nalulugod ako, sabi ng Panginoon."
— Jeremias 9:24

Pangkalahatang Pagsusuri ng Aralin

Ang aralin sa Sabbath School ngayong linggo ay naglalayong palalimin ang ating pagkaunawa sa likas ng Diyos at kung paano ang Kanyang pag-ibig, katarungan, katuwiran, at hindi nagbabagong kalikasan ay nahahayag sa Kanyang pakikitungo sa sanlibutan. Mahalagang maunawaan na ang mga katangiang ito ay hindi magkakasalungat kundi perpektong nagkakaisa sa pagsasalamin ng Kanyang banal na karakter at ng Kanyang pangunahing layunin para sa sangkatauhan—ang kaligtasan.

Bilang mga mananampalataya, ang masusing pagkaunawa sa mga katangiang ito ay:
✔ Nagpapalakas ng ating relasyon sa Diyos
✔ Nagpapalalim ng ating personal na kabanalan
✔ Nagtuturo sa atin ng mahabaging pananaw sa mundo

Tema ng Aralin

Ang pangunahing tema ng linggong ito ay ang pagkilala at karanasan sa katangian ng Diyos, partikular ang:

Pag-ibig ng Diyos (God’s Love)
Katarungan ng Diyos (God’s Justice)
Kabutihan ng Diyos (God’s Goodness)
Di-nagbabagong Diyos (God’s Changelessness)

Ang mga paksang ito ay hindi lamang matatagpuan sa Bibliya kundi matibay ring sinusuportahan ng mga sinulat sa Spirit of Prophecy (SOP) at Shepherd’s Rod (SRod). Ang mga literaturang ito ay nagbibigay ng mas malalim na pananaw tungkol sa karakter ng Diyos at sa Kanyang pakikitungo sa Kanyang bayan.

Sa ating pag-aaral ngayong linggo, nawa'y higit nating maunawaan at madama ang pag-ibig ng Diyos habang sinisikap nating mamuhay ayon sa Kanyang katuwiran at kalooban.

Balangkas ng Pag-aaral

Pag-ibig at Katarungan ay Magkasama

Linggo – Pebrero 2, 2025

Pag-ibig at Katarungan – Isang Hindi Maaaring Paghiwalayin na Tandem
📖 Awit 33:5, Isaias 61:8, Jeremias 9:24, Awit 85:10, Awit 89:14, Mikas 6:8

Ang pag-ibig at katarungan ng Diyos ay hindi magkasalungat, kundi magkasama itong gumagana sa perpektong pagkakaisa.
Ang pag-ibig na walang katarungan ay nagiging walang batas; ang katarungan na walang pag-ibig ay nagiging kalupitan.
Paano ipinapakita ng katarungan ng Diyos ang Kanyang pag-ibig para sa sangkatauhan?

Lunes – Pebrero 3, 2025

Ang Diyos ay Lubos na Mabuti at Matuwid – Lahat ng Pag-ibig, Lahat ng Katarungan
📖 Deuteronomio 32:4, Awit 92:15, Awit 25:8, Awit 129:4, Sofonias 3:5, Awit 9:7-8, Awit 145:9-17, Awit 7:11, Santiago 1:13, Habakuk 1:13, Exodo 33:18-19

Ang karakter ng Diyos ang pundasyon ng ganap na katuwiran at kabutihan.
Ang Kanyang pag-ibig at katarungan ay nagbibigay ng katarungan at proteksyon sa mga matuwid.
Ano ang ibig sabihin ng "matuwid ang Diyos sa lahat ng Kanyang mga gawa"?

Ang Pag-ibig ng Katarungan ay Nangangailangan ng Pagpapatuloy

Martes – Pebrero 4, 2025

Ang Hindi Nagbabagong Katangian ng Diyos – Ang Hindi Nagbabagong Katangian ng Diyos
📖 Malaki 3:6, Santiago 1:17, Malaki 3:7, 2 Timoteo 2:13, Tito 1:2, Hebreo 6:17-18, Hebreo 13:8

Ang Diyos ay hindi nagbabago, kumpara sa mga tao, kaya’t ang Kanyang katarungan at pag-ibig ay laging pareho.
Ang Kanyang hindi nagbabagong kalikasan ay nagbigay ng katiyakan at pag-asa sa mga mananampalataya.
Paano nakakaapekto ang hindi nagbabagong kalikasan ng Diyos sa Kanyang mga pangako at paghatol?

Miyerkules – Pebrero 5, 2025

Isang Diyos na Nagsisisi? Ang Pagiging Perpekto ng Banal na Pag-ibig at Katarungan
📖 Exodo 32:14, Jeremias 18:4-10, Mga Bilang 23:19, 1 Samuel 15:29

Ang Diyos ba ay nagbabago ng Kanyang isip? Ang pag-unawa sa kung paano tumutugon ang banal na katarungan sa mga desisyon ng tao.
Ang "pagsisisi" ng Diyos ay hindi pagkakapaltan kundi isang pagpapakita ng Kanyang pakikisalamuha sa sangkatauhan.
Paano ipinapakita ng tugon ng Diyos sa pagsisisi ang Kanyang katarungan at awa?

Ang Pag-ibig ng Katarungan at Pagsisisi

Hwebes – Pebrero 6, 2025

Manatili sa Pag-ibig at Katarungan – Pagsisisi ng Diyos
📖 Deuteronomio 7:9, Roma 2:5, Roma 3:25-26, Roma 5:8, Awit 89:2, Awit 100:5, Santiago 1:17, Lucas 11:11-13, 42, Mateo 5:43-48, Apocalipsis 15:3-4, Apocalipsis 19:1-2, Isaias 25:1

Ang panawagan na manatiling tapat sa katarungan at awa ng Diyos.
Paano natin ipaliwanag ang hindi nagbabagong katarungan ng Diyos at ang Kanyang awa at biyaya?
Ano ang mga hakbang na maaari nating gawin upang ipakita ang katarungan at pag-ibig ng Diyos sa ating buhay?

Biyernes – Pebrero 7, 2025

Mga Kaisipan at Karagdagang Pag-aaral
🖋 Mula sa Panulat ng Inspirasyon (Spirit of Prophecy & Shepherd's Rod)
💡 Mga Puntos na Dapat Pag-isipan

Anong mga aral ang maaari nating matutunan tungkol sa katarungan at awa ng Diyos mula sa kasaysayan sa Bibliya?
Paano pinapalalim ng pagkaunawa sa katarungan ng Diyos ang ating pagpapahalaga sa kaligtasan?
Sa anong mga paraan nakakatulong ang hindi nagbabagong kalikasan ng Diyos sa ating pagtitiwala sa Kanya sa mga oras ng pag-aalala?

Ang pag-aaral na ito ay naglalayong palakasin ang ating pananampalataya sa pag-ibig, katarungan, katuwiran, at hindi nagbabagong katangian ng Diyos habang nagsusumikap tayong itugma ang ating buhay sa Kanyang mga banal na prinsipyo.

Pag-ibig at Katarungan ay Magkasama

Linggo – Pebrero 2, 2025

Pag-ibig at Katarungan – Isang Hindi Maaaring Paghiwalayin na Tandem
📖 Awit 33:5, Isaias 61:8, Jeremias 9:24, Awit 85:10, Awit 89:14
“Ang awa at katotohanan ay nagsanib; ang katuwiran at kapayapaan ay nagsalubong.” {Awit 85:10}

Maaari nating tuklasin kung paano ang dalawang katangian ng Diyos—pag-ibig at katarungan—ay hindi magkasalungat kundi magkasama, magkakaugnay at gumagana ng may pagkakaisa upang makamit ang pinakamataas na layunin ng Diyos para sa paglikha at kaligtasan. Ang mga ito ay dalawang panig ng parehong banal na barya, at hindi maaaring umiral ang isa nang wala ang isa.

Tema: Pag-ibig at Katarungan – Isang Hindi Maaaring Paghiwalayin na Tandem

Mga Pangunahing Talata:

Awit 33:5 - “Ang buong lupa ay puno ng kabutihan ng Panginoon.”
Isaias 61:8 - “Sapagkat ako, ang Panginoon, ay umiibig sa katarungan; kinamumuhian ko ang pandarambong at kasamaan; sa aking katapatan, bibigyan ko sila ng gantimpala at gagawa ng walang hanggang tipan sa kanila.”
Jeremias 9:24 - “Ngunit ang magyayabang ay magyabang sa bagay na ito, na siya ay nakakaunawa at nakakakilala sa akin, na ako ang Panginoon na nagpapakita ng pag-ibig, paghatol, at katuwiran sa lupa: sapagkat ako'y nalulugod sa mga bagay na ito, sabi ng Panginoon.”
Awit 85:10 - “Ang awa at katotohanan ay nagsanib; ang katuwiran at kapayapaan ay nagsalubong.”
Awit 89:14 - “Ang katuwiran at katarungan ay ang saligan ng Iyong trono; ang awa at katotohanan ay nangunguna sa Iyong mukha.”

Mga Insight sa Biblia:

Awit 33:5 - Ang kabutihan ng Diyos ay pumupuno sa buong lupa, ipinapakita ang Kanyang katarungan at pag-ibig sa pamamagitan ng Kanyang mga gawain. Ang Kanyang paghatol ay nakaugat sa Kanyang kabutihan, na nagdudulot ng katarungan para sa mga inaapi at awa para sa mga nagsisisi.
Isaias 61:8 - Ang pag-ibig ng Diyos sa katarungan ay makikita sa Kanyang hangarin na maghari ang katuwiran sa lupa. Sa kontekstong ito, ang katarungan ay pagpapahayag ng kabanalan ng Diyos, habang ang Kanyang awa ay laging naglalayong mag-ayos at magligtas.
Jeremias 9:24 - Nalulugod ang Diyos sa pagpapakita ng pag-ibig, paghatol, at katuwiran. Ang mga aspetong ito ng Kanyang karakter ay nagpapakita ng malalim na balanse sa pagitan ng Kanyang katarungan (ang Kanyang karapatan na parusahan ang kasamaan) at Kanyang pag-ibig (ang Kanyang hangarin para sa pagkakasundo).
Awit 85:10 - Ang talatang ito ay makatang naglalarawan ng pagsasanib ng awa at katotohanan, katuwiran at kapayapaan. Ipinapakita nito na ang pag-ibig at katarungan ng Diyos ay hindi magkasalungat na pwersa, kundi nagsisilbing magkasama at perpektong magkatugma. Ang kapayapaan ay ang bunga ng pagsasanib na ito, dahil ang katarungan ay isinagawa nang may awa, at ang katotohanan ay ipinaabot sa pamamagitan ng pag-ibig.
Awit 89:14 - Ang katuwiran at katarungan ay siyang pundasyon ng trono ng Diyos, at ang awa at katotohanan ay nauuna sa Kanya. Ipinapahiwatig nito na ang bawat desisyon ng Diyos ay nakaugat sa mga prinsipyong ito. Ang mga paghatol ng Diyos ay perpekto dahil ang mga ito ay parehong makatarungan at maawain.

Mga Insight mula sa Espiritu ng Paghula (SOP):

Ellen White, The Desire of Ages, p. 761:
“In the work of redemption, justice and mercy are in perfect harmony. God’s justice requires the punishment of sin; the sinner’s substitute, the Son of God, must bear the penalty of transgression. But mercy and truth meet together in Christ. Through the Son, God is just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus.”
Ang pahayag na ito ay maganda ang paglalarawan kung paano nagkikita ang katarungan at awa ng Diyos kay Cristo. Ang katarungan ay nangangailangan ng pagparusa sa kasalanan, ngunit ang awa, sa pamamagitan ng sakripisyo ni Cristo, ay nagbibigay ng paraan para mapawalang-sala ang makasalanan.
Ellen White, Steps to Christ, p. 62:
"In the life and death of Christ, God’s justice and mercy are revealed. The cross is the great center of God’s justice and mercy. When we see the death of Christ for us, we see both the justice of God’s wrath against sin and the mercy that pardons those who accept Christ."
Binibigyang-diin ng talatang ito ang ideya na ang krus ang sentro ng katarungan at awa ng Diyos. Ang kamatayan ni Cristo ay nagbibigay ng paraan para ang awa ay maipagkaloob sa mga makasalanan habang tinutupad ang mga hinihingi ng katarungan.
Ellen White, Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 280:
"The justice of God is not in opposition to His mercy; they are inseparable. God’s mercy and justice are the two great principles that govern His dealings with His people. Justice demands the punishment of sin, while mercy provides the means of salvation."
Dito, nililinaw ni Ellen White na ang katarungan at awa ng Diyos ay hindi magkasalungat na prinsipyo, kundi sila ay hindi maaaring paghiwalayin, at bawat isa ay nagtutulungan para sa kaligtasan ng sangkatauhan.

Mga Insight mula sa Shepherd's Rod (SRod):

SRod, Vol. 1, p. 56:
"Ang katarungan at awa ng Diyos ay ganap na ihahayag sa huling paghatol. Ang Kanyang awa ay ibinibigay sa mga lumalapit sa Kanya sa pagsisisi, ngunit ang Kanyang katarungan ay magtatagumpay sa pagpapataw ng hatol laban sa masasama. Ang mga tapat ay gagantimpalaan, at ang mga hindi nagsisisi ay haharapin ang mga kahihinatnan ng kanilang mga ginawa."
Ang pahayag na ito ay tumutugma sa ideya na ang awa ng Diyos ay ibinibigay sa mga nagsisisi, ngunit ang Kanyang katarungan ay titiyakin na ang mga hindi magsisisi ay haharapin ang paghatol. Ang parehong awa at katarungan ay ganap na ipinapakita sa huling paghatol.
SRod, Vol. 2, p. 123:
"Sa dakilang araw ng paghatol, ang katarungan ng Diyos ay ihahayag nang walang awa sa mga masasama, ngunit ang Kanyang awa ay magtatagumpay para sa mga tumanggap ng Kanyang biyaya at katarungan. Ang parehong katarungan at awa ay bahagi ng perpektong plano ng Diyos upang ibalik ang sangkatauhan at magdala ng makatarungan at makatarungang paghatol."
Ipinapakita ng SRod na ang katarungan ng Diyos ay ihahayag sa mga masasama nang walang awa, ngunit ang Kanyang awa ay magtatagumpay para sa mga tapat. Pinapakita nito kung paanong ang katarungan at awa ay magkasama sa mga huling hakbang ng Diyos.
SRod, Vol. 2, p. 152:
"Ang katarungan at awa ng Diyos ay magbubuklod sa huling paglilinis ng mundo. Ang Kanyang katarungan ay aalisin ang kasalanan, habang ang Kanyang awa ay magbabalik ng mga matuwid sa walang hanggang kapayapaan at kagalakan."
Ang sipi mula sa SRod ay binibigyang-diin ang ideya na ang katarungan ay aalisin ang kasalanan, habang ang awa ay magbabalik sa mga matuwid sa kanilang walang hanggang tahanan. Isa itong halimbawa kung paanong ang pag-ibig at katarungan ng Diyos ay hindi maaaring paghiwalayin sa Kanyang huling plano para sa pagpapanumbalik ng lupa.

Buod ng mga Insight mula sa SOP at SRod:

Ang parehong Spirit of Prophecy at Shepherd's Rod ay nagtuturo na ang pag-ibig at katarungan ay hindi magkasalungat kundi mga magkakaugnay na katangian ng karakter ng Diyos. Ang katarungan ay nagsisiguro na ang kasalanan ay maaaksyunan ng nararapat, habang ang awa ay nag-aalok ng pagpapatawad at pagpapanumbalik sa mga nagsisisi. Sa huling paghatol, ang katarungan ng Diyos ay magpaparusa sa mga masasama, ngunit ang Kanyang awa ay magtatagumpay para sa mga tumanggap ng Kanyang biyaya. Ang pagsasanib ng dalawang prinsipyong ito ay makikita nang buo sa persona at gawain ni Jesucristo, na sa Kanyang buhay, kamatayan, at pagkabuhay na mag-uli ay tinutupad ang mga hinihingi ng parehong katarungan at awa.

Ang mga tiyak na pahayag mula sa SOP at SRod ay nagpapatibay na ang katarungan at pag-ibig (awa) ng Diyos ay mahalaga upang maunawaan ang Kanyang pakikisalamuha sa sangkatauhan, lalo na kapag isinasaalang-alang natin ang buong saklaw ng kaligtasan at ang huling paghatol.

Ang Hindi Paghiwalay ng Pag-ibig at Katarungan:

Pag-ibig bilang Motibasyon:
Ang pag-ibig ng Diyos ang nagtutulak sa Kanyang katarungan. Kung walang pag-ibig, magiging mahigpit at walang awa ang katarungan. Ang pag-ibig ng Diyos ay nagsisiguro na ang katarungan ay palaging may kaakibat na pag-asa ng pagkakasundo.
Katarungan bilang Pagpapahayag:
Ang katarungan ng Diyos ay nagsisiguro na ang kasamaan ay hindi mapapalampas at ang katuwiran ay mananatili. Gayunpaman, ang katarungang ito ay palaging isinagawa sa loob ng hangarin ng Diyos na maibalik ang Kanyang mga tao sa awa.

Sa kabuuan, ang hindi pagkahiwalay ng pag-ibig at katarungan ay nagpapakita ng kabuuan ng karakter ng Diyos. Ang mga katangiang ito ay nagbibigay ng malinaw na pag-unawa kung paanong kumikilos ang Diyos sa mundo at sa buhay ng Kanyang mga tao. Siya ay makatarungan, ngunit Siya ay maawain din; Siya ay maawain, ngunit hindi hinahayaan ng Kanyang awa na ang kasalanan ay hindi maparusahan.

Aplikasyon para sa Mananampalataya:

Pagtulad sa Pag-ibig at Katarungan:
Bilang mga mananampalataya, tayo ay tinawag upang ipakita ang mga katangiang ito sa ating mga buhay. Nangangahulugan ito ng pagpapanatili ng katarungan at katuwiran sa ating mga relasyon sa iba, habang nag-aabot din ng awa at pag-ibig.
Pamumuhay ng Ayon sa Kalikasan ng Diyos:
Ang pangunahing layunin ng pag-aaral na ito ay matulungan ang mga mananampalataya na mamuhay ng ayon sa karakter ng Diyos—pagbabalansi ng katotohanan at awa, katarungan at kapayapaan, habang lumalago sa kanilang relasyon sa Diyos.
Sa pagtatapos ng pag-aaral na ito, ang mga kalahok ay dapat makapag-unawa na ang pag-ibig at katarungan ay hindi mga hiwalay na aspeto ng karakter ng Diyos, kundi sila ay nagdadala at nagpapakita ng perpektong pagkakaisa. Ang pananaw na ito ay maghihikayat ng mas malalim na paggalang sa karakter ng Diyos at isang mas malaking pagtutok sa pagpapakita ng mga katangiang ito sa kanilang personal na buhay.

Mga Tanong na Pagninilayan:

Ang pag-ibig ba ay bahagi ng karakter ng Diyos (1 Juan 4:8)? Kasama ba ang katarungan sa Kanyang karakter?
Ang katarungan at pag-ibig ay siyang pundasyon ng pamahalaan ng Sansinukob, sapagkat sila ay bahagi ng karakter ng Diyos at nagmumula sa Kanya (Awit 89:14)?
Ito ang dahilan kung bakit ang malaking bahagi ng mga mensaheng ibinigay ng Diyos sa mga propeta ay ang pagsaway sa mga hindi makatarungang kalagayan na kailangang itama ng mga tao upang magkaroon ng pakikisalamuha sa Kanya (Isaias 1:17; Jeremias 2:34-35; Ezekiel 18:7-9; Mikas 6:8)?

Monday-February 3, 2025

God is Entirely Good and Righteous - All Love, All Justice

Deuteronomy 32:4; Psalm 92:15; Ps. 25:8, Ps. 129:4; Zeph. 3:5; Psalm 9:7-8; Psalm 145:9-17; Ps. 7:11; James 1:13; Hab. 1:13; Exod. 33:18-19.

“The Lord is righteous in all his ways and faithful in all he does” (Psalm 145:17)

God’s Character – Perfect in Love and Justice

God’s goodness is inseparable from His justice. His love does not cancel His righteousness, and His justice does not diminish His mercy. The Scriptures declare, "He is the Rock, His work is perfect: for all His ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He" (Deuteronomy 32:4). Every act of God is rooted in holiness and justice, ensuring that sin is punished while the repentant are forgiven.

Spirit of Prophecy (SOP) Statement:
"It is the righteousness of God that makes His love appear in its true and beautiful light. Justice and mercy stand side by side in the plan of redemption." (The Desire of Ages, p. 762)

God does not exercise arbitrary power; rather, His righteousness ensures fairness. The psalmist affirms, "The Lord is righteous in all His ways and holy in all His works" (Psalm 145:17). Even in judgment, He remains faithful and true, never acting unjustly or in partiality.

Shepherd’s Rod (SRod) Statement:
"God’s justice and mercy cannot be separated, for they are two sides of the same divine character. He is not a God of extremes, neither all mercy nor all wrath, but a God who weighs all things in the balances of eternal wisdom." (SRod, Vol. 2, p. 254)

God’s Justice: The Foundation of His Throne

The Bible teaches that God is a just judge, administering righteousness in perfect harmony with His law:
"The Lord is righteous, He loves justice; the upright will see His face" (Psalm 11:7).

Justice is the foundation of His rule, and He will not allow sin to go unpunished:
"For the Lord is a God of judgment: blessed are all they that wait for Him." (Isaiah 30:18)

SOP Statement:
"God is longsuffering and patient, but there is a limit to His forbearance. When men trample upon His law and despise His warnings, His justice must act, or else He would cease to be a righteous ruler." (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 626)

This principle is illustrated in history. When nations reject God's warnings and persist in sin, judgment follows. Yet even His judgments are expressions of mercy, designed to call sinners to repentance.

SRod Statement:
"If God were only merciful and not just, sin would never cease. His judgments, though severe, are necessary to uphold His law and to purify His people." (SRod, Vol. 1, p. 161)

God’s Love: Extending to All Creation

While God is just, He is also full of compassion. His mercy is evident in every act of kindness and salvation:
"The Lord is good to all: and His tender mercies are over all His works." (Psalm 145:9)

God does not delight in punishment but in the salvation of sinners. His love is universal, reaching the righteous and the wicked alike.

SOP Statement:
"It is Satan’s work to represent the Lord as harsh and severe. He causes men to look upon God as watching to denounce and condemn, to refuse or reject. It was to remove this dark shadow by revealing the infinite love of God that Jesus came to live among men." (Steps to Christ, p. 11)

God’s love is always working for the good of His creation, providing every opportunity for repentance. Even in judgment, He acts with fairness, giving ample warning before executing His justice.

SRod Statement:
"God's love is as infinite as His justice. He delays His judgments so that all may have the opportunity to repent, but when His patience has reached its limit, He acts decisively to uphold righteousness." (SRod, Vol. 2, p. 185)

A Balanced View of God’s Character

God is not only a God of love but also of justice. His righteousness ensures fairness, and His mercy provides salvation. He cannot tolerate sin, yet He is longsuffering toward sinners, offering them the opportunity to turn from their ways. His justice and mercy work together in perfect harmony:
"The Lord is righteous in all His ways and faithful in all He does." (Psalm 145:17)

May we recognize the goodness and justice of God, knowing that He desires our salvation while upholding righteousness.

Consider the Following

— God doesn't just ask us to do what is right and show love. He always and at all times exemplifies these traits. God only and always does what is loving, right, and just.

— The Bible declares that God acts justly every morning (Zeph. 3:5.) God knows what is best for everyone, wants what is best for everyone, and continually works to achieve it.

— Despite having all authority and all power; despite having no one above Him who can judge His actions; despite having the right to act as He wishes; God never does anything contrary to justice. He never does anything wrong, nor does He induce anyone to do anything wrong (James 1:13; Ps. 5:4.)

— Although He always seeks justice, He never fails to be loving. So when Moses asked to see God’s glory, God replied, “I will cause all my goodness to pass in front of you […] I will have mercy, […] I will have compassion” (Exod. 33:18-19)

Loving Justice Demands Constancy

Tuesday-February 4, 2025

God's Changeless Character - The Immutable Character of God

Malachi 3:6; James 1:17; Mal. 3:7; 2 Timothy 2:13; Titus 1:2; Hebrews 6:17-18; Hebrews 13:8

Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows” (James 1:17)

God’s Immutability – A Foundation of Trust

God’s character remains unchanging throughout eternity. Unlike human beings, who are subject to fluctuation and inconsistency, God is constant in His righteousness, love, and justice. Malachi 3:6 declares:
"For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed."

His unchanging nature is a source of security for His people. They can trust that His promises, judgments, and mercies are always reliable.

Spirit of Prophecy (SOP) Statement:
"Like their Creator, His laws are changeless. Men may vary; they may be inconsistent; but He is the same yesterday, today, and forever." (The Great Controversy, p. 588)

This truth assures us that God's character is not altered by circumstances. He does not compromise His righteousness nor withdraw His mercy without cause.

Shepherd’s Rod (SRod) Statement:
"God’s immutability is the guarantee that His Word will stand. Every prophecy, every promise, and every judgment will be fulfilled precisely as spoken, for He is not a man that He should lie." (SRod, Vol. 2, p. 223)

God’s Faithfulness – The Rock of Salvation

God’s immutability is closely tied to His faithfulness. The Bible says:
"If we believe not, yet He abideth faithful: He cannot deny Himself." (2 Timothy 2:13)

Even when humanity falters, God remains steadfast. His promises are sure, and His covenants stand firm.

SOP Statement:
"Every promise that God has made will be fulfilled. His truth endures forever, and those who trust in Him will never be put to shame." (Prophets and Kings, p. 536)

The consistency of God’s character gives believers confidence in His Word. Because He does not change, we can be assured that His plan of salvation remains secure.

SRod Statement:
"The same God who led His people in the past is leading them today. His purpose has never changed, nor will it ever change, for He is the same God who spoke to Abraham, Moses, and the prophets." (SRod, Vol. 1, p. 145)

God’s Unchanging Law and Covenant

Because God does not change, neither does His law. His commandments are an eternal reflection of His character:
"Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath." (Hebrews 6:17)

SOP Statement:
"The law of God, being a revelation of His will, a transcript of His character, must forever endure as a faithful witness in heaven. Not one command has been annulled; not a single precept has been changed." (The Great Controversy, p. 434)

This truth refutes the idea that God has adjusted His moral standards over time. His law remains as binding today as when it was given.

SRod Statement:
"Many believe that God changes His ways to fit human desires, but the truth is that He is as steadfast as the sun in the heavens. His law and His Word endure forever, unchanged and unchangeable." (SRod, Vol. 2, p. 189)

Jesus Christ – The Same Yesterday, Today, and Forever

Christ, who is the full revelation of God, also shares in this unchanging nature:
"Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever." (Hebrews 13:8)

His sacrifice, His love, and His mediatorial work remain constant. He is the eternal High Priest, forever interceding for His people.

SOP Statement:
"Christ is the same now as when He walked on earth. He is still full of love, compassion, and truth. His promises remain as steadfast as ever." (The Desire of Ages, p. 480)

Because Christ does not change, His followers can have complete confidence in Him. The salvation He offered to the first disciples is the same salvation available today.

SRod Statement:
"The world may change, doctrines may shift, but Christ remains the same. His truth endures, His mission continues, and His kingdom will be established just as He has spoken." (SRod, Vol. 1, p. 172)

A God Who Can Be Trusted

God’s unchanging nature is a foundation of our faith. Because He is immutable:

His promises will never fail.
His justice will always be upheld.
His love will never diminish.
His law remains eternal.

"Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows." (James 1:17)

In a world of uncertainty, God remains the same—a Rock upon which we can securely stand.

Consider the Following

— God does not change (Mal. 3:6; James 1:17.) This categorical statement must be understood to mean that God's character is unchangeable. If He is love, He always acts in love. If He is just, He always acts in justice.

— As can be seen from his conversation with Abraham about Sodom, God is willing to make changes in his actions, as long as these do not modify his own essence of love and justice (Gen. 18:26-28.)

— We find it difficult to understand God's immutability because of our tendency to change our feelings. Today we are faithful, tomorrow we are not. Today we love ardently, tomorrow we are indifferent. Today we promise to always tell the truth, tomorrow we lie shamelessly.

— God is not like that. He is always faithful (2 Tim. 2:13); always loving (Jer. 31:3); always true (Titus 1:2); immutable (Heb. 6:17).

Wednesday-February 5, 2025

A Repenting God? The Perfection of Divine Love and Justice

Exodus 32:14; Jeremiah 18:4-10; Numbers 23:19; 1 Sam. 15:29.

[He is] the Rock, his work [is] perfect: for all his ways [are] judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right [is] he. (Deut. 32:4)

Does God Repent? Understanding His Justice and Mercy

The Bible states in Exodus 32:14 that "the Lord repented of the evil which He thought to do unto His people." Yet, in Numbers 23:19, we read:
"God is not a man, that He should lie; neither the son of man, that He should repent."

This apparent contradiction must be understood in light of God's unchanging character. When Scripture says that God "repents," it does not mean He changes His eternal purpose. Rather, it signifies that He adjusts His dealings with humanity based on their response to His law.

Spirit of Prophecy (SOP) Statement:
"God's repentance is not like man's repentance. His threatenings or promises are made upon conditions. If men comply with the conditions, He fulfills His word to bless; but if they fail, His judgments will surely follow." (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 630)

This principle is clearly seen in Jeremiah 18:7-10, where God declares that if a nation turns from evil, He will withhold judgment; but if they forsake righteousness, He will bring judgment upon them. His actions are not arbitrary but are based on His moral law and divine justice.

Shepherd’s Rod (SRod) Statement:
"The idea that God literally repents as man does is inconsistent with His infinite wisdom. His 'repentance' simply reflects His dealings with humanity, which are always in harmony with His justice and love." (SRod, Vol. 1, p. 217)

God’s Justice – Always Perfect and Unchanging

Though God's interactions with mankind may vary, His character never changes. 1 Samuel 15:29 affirms:
"The Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for He is not a man, that He should repent."

God does not change His eternal purpose, but His responses depend on whether people choose obedience or rebellion. This balance between justice and mercy is what makes His love perfect.

SOP Statement:
"While God is unchanging, He deals with men according to their actions. If they persist in sin, He withdraws His protection, allowing them to reap the consequences of their choices." (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 177)

SRod Statement:
"God’s government is based on justice and mercy. He does not change His laws, but when people change their ways, He deals with them accordingly. His love remains constant, but His judgments are conditional." (SRod, Vol. 2, p. 205)

Examples of God’s "Repentance" in Scripture

The Bible records several instances where God "repented" in response to human actions:

Exodus 32:14 – After Moses interceded, God chose to spare Israel.
Jeremiah 18:7-10 – God is willing to change the course of judgment based on repentance.
Jonah 3:10 – God "repented" of the destruction He planned for Nineveh when the people repented.

Yet, in cases where rebellion continued, judgment remained certain:

Numbers 23:19 – Balaam declares that God does not lie or repent in the sense of being unreliable.
1 Samuel 15:29 – Saul’s rejection as king was final because he persisted in disobedience.

This shows that God's "repentance" is not a change in His nature but a change in His dealings based on human choices.

God’s Love and Justice in Perfect Balance

God’s "repenting" demonstrates His compassion, while His justice ensures that sin is dealt with fairly. Deuteronomy 32:4 declares:
"He is the Rock, His work is perfect: for all His ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He."

Because God is both just and merciful, He gives warnings before judgment. His desire is that all should repent, but He does not force obedience.

SOP Statement:
"God does not change, but He waits long for sinners to turn to Him. When probation closes, mercy ceases, and justice takes its place." (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 208)

SRod Statement:
"God’s mercy delays punishment, but His justice demands that sin be ultimately removed. His decisions are always righteous, based on the actions of those He judges." (SRod, Vol. 2, p. 245)

A God We Can Trust

God’s "repentance" does not mean instability but rather His willingness to respond to human choices in harmony with His unchanging principles. His justice ensures righteousness, and His mercy allows time for repentance.

"[He is] the Rock, His work [is] perfect: for all His ways [are] judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right [is] He." (Deuteronomy 32:4)

His unchanging character is the foundation of our faith, and we can trust that He always acts with perfect wisdom, love, and justice.

Consider the Following

— The perfection of God's love is clearly vindicated in the act of offering his life to rescue us from sin (Rom. 5:8.) This same act also shows us the perfection of his justice (Rom. 3:25-26.)

— Unlike our love, God continues to constantly impart His perfect love even to those who do not love Him, or are not worthy of receiving His benefits (Mt. 5:45.)

— God’s love exceeds any reasonable expectation, but it never nullifies or contravenes justice. He invites us to act like Him: “Hold fast to love and justice” (Hos. 12:6)

— When God finally establishes justice in this world and, out of love, eradicates evil from the universe, every creature will praise God's perfect justice and perfect love (Rev. 15:3-4.)

Loving Justice and Repentance

Thursday-February 6, 2025

Hold Fast to Love and Justice - God's Repentance

Deut. 7:9; Romans 2:5; 3:25-26; 5:8; Ps. 89:2; 100:5; James 1:17; Luke 11:11-13, 42; Matthew 5:43-48; Rev. 15:3-4; 19:1-2; Isaiah 25:1

“God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind.

Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?” (Numbers 23:19)

The Unchanging Love and Justice of God

God’s love and justice are inseparable. His mercy does not negate His justice, and His justice does not diminish His love. Deuteronomy 7:9 declares:
"Know therefore that the Lord thy God, He is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love Him and keep His commandments to a thousand generations."

This shows that God remains faithful to His covenant, rewarding obedience and dealing justly with sin.

Spirit of Prophecy (SOP) Statement:
"The Lord is slow to anger, yet He will by no means clear the guilty. His mercy is not weakness but a manifestation of His love. Justice and mercy are the two great arms that sustain the throne of God." (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, p. 194)

God's justice is not arbitrary punishment but a necessary response to uphold righteousness. He offers time for repentance, but persistent rebellion leads to judgment.

Shepherd’s Rod (SRod) Statement:
"While God’s love extends to all, His justice ensures that sin will not reign forever. His 'repentance' does not mean inconsistency, but rather His willingness to adjust His dealings according to man’s response to His law." (SRod, Vol. 2, p. 210)

God’s Repentance – A Response to Human Actions

Some may wonder why the Bible speaks of God "repenting" (Exodus 32:14), yet also declares that He does not change His mind (Numbers 23:19). The answer lies in understanding the conditional nature of God's warnings and promises.

Romans 2:5 warns:
"But after thy hardness and impenitent heart treasurest up unto thyself wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God."

If sinners refuse to repent, divine justice will follow. However, if they humble themselves and turn to Him, He withholds judgment and extends mercy.

SOP Statement:
"The Lord does not desire the destruction of any. He warns, instructs, and entreats, that all may choose life. But if they persist in sin, He must, as a God of justice and truth, let them reap the consequences." (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 630)

SRod Statement:
"The 'repentance' of God is not a change in His will but an adaptation of His dealings based on man’s actions. His justice and love remain constant, ensuring that every soul receives according to their deeds." (SRod, Vol. 1, p. 182)

God’s Love Demonstrated in Justice

God’s justice is an expression of His love. Romans 3:25-26 explains that through Christ’s sacrifice, God demonstrates His righteousness:
"To declare, I say, at this time His righteousness: that He might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus."

Divine justice ensures that sin is dealt with, while divine love provides salvation.

Psalm 100:5 affirms:
"For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations."

God’s justice is never separated from His mercy. He does not judge unfairly but gives ample opportunity for repentance before executing judgment.

SOP Statement:
"Justice and mercy blend together in the administration of God’s government. The guilty may find mercy, but only through repentance and faith in Christ." (The Desire of Ages, p. 762)

SRod Statement:
"The world must learn that the God of love is also a God of justice. He does not execute wrath hastily, but when judgment comes, it is perfect and necessary." (SRod, Vol. 2, p. 218)

Holding Fast to Love and Justice

Jesus calls His followers to reflect God’s character:
"Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect." (Matthew 5:48)

This perfection is not about human effort but about embodying God's balance of justice and mercy. Luke 11:42 warns against hypocrisy, reminding believers to pursue true righteousness.

SOP Statement:
"God’s justice upholds righteousness, and His love offers redemption. Those who hold fast to His truth will stand in the last great day." (Prophets and Kings, p. 537)

SRod Statement:
"As God holds fast to love and justice, so must His people. We cannot compromise truth for the sake of false peace, nor ignore mercy in the name of strictness." (SRod, Vol. 1, p. 159)

A God Who Keeps His Promises

God’s love and justice are not opposites but two sides of the same divine character. He does not change His mind like humans but acts consistently with His perfect will.

"God is not human, that He should lie, not a human being, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and then not act? Does He promise and not fulfill?" (Numbers 23:19)

As believers, we must hold fast to both love and justice, knowing that God’s ways are always right and that He will fulfill all His promises.

Consider the Following

— Repentance involves the concept that something has not been done well. Therefore, repentance in God is unthinkable (Num. 23:19; 1S. 15:29.)

— However, several biblical texts speak of God's repentance (E.g. Gen.6:6; 2 Sam. 24:16.)

— God does not back down from His plans for our good. That is why His promises are always trustworthy (2 Cor. 1:20.)

— Yet He is willing to repent of withdrawing His protection, and decline our punishment, in response to our repentance (Jonah 3:10; Ex. 32:14.)

— Therefore, God suspends His judgments in response to repentance precisely because His character is good, just, loving, and merciful.

Friday-February 7, 2025

Insights and Further Study

Throughout this week’s study, we have explored the goodness, justice, immutability, and repentance of God. Below are additional insights from the Spirit of Prophecy (SOP) and the Shepherd’s Rod (SRod) that deepen our understanding of these divine attributes.

Additional Biblical Insights

1. God’s Justice and Mercy Work in Harmony

“Justice and mercy are the attributes of the throne of God. They are the pledge of His government.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 762)
“God’s mercy does not destroy justice, nor does justice exclude mercy. The sinner may choose either eternal life by obedience, or eternal death by rebellion.” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 4, p. 208)
SRod Insight: “When justice and mercy meet, they reveal God’s wisdom. He gives warnings before executing judgments, but once probation closes, only justice remains.” (SRod, Vol. 2, p. 245)
Biblical Reference: "The Lord is righteous in all His ways, and holy in all His works." (Psalm 145:17)

2. The Unchanging Character of God

“God never changes. His purposes, His ways, and His love remain the same throughout all generations.” (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 630)
“What God says, He will do. He is unchangeable in His purposes, yet He accommodates His dealings with men based on their obedience or disobedience.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 177)
SRod Insight: “Those who see God as inconsistent misunderstand His government. He remains constant in purpose while allowing human choices to determine His dealings.” (SRod, Vol. 1, p. 217)
Biblical Reference: "I am the Lord, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed." (Malachi 3:6)

3. God’s Repentance – A Call to Righteousness

“God repents only in the sense that He changes His course of action based on man’s repentance or rebellion. His will is constant, but His dealings vary.” (Prophets and Kings, p. 276)
“God delays judgment in His mercy, giving time for repentance. But He cannot forever bear with those who reject His love.” (The Great Controversy, p. 627)
SRod Insight: “The ‘repentance’ of God is a demonstration of His willingness to save rather than destroy. But when the limit is reached, judgment is swift and final.” (SRod, Vol. 2, p. 205)
Biblical Reference: "At what instant I shall speak concerning a nation… to build and to plant it; if it do evil in My sight, that it obey not My voice, then I will repent of the good, wherewith I said I would benefit them." (Jeremiah 18:9-10)

4. Holding Fast to Love and Justice

“The standard of true Christian character is to reflect the love and justice of God. Those who compromise truth for the sake of peace will be found wanting.” (Steps to Christ, p. 65)
“We are called to love as Christ loved, yet never neglect justice. Love without justice is weakness; justice without love is cruelty.” (Mount of Blessing, p. 18)
SRod Insight: “The final test of faithfulness will be whether we uphold truth without compromise. Only those who hold fast to God’s law will stand in the last great conflict.” (SRod, Vol. 1, p. 159)
Biblical Reference: "Let judgment run down as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream." (Amos 5:24)

Points to Ponder Upon

The Goodness and Justice of God
- How does understanding that God is both all love and all justice affect your faith and daily walk with Him?
- How should we balance mercy and justice in our personal relationships, just as God does?
The Unchanging Nature of God
- If God is unchanging, what does that mean for His promises and warnings in our lives?
- How can we develop an unshakable trust in God’s consistency, especially in times of trials?
God’s Repentance – Conditional Judgment and Mercy
- If God responds to human choices, what does this teach us about personal responsibility in salvation?
- What are examples from the Bible where God altered His judgments because of repentance?
- How does this principle apply to today’s world? Is God still waiting for repentance before executing judgment?
Holding Fast to Love and Justice
- How can we, as believers, reflect both love and justice in our dealings with others?
- In what ways do we sometimes compromise truth in the name of "love"? How can we avoid this?
- How does understanding divine justice impact the way we view final events and Christ’s return?

From the Pen of Inspiration

“God's love has been expressed in His justice no less than in His mercy. Justice is the foundation of His throne, and the fruit of His love. It had been Satan's purpose to divorce mercy from truth and justice. He sought to prove that the righteousness of God's law is an enemy to peace. But Christ shows that in God's plan they are indissolubly joined together; the one cannot exist without the other. “Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other.” Psalm 85:10”

Final Thought

God’s love and justice are the foundation of His character. He is unchanging, yet He interacts with us based on our choices. His justice is not separate from His love, but rather, they work together in perfect harmony. As His people, we are called to hold fast to these principles, reflecting His character in our lives.

"The Lord is righteous in all His ways and faithful in all He does." (Psalm 145:17)

May we seek to grow in His righteousness, understanding His justice, and holding fast to His unchanging truth.

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