The Unfathomable Heart of Christ
As we ponder the depths of God’s wrath towards those who reject Him, we must also consider the intensity of His love and compassion towards those who belong to Him. The Bible reveals a God who is both fiercely just and abundantly merciful.
The Weight of Sin
We often underestimate the gravity of sin because we fail to see its true nature. Martyn Lloyd-Jones notes that “we are all on very good terms with ourselves, and we can always put up a good case for ourselves.” However, when we catch a glimpse of God’s holiness, we begin to understand the revolting nature of sin.
Jesus’ Heart Towards Sinners
In contrast to our own self-justification, Jesus feels deeply about our sins and failures. His heart is drawn out to us in pity and compassion, rather than anger. As Thomas Goodwin explains, “Christ takes part with you, and is so far from being provoked against you, as all his anger is turned upon your sin to ruin it.”
The Distinction Between Those In and Out of Christ
It is essential to recognize the difference between those who belong to Christ and those who do not. For those outside of Christ, sin evokes holy wrath. However, for those in Christ, sin evokes holy longing, holy love, and holy tenderness.
The Mystery of Christ’s Holiness
Christ’s holiness is not mutually exclusive with His love for sinners. Instead, His holiness draws His heart out to help, relieve, and protect us. This is a profound mystery that we can only begin to comprehend as we gaze upon the beauty of God’s character.
A Father’s Love
Goodwin illustrates this concept by comparing Christ’s love to a father’s love for a child afflicted with a terrible disease. The father hates the disease, but loves the child, and his heart is drawn out to the child in pity and compassion.
Discipline and Love
While Christ’s care for His people includes discipline, this discipline is not punitive, but rather intended to bring healing. It is a reflection of His great heart for us, which desires our restoration and growth.
Conclusion
As we meditate on the heart of Christ, we are met with a mystery that is both unfathomable and transformative. May we be drawn into the depths of His love and compassion, and may our lives be forever changed by the encounter.
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