In Genesis 38, I see him killing people for being evil. That's not how I envision God.

Question

In Genesis 38, I see him killing people for being evil. That's not how I envision God. Please explain this part of the story.

AI Answers

Genesis 38 tells the story of Judah and his daughter-in-law Tamar. The chapter also introduces Judah's sons, Er and Onan, who are killed because Er is evil in the eyes of the Lord, and his brother Onan is also evil in the eyes of the Lord. These stories can be shocking to today's readers, especially when they seem at odds with modern Christian beliefs that emphasize God's justice and love.

To understand these parts of the Bible, we need to consider the cultural and theological background of the time. The Old Testament often emphasizes God's absolute sovereignty and justice, and describes swift punishment for evil deeds. This is to remind us that God is holy, and to give us a stern warning against sin. Specifically, the deaths of Er and Onan were caused by their actions violating their covenants with their families, society, and God.

Question

Even taking into account the culture and theology of the time, why would God punish so harshly? Couldn't he have done it any other way?

AI Answers

God's harsh punishments are meant to demonstrate His holiness and justice. God does not tolerate sin, and He wanted to make the consequences of sin clear to warn people. In the case of Er and Onan, their actions weren't just a misstep, but a grave offense that broke the covenant with God. Because this covenant violation could have adversely affected the entire community, God took strong action.

But this picture of punishment isn't just an expression of justice; throughout the Bible, God is also constantly offering opportunities for forgiveness and restoration. Just as Old Testament law and judgment are complemented by New Testament love and grace, God is always giving humans a chance to repent and is willing to accept those who return.

Question

So how does God distinguish between sin and sinner, and reconcile forgiveness and judgment?

AI Answers

God is a God of wisdom and love who distinguishes between sin and sinners. The Bible teaches that God hates sin, but loves humans who are sinners. This distinction comes from God's essential attributes of justice and love. Justice demands just punishment for sin, and love extends mercy to those who repent.

For example, King David committed a grave sin, but when he sincerely repented, God forgave him. This shows that God's judgment is not just about punishing, but also about restoring the sinner. In the New Testament, this principle is made even clearer through Jesus Christ. Jesus loved sinners and laid down his life for them. His cross is the point of perfect harmony between God's justice and love.

Thus, God hates sin, but loves the sinner, and always offers forgiveness and a new chance to those who repent. In this way, God's justice and love are made perfect.