The LORD said to Moses, "Take all the leaders of these people, kill them and expose them in broad daylight before the LORD, so that the Lord’s fierce anger may turn away from Israel." Numbers 25:4 (NIV)
The Father’s rage was white hot against the children of Israel. They had done what they had been repeatedly warned against doing. The Mosaic Law demanded a payment. Jehovah’s anger was not quenched until 24,000 of the idolaters were dead. That is life under the law. Crime and Punishment. One follows the other .But, the Lord’s rage cooled before He destroyed all of Israel, as He was going to do. They received undeserved mercy.
Many people say "I just want what I deserve.” Not me, Brothers and Sisters. I deserve to roast in Hell for all eternity. When people say that, they have not looked at the Law. The Law is us receiving what is due us. Mercy is us receiving a royal pardon, something we don’t deserve. Which system would you rather live under? Praise the Messiah for His mercy and grace.
Copyright 2007 Timothy E. Davis