We tend to think of patience & grace as basically synonyms. But biblically speaking, that is not always the case.
Sometimes God delays judgment in order to display mercy. But sometimes He delays judgment in order to expose rebellion, harden the self-righteous in their chosen path, and vindicate the justice of His wrath.
In Matthew 23:34–36, Jesus announces that He will send prophets, wise men, & scribes to that generation—not because they will receive them, but because they will reject them. Their treatment of Christ’s messengers will prove that they are true sons of those who murdered the prophets. From Abel to Zechariah, the blood of the righteous has cried out. And Jesus declares that all of it will come upon that generation.
This is a sermon about covenantal bloodguilt, delayed judgment, AD 70, the end of old covenant Israel, and the terrifying reality that God’s patience is not always mercy.
Sometimes God gives men enough rope with which to hang themselves.
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