The Problem of Presenting a God Who is Just Love
“For the LORD thy God is a consuming fire, even a jealous God.” Deuteronomy 4:24 (KJV)
In today’s society there are many false gospels being presented from the pulpit. These include positions such as the social gospel or prosperity gospel. One of these many false gospels that is pervasive in today’s pulpits is the “God is Love Only” gospel. The focus forwarded by this false gospel underscores the “unconditional love” of God, the “infinite grace” of God, and God’s willingness to always forgive. Their deceptive and devilish discourse drastically diminishes the holiness, righteousness, wrath, and judgment of God.
In their right context, God’s unconditional love, endless grace, and His heart to always forgive are certainly consistent with the Word of God. However, constantly advocating one truth at the expense of another runs recklessly into a rebellious and deviant doctrine. If you only share about the love of God and not once teach on the holiness, justice, or wrath of God, you are giving an imperfect picture of the Lord. This results in making a God according to your own indulgences and image, which walks you into an insidious practice of idolatry.
“They that make a graven image are all of them vanity; and their delectable things shall not profit; and they are their own witnesses; they see not, nor know; that they may be ashamed.” Isaiah 44:9 (KJV)
“What profiteth the graven image that the maker thereof hath graven it; the molten image, and a teacher of lies, that the maker of his work trusteth therein, to make dumb idols?” Habakkuk 2:18 (KJV)
I submit to you that an image of idolatry is conceived and carved in our minds and hearts before it is carved on a tree or stone.
Typically, a fellowship in the false “God is love only” gospel takes the position that rebuking or reproving others and faithfully implementing church discipline is considered objectionable. Phrases and terms such as “acceptance,” “come as you are,” and “diversity” are weaponized to humiliate anyone that enjoys a fundamental biblical position. They also charge that if you preach anything but the love of God you are oppressive and not open to diversity or the acceptance of others.
Finally, God’s love does not give Him the license to dismiss or ignore our sins. The reciprocity of rebellion demanded a ransom; a ransom that He paid in full by Himself.
“Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28 (KJV)
Yes, God is love. He is also a consuming fire which is fueled by a love that disciplines, cultivates consequences, and treats us with trials intended to break us to lead us to repentance.
The Lake of Fire is an eternal reality and God guarantees punishment for individual sin if it is not covered by the blood of Jesus and if your name is not written in the Book of Life.
Remember lies will leave you in hell but the truth shall set you free.
For the Glory of God,
PBKSR