REFLECTING JEHOVAH'S JUSTICE AND MERCY

 The account about the way the case in ancient Corinth was handled was written and preserved "for our instruction." (Romans 15:4) From that account, we learn that Jehovah does not tolerate serious wrongdoing among his people. He does not take the view that wrongdoers who are unrepentant should be "mercifully" allowed to continue associating with his faithful worshippers. Jehovah is merciful, but he is not permissive' nor does he lower his standards. (Jude 4) Indeed, to do so would not be merciful at all because it would endanger all in the congregation.  - PROVERBS 13:20; 1 CORINTHIANS 15:33. 

Still, we learn that Jehovah does not want anyone to be destroyed. He wants to save people whenever possible. He shows mercy to people who have a change of heart and want to repair their relationship with him. (Ezekiel 33:11; read 2 Peter 3:9) Thus, when the man in Corinth repented and turned away from his sinful course, Jehovah used Paul to explain to the congregation that the man should be forgiven and welcomed back. 

Next time: REFLECTING JEHVAH'S JUSTICE AND MERCY-Conclusion

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