“Of course He isn’t safe, but He is good!”
*“Moral, therapeutic deism” and a “grandfatherly” God*
DAVID ATTEMPTS TO BRING THE ARK OF THE LORD TO JERUSALEM
The Ark is being transported on a cart
Uzzah touches the Ark and is struck dead (Numbers 4:20)
David becomes afraid and sends the Ark to Obed-Edom
HOW CAN SINFUL HUMAN BEINGS STAND IN THE PRESENCE OF A HOLY GOD?
The “protective gear” of Old Testament sacrifices and rituals
In the New Covenant, faith in Jesus enables us to stand in God’s presence (Hebrews 4:16)
THOSE WHO REFUSE TO TRUST IN THE LORD DON’T ENJOY THIS SAFETY
The fire of God’s holiness will consume sinners who do not have Jesus (Revelation 20:12, 15; John 3:36)
Those who refuse to have Jesus pay the penalty for their sins must pay that penalty themselves
CHRISTIANS DO NOT ALWAYS EXPERIENCE GOD AS BEING “SAFE”
The Lord disciplines those He loves (Hebrews 12:6; 1 Corinthians 11:30)
God is always good but not always safe
A God who is not safe, but is very good, is one we can trust, love, serve, and adore