God's Mercy Towards The Backslider – Paul M. Williams

Mark 12:1-12 There are some within the ranks of Christendom that fancy that their being in the Lord hangs by a thread - that is, at any time, at any moment, having put one foot wrong, they could suddenly be cast off from the presence of God and fall from grace overnight!! I call this "tightrope Christianity", and there are many who live under the fear and grip of such bondage never knowing whether they are in or out of favour with God.   Dare we call this Christianity!!   Open up the Bible if you will and from every page will cry forth the mercies of a God who is gracious, and full of compassion, slow to anger, and of great mercy. In this sermon, we trace the 1500 year history of a nation called Israel and in so doing consider God's mercy towards the backslider! In beholding this wonder however, we also consider the terror of a holy God, who will not strive with the impenitent forever.   A clear warning is sounded forth in this sermon; trifle with the mercy of God at your own peril!! Whilst the mercies of God of long and His patience enduring, there comes a point in time in which the axe of God's judgment must fall!!   Today, if you will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.