Mercy, Omnipotence and Justice

Charles Spurgeon preaches that God perfectly balances two seemingly opposite qualities—being "slow to anger" (patient and merciful) and "will not at all acquit the wicked" (perfectly just in punishing sin)—and both qualities flow from His greatness and goodness. He explains that God is incredibly patient, giving repeated warnings before punishment, waiting long periods before carrying out judgment, and showing mercy even to the worst sinners, but this patience doesn't mean He ignores sin—every sin must be punished either on the cross where Jesus took our punishment or in hell for those who reject Him. Spurgeon urgently warns his listeners not to mistake God's patience for weakness or delay, because death could come at any moment and those who haven't fled to Christ for salvation will face the terrible justice of a God who is both powerful enough and just enough to punish all wickedness.Sermon delivered by Charles Spurgeon on June 21, 1857.