Truth or Consequences

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Study Notes

We do not believe in "karma" but we do believe in consequences. The difference is simple, karma is attributed to fate and consequences are the result of self-will. Karma is fixed by fate. However even in our consequences we can find forgiveness. Fate has no grace. God is slow to anger and full of mercy. In fact, His mercy is new every morning, BUT, if we try to live life contrary to His ways, the consequences are often very rough...as Jesus announced.

1. Premonition and Prediction
   God had sent prophets and Jesus would send more! Seldom was a man of God accepted and his words honored. The pattern would continue and the generation that rejected THE prophet would pay the aweful price for this rejection.
2. Lamentation and Desolation
   Jesus lamented over Jerusalem as David lamented over his rebellious son. The people of Israel enjoyed their privileges but squandered their responsibilities. Jesus would have gathered them under the shadow of His wings, but "they would not."
3. Appreciation and Demolition
   The disciples were very impressed with the architecture and beauty of Herod's Temple.

Jesus had a new "temple" in mind...

...you also, like living stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ...  ~1 Peter 2:5

Remember...

1. The patience of God...
2. The love of God...
3. The justice of God...
4. The faithfulness of God...
5. The promise of God...

QUESTIONS FOR FAMILY, SMALL GROUP OR PERSONAL REFLECTION

• Are you aware of anything you are doing right now that has been forbidden by God? If not, rejoice. If yes, why not turn to Him now before the consequences reach their fullness?
• Are you trying to bring the consequences of someone else's choices to pass? It would be better to wait on the Lord's grace...what would that look like?
• Are you being pro-active in learning God's ways?