The Attributes of God: The Wrath of God

The wrath of God is something that Scripture clearly talks about. It is something that God must pour out in order to deal with sin as a holy and righteous judge. While it may not seem like a pleasant topic to dwell on, how do we view it? Is God's wrath something we can celebrate or praise Him for? It may seem inhumane to celebrate the fact that people will suffer and receive God's wrath for their unbelief. Until we get a clear understanding of God's wrath towards sin in relation to His holiness, we may find ourselves being sympathetic towards the world's view of God's wrath being too harsh. 

As we turn to Scripture, we find that God makes no attempt to conceal or downplay the facts concerning His wrath. He makes it clear that vengeance belongs to Him. "See now that I alone am he; there is no God but me. I bring death and I give life; I wound and I heal. No one can rescue anyone from my power. I raise my hand to heaven and declare; As surely as I live forever, when I sharpen my flashing sword, and my hand takes hold of judgment, I will take vengeance on my adversaries and repay those who hate me" Deuteronomy 32:39-41. 

As a matter of fact, the Bible contains more references about God's wrath, anger, fury, condemnation and judgment than it does about His love and tenderness. God's wrath is part of His Divine perfection and His faithfulness, power and mercy. There is no blemish, defect, or flaw in His character. There would actually be a defect or blemish in God if he was indifferent towards sin. Romans 9:22 explains how God, who is infinitely holy, cannot disregard sin or refuse to manifest His severity towards sin. The wrath of God is His eternal detestation of all unrighteousness. God is angry against sin because it is a rebellion against His authority and sovereignty. It is not a malicious retaliation, inflicting injury or pain just for the sake of it, or in return for any pain or injury received. God is not vindictive. Romans 1:18 tells us that, "God's wrath is revealed from heaven against all godlessness and unrighteousness of people who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth."

Having a clear understanding of God's wrath as a perfection of His Divine character should cause us to have a better understanding of God's detestation of sin. This should also impress upon us to not treat sin lightly or try to make excuses for it.

It should also cause us to have a more reverent fear of God. "Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful. By it, we may serve God acceptably, with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire." Hebrews 12:28. It should also cause us to praise Him for delivering us from "the wrath to come"  1 Thessalonians 1:10. One day God will display His glorious wrath by taking vengeance on everyone who opposed Him.

We must also recognize that God''s wrath is righteous judgment, just as how it was necessary to be poured out upon His Son for our sins. Scripture explains how Jesus endured His Father's wrath.

Mark 14:34, "I am deeply grieved to the point of death."

Hebrews 5:7,8, "During his earthly life, he offered prayers and appeals with loud cries and tears to the one who was able to save him from death, an dhe was heard because of his reverence. Although he was the Son, he learned obedience from what he suffered."

Matthew 26:39, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will."

And when Jesus received the full wrath of His Father and just before He gave up His spirit, He cried out, "My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?"

God's wrath is severe and unmatched by any other punishment, but it is necessary and demonstrates His severe view and treatment towards sin. Knowing this should cause us to drop to our knees and thank Him for rescuing us His wrath to come.

Pastor Bryan

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4/2/2026 – The Messiah's Work (Isaiah 11:6-16) – David

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3/19/2026 – "The Fire That Would Not Go Out..." – Ed

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Weekly Word Archive (2025 and earlier)