The term is used in a
variety of ways in the OT. But generally,
it is always in the category of “goodness,” of things favorable to others. The typical English translations are goodness,
mercy, lovingkindness, kindness and favour. It is one of the greatest words in the Bible,
especially in light of what it tells us about God. Let us remember, it is also a quality
enjoined upon men (Prov. 3:3-4).
When we read Scripture, the
immediate context of life in which we find ourselves will cause us to see
familiar verses in a different light. It
does not change the interpretation; it enlarges our understanding of the significance
of God’s word in a given situation.
These days (written in April
of 2020), the world is engulfed in the “coronavirus pandemic.” If that is not enough, let us add that as
soon as the pandemic clears away from the news we will get back to “climate
change.” In the case of the virus we are
told that the world will never be free of this disease; it is here to stay (not
necessarily in “pandemic” proportions but it will just be a new strain of the
flu with which we will have to deal). In
the case of the climate we are told that the world will be destroyed if we
continue the path we are on.
We have commented on these
kinds of views that are prevalent around us.
My understanding of who Jesus Christ is, as the Son of God (I say “my
understanding;” I mean the Bible’s understanding) is that He not only is the
Creator (John 1:1-3) but He is the Sustainer of creation (Col. 1:17; Heb.
1:3). Because He created all things I
should, out of thankfulness and reverence, treat the creation with respect,
using it in the ways He intended.
Because He sustains all things, I should not live in fear of destroying
His creation.
Now we see something else
that should encourage us. The earth
(literally “the land,” Heb. eretz) is full of God’s chesed. These words were written for us after
the fall into sin (Gen. 3). Thus, even
in a fallen word it is true. We see God’s
goodness all over this world. He continues
to provide abundantly for the needs of mankind.
But here is another thought
about this. We have often noted that the
first use of a word in the Hebrew Scripture is significant in defining the
word. The first use of chesed is
in Gen. 19:19. It was used by Abraham’s nephew Lot, who recognized the favour
of the angels in allowing him to escape the judgment of Sodom and Gomorrah. In
other words, it spoke of God’s mercy.
More exciting news on this in the next post.
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