THE PATIENCE OF GOD

Introduction:

A. There Is Much About God The Bible Reveals.

1. He is a loving, graceful God.

2. He is a forgiving, merciful God.

3. He is a powerful, just God.

B. An Aspect Normally Mentioned In Retrospect Is His Patience.

Body: 2 Peter 3: 8 - 11

I. His Patience Is Long.

A. How long it takes is not important (cf. v. 8 with Genesis 29: 20).

B. Examples of patience.

1. He was patient with the nation of Israel.
2. Paul was an example of His patience (1 Timothy 1: 16)

II. His Patience Often Endures Suffering.

A. God has suffered in days gone by.

1. When the wickedness of man was great in the days of Noah.
2. When the Israelites served other Gods.
3. When His people suffered.

B. We cause God to endure suffering.

1. When we make wrong choices.
2. When we disobey Him.
3. When we do not trust in Him.
4. When we make decisions by the flesh and not by the Spirit

III. His Patience Is Not Everlasting.

A. He does recompense the wicked.

1. The Day of the Lord is a historical, biblical fact.
2. He has promised to bring just reward upon evil doers.

B. There will be a Judgment Day.

1. This life and world are not eternal.
2. One day everything will be purified by fire!

Conclusion:

A. God Is Patient.

1. He dies not want anyone to perish.

2. He wants to give everyone ample chance to return to Him.

3. He endures long and often with much suffering.

B. How Patient Has He Been With You?