True Wisdom – James 3:13-18

19. True Wisdom is full of mercy.

Matthew 18:15-35

But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness. (Psalm 86:15)

But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. (Ephesians 2:4-10)

Study it Out

1. According to the passages above, what is the basis for us to show mercy to others? How does God’s mercy empower us to act in like manner?
2. Does mercy or forgiveness mean ignoring or covering up sin? Why or why not? How can giving correction and discipline be an act of mercy? (Think about the previous study.)
3. Reconciliation should always be the aim of any correction given. How does Matthew 18:15-35 guide your thoughts on both confrontation and forgiveness?

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