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Question 3

Ambrosiaster says God was merciful “so that we will stop sinning and obtain our due reward,” and the lesson lists two reasons we received mercy (overthrowing the devil’s kingdom; preaching God’s kingdom); what picture of God’s intentions and priorities emerges here, and how does it challenge a view of grace focused mainly on personal relief from guilt?

Another way to ask: Based on Ambrosiaster and the two reasons for mercy, what does God seem to be aiming for? How does that challenge the idea that grace is mainly about feeling less guilty?

Direct Answer The lesson presents God’s mercy as purposeful and kingdom-oriented: He pardons to end sin’s reign, overthrow the devil’s kingdom, spread God’s kingdom, and lead believers into obedience that receives reward—not merely to relieve guilt.

Support from Transcript:

Ambrosiaster: God has been merciful “so that we will stop sinning and obtain our due reward,” and thus “allow the grace of God to reign in us.”
Mercy has “two reasons”: “that the kingdom of the devil might be overthrown” and “that the kingdom of God might be preached.”
Returning to the “old man” means taking our lives “from the rule of God’s grace” and handing them “over to sin.”
The lesson ties grace to a life requirement: after initial salvation, God “requires us to walk faithfully… producing godly fruit.”
Jesus’ example after healing: “Sin no more, so that nothing worse happens to you,” showing mercy aims at a changed life.

Discussion Follow-ups This challenges a grace-as-relief model by emphasizing grace as a reigning power that claims our obedience and serves God’s wider purposes.

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