Secularism’s Rejection of God
For the *wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness because that which is known about God is evident within them; for God made it evident to them. (NASB95)
Many emphasize the love of God while depreciating His wrath. However, the wrath of God is a consistent Biblical theme. Therefore, let us consider and contrast the wrath of God, which is perfectly expressed, and the wrath of man, which is often imperfectly manifested.
The Greek noun orgē refers to “impulse, wrath” [Thomas]. BDAG defines it as the “(1) state of relatively strong displeasure, with focus on the emotional aspect, anger; (2) strong indignation directed at wrongdoing, with focus on retribution, wrath…”
The Greek verb orgizō means “to make angry” [Thomas]. BDAG defines it as “to be angry.”
The adjective orgilos means “inclined to anger, passionate” [Thomas]. BDAG say it is descriptive of one who is “inclined to anger, quick-tempered.”
Illustrations of Divine Wrath Causes of Divine Wrath Characteristics of Divine Wrath
Parable of the Unjust Steward (Matt. 18:21- 35, esp. vs 34). Parable of the Marriage Feast (Matt. 22:1-10, esp. vs. 7). Parable of the Dinner (Luke 14:16-24, esp. vs. 21).
Caused by Lack of Repentance (Matt. 3:5-9; Luke 3:7-9). Caused by Lack of Righteousness (Rom. 1:18- 32; 2:4-11). Caused by Lack of Obedience (John 3:36; Eph. 2:1-3; 5:3-6; Col. 3:5-10).
The wrath of God is just (Rom. 3:5-6; 4:14-15; 9:19-26). The wrath of God is full (1 Thess. 2:14-16; Rev. 14:9-11). The wrath of God is fierce (Rev. 16:17-19; 19:11-16).
Righteous Anger is Restrained Sinful Anger is Unrestrained
Sinful anger is inconsistent with our Christian calling, and must, therefore, be put away (Eph. 4:25-32, esp. vs. 26 & 31; Col. 3:5-11, esp. vs. 8). Lifting up holy hands, we must pray without wrath and dissension (1 Tim. 2:8).
We must be cautious in criticism and condemnation (Matt. 5:21-22). We must be patient when wronged, allowing God or civil government to deal out retribution (Rom. 12:17-21; 13:1-7).
For anger to be rightly expressed, it must be based upon accurate information, constrained in expression and duration (James 1:19-20; Eph. 4:26-27). In contrast, consider the compounding consequences of Cain’s transgression (Gen. 4:3-8; Heb. 11:4; 1 John 3:11-12; Jude 11).
Setting the right example, bishops/overseers are not quick-tempered or pugnacious, but self-controlled, sensible and sound in their speech (Titus 1:7-9; cf. 1 Tim. 3:2-7).
Reacting to the return of the prodigal, the older brother was unforgiving and unreasonable (Luke 15:25-32). Responding to the reign and rule of Christ, the sinful nations were enraged against the Lord and His Anointed (Rev. 11:15-18; cf. Psalm 2).
Following his defeat in heaven, and his futile attempts to destroy Jesus Christ, the devil was enraged against the Lord’s disciples, and made war against the church (Rev. 12:13-17).
Great peril befalls those who provoke God’s wrath (Heb. 3:7-11; 4:1-3). Even Christ, the Lamb of God, is angered by those who reject the truth (Mark 3:1-6; Rev. 6:15-17). Nevertheless, He saves those who are obedient from the wrath to come (Rom. 5:6- 9; 1 Thess. 1:9-10; 5:9-11).