Is God an Abusive Parent? - Hard Questions

What's the hardest thing you've watched someone experience? For many, it's probably seeing my children in pain at the hands of doctors.

I hate to see them afraid and suffering. But what if it's for their good? Does that change my perspective? Well yes and no.

No, because I still love my children and I do not want to see them hurt. And yes because I know it's for a greater purpose. The short-term pain outweighs the long-term benefits.

This reminds me of what Jesus Christ endured while his father watched.

But we have to remember what John 3:16 says. John writes, “For God so love the world that he sent his one and only son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

Because God loved the world, he was willing to create a way to restore his creation. Jesus volunteered for the job. It is incorrect to think that God forced Jesus to die on the cross.

Jesus said, “The reason my Father loves me is that I lay down my life—only to take it up again. No one takes it from me, but I lay it down of my own accord. I have authority to lay it down and authority to take it up again. This command I received from my Father.”

Jesus is the Good Shepherd who willingly died so that we may live. That is a reason to call him Savior, friend, and Lord.

Reflect: Read John 10:1-21. What do the sheep, shepherd, and stranger represent? What is the relationship between the sheep and the shepherd? Why is Jesus the good shepherd?

Respond: What should our response be to the good shepherd? How can we model Christ’s sacrifice?

Please share your comments below. I'd also love to know what your questions are so I can answer them in the weeks ahead.

If you want to share this Bible reading plan with friends and family, here is the link:https://bttb.org/hard-questions