An Act of Mercy
God is good, and everything He does is filled with love and wisdom—even in His judgments. When we think about the final destruction of the wicked, it may seem harsh at first, but the Bible shows us that even this is an act of God’s kindness and mercy.
God’s kingdom is a place of perfect love, peace, and holiness. For those who have chosen to reject God’s love and cling to sin, a life in God’s presence would not be joyful; it would be unbearable. Sin has a way of twisting a person’s heart, making them seek only self-interest and turning them away from true peace and joy. Living in a place where everyone loves one another, where selfishness doesn’t exist, and where God’s presence shines continually would be painful for someone who has chosen to hold onto sin. It would be like bringing darkness into the brightest day—they simply wouldn’t fit in and would feel tormented.
In His compassion, God understands this. The final destruction of the wicked is not just an act of vengeance but also one of mercy. For those who refuse His grace, death is a release from the constant agony they would experience in a perfect, holy place. It also brings an end to the sin and suffering they would continue to bring into the world. God promises a new creation without pain, sorrow, or death, and this promise includes a world without the curse of sin.
This doesn’t mean God is glad to see anyone destroyed. On the contrary, 2 Peter 3:9 says, “The Lord is…not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance.” God’s heart aches for those who refuse His love, and He has done everything possible to save every person.
But God also respects our freedom. In the end, for those who choose to reject Him, their destruction is a final, merciful act. It prevents them from enduring endless suffering in a world they would never be at peace, while also allowing God’s new creation to flourish in perfect harmony.
So, while God’s judgment is serious, we can trust that it is also loving. God’s ways are always good, even when we may not fully understand them, and His plan is for a universe of everlasting joy and peace for those who have chosen Him.
