7) Jesus and Mercy

It seems strange that there appears to be very few references to mercy made by the Messiah recorded in the New Testament. However those that are recorded all have one thing in common. The mercy of Yahweh is conditional. These few references are listed below.

In Matthew 5: 7 the merciful are granted mercy.

Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.”

In Matthew 9: 13, mercy is required rather than sacrifice that is offered without faith and understanding.

But go ye and learn what that means, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice: for I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”

In Matthew 12 : 7, a similar thought is again expressed.

“But if ye had known what this means, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless.”

In Matthew 23: 23 the scribes and Pharisees are criticised for their lack of mercy and faith.

“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the weightier matters of the law, judgement, mercy, and faith: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.”

In Luke 6: 36 mercy is an attribute to be acquired by the faithful.

” Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.”

It will indeed be a joyous time when all the earth acknowledges Yahweh and when all the nations praise Him for His abundant mercy as expressed in Psalm 118: 1-2. O praise the LORD, all ye nations: praise him, all ye people. 2 For his merciful kindness is great toward us: and the truth of the LORD endureth for ever. Praise ye the LORD.