OT/NT Hope

(Proverbs 16:6 KJV)  By mercy and truth iniquity is purged: and by the fear of the LORD men depart from evil.

One of the great Hebrew words is the one translated “mercy” (lovingkindness NASB) (2617) [chesed].  I think of this as the Old Testament equivalent of the Greek agape.  Both are words loaded with nuance and depth.  They are built into the character and actions of God and expected of us.  A familiar NT usage of agape,

(John 3:16 KJV)  For God so loved [agape] the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Another word is “truth” (571).  This is a vital concept to Christians and part of the reason we are not comfortable with our world.  We believe there is absolute truth.  We believe that there are eternal truths.  We believe that truth is tied in with the person and work of Jesus.

(John 14:6 KJV)  Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

When Jesus went to the cross He brought together lovingkindess and truth.  Because of that our “iniquity” can be forgiven.

So?  Rejoice today in the assurance of forgiveness and eternity.