Q. 11. Is not God then also merciful?
Question. Is not God then also merciful?
Answer. God is indeed merciful (Ps. 103;8); but also just (Ps. 89;14); therefore his justice requires that sin, which is committed against the most high majesty of God (Ps. 51;4), be also punished with extreme, that is, with everlasting punishment, both of body and soul (Hab. 1;13.)
Proofs.
- [proof-1] Ps. 103;8.—The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.— Ex. 34;6, 7.—Ps. 100;5.
- [proof-2] Ps. 89;14.—Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne.— Ps. 7;11.—Ps. 97;2.
- [proof-3] Ps. 51;4.—Against thee, thee only have I sinned and done this evil in thy sight.—1 Chron. 29;11.—Rom. 3;26.
- [proof-4] Hab. 1;13.—Thou art of purer eyes than to behold evil, and canst not look on iniquity.—Rev. 14;11.—2 Thes. 1;6-10.— Matt. 25;46.
Source and provenance
Citation: Heidelberg Catechism Q. 11, Wikisource 1879 Reformed Church in America translation.
Original work: Public-domain historical catechism
Digital source: Wikisource transcription
Edition status: Edition comparison pending
Proof texts: Proof lines preserved; extraction partial
Scripture refs: 1CH.29.11, 2TH.1.6-2TH.1.10, HAB.1.13, MAT.25.46, PSA.100.5, PSA.103.8, PSA.51.4, PSA.7.11, PSA.89.14, PSA.97.2, REV.14.11, ROM.3.26
Source provider: Wikisource
Use guidance: Use with source citation; compare edition before formal reuse