Divine anger and compassion are two significant attributes of God as revealed in the Bible. These attributes, while seemingly contrasting, together reflect the complexity and depth of God's character. Throughout Scripture, God's anger is portrayed as a righteous response to sin and injustice, while His compassion is shown as a profound expression of love and mercy towards His creation.

Divine Anger

Divine anger is often depicted as God's righteous indignation against sin, idolatry, and disobedience. It is not capricious or arbitrary but is a just response to human actions that violate His holy standards. In the Old Testament, God's anger is frequently associated with His covenant relationship with Israel. When the Israelites turned to idolatry or failed to uphold the covenant, God's anger was kindled against them. For instance, in the book of Exodus, after the Israelites worshiped the golden calf, God's anger burned against them: "Now leave Me alone so that My anger may burn against them and consume them. Then I will make you into a great nation" (Exodus 32:10).

The prophets often warned of God's impending judgment due to the people's persistent sin. In the book of Jeremiah, God expresses His anger towards Judah for their idolatry and social injustices: "Therefore, this is what the LORD says: 'I am about to bring disaster upon them that they cannot escape. They will cry out to Me, but I will not listen to them'" (Jeremiah 11:11).

However, divine anger is not eternal or unrestrained. It is often described as lasting only for a moment, in contrast to His enduring love. Psalm 30:5 states, "For His anger is fleeting, but His favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay the night, but joy comes in the morning" . This verse highlights the temporary nature of God's anger compared to His everlasting favor.

Divine Compassion

In contrast to divine anger, God's compassion is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting His deep love and mercy. Compassion is often described as God's response to human suffering and need. The Hebrew word for compassion, "racham," is related to the word for "womb," suggesting a nurturing, parental love.

God's compassion is evident in His dealings with Israel. Despite their repeated failures, God continually shows mercy and offers forgiveness. In the book of Isaiah, God reassures His people of His enduring compassion: "Though the mountains may be removed and the hills may be shaken, My loving devotion will not depart from you, and My covenant of peace will not be broken," says the LORD, who has compassion on you" (Isaiah 54:10).

The New Testament further reveals God's compassion through the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. Jesus is often moved with compassion for the crowds, healing the sick and feeding the hungry. In Matthew 9:36, it is written, "When He saw the crowds, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd" .

God's compassion is also linked to His patience and desire for repentance. In 2 Peter 3:9, it is stated, "The Lord is not slow to fulfill His promise as some understand slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish but everyone to come to repentance" . This verse underscores God's compassionate desire for all to turn from sin and receive His mercy.

Interplay of Anger and Compassion

The interplay between divine anger and compassion is a recurring theme in Scripture. God's anger serves as a warning and a call to repentance, while His compassion offers hope and restoration. The book of Hosea beautifully illustrates this dynamic. Despite Israel's unfaithfulness, God declares His intention to heal and restore them: "I will heal their apostasy; I will freely love them, for My anger has turned away from them" (Hosea 14:4).

Ultimately, divine anger and compassion are harmonized in the person and work of Jesus Christ. On the cross, God's righteous anger against sin was satisfied, and His compassion was fully displayed, offering salvation to all who believe. Through Christ, believers experience the fullness of God's love, where His justice and mercy meet.