In the Bible, the concept of "good" is deeply rooted in the nature and character of God. The term is used to describe moral excellence, righteousness, and the beneficial qualities that align with God's will. The Bible begins with the declaration of God's creation as "good." In Genesis 1:31 , it is written, "God saw all that He had made, and it was very good." This establishes the inherent goodness of God's creation and His intentions for the world.

The goodness of God is a recurring theme throughout Scripture. Psalm 34:8 invites believers to "Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him." This verse emphasizes the experiential nature of God's goodness, encouraging individuals to trust and find refuge in Him. God's goodness is also reflected in His actions and commandments, which are designed for the well-being of His people. In Micah 6:8 , the prophet declares, "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you but to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?"

The New Testament further reveals the goodness of God through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. In Mark 10:18 , Jesus states, "Why do you call Me good? No one is good except God alone." This underscores the divine standard of goodness and the recognition that true goodness originates from God. Believers are called to emulate this goodness in their lives, as seen in Galatians 5:22-23 , where the fruit of the Spirit includes "goodness."

Wrath

The concept of "wrath" in the Bible refers to God's righteous anger and judgment against sin and unrighteousness. It is an expression of His holiness and justice, demonstrating His intolerance for evil. The wrath of God is not arbitrary or capricious but is a response to the violation of His divine law and order.

In the Old Testament, God's wrath is often depicted in response to the disobedience and idolatry of His people. In Deuteronomy 9:7-8 , Moses reminds the Israelites of their rebellion, saying, "Remember this and never forget how you provoked the LORD your God in the wilderness. From the day you left the land of Egypt until you reached this place, you have been rebelling against the LORD. At Horeb you provoked the LORD, and He was angry enough to destroy you." This passage illustrates the seriousness with which God views sin and the consequences that follow.

The New Testament continues to affirm the reality of God's wrath, particularly in relation to the final judgment. Romans 1:18 states, "The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the ungodliness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness." This verse highlights the ongoing nature of God's wrath against sin and the ultimate accountability that all humanity faces.

However, the New Testament also reveals the provision of salvation from God's wrath through Jesus Christ. In Romans 5:9 , Paul writes, "Since we have now been justified by His blood, how much more shall we be saved from wrath through Him!" This underscores the redemptive work of Christ, who bore the wrath of God on behalf of sinners, offering reconciliation and peace with God.

The Bible presents God's wrath as a necessary aspect of His character, ensuring that justice is upheld and that evil is ultimately addressed. Believers are called to live in reverence of God's holiness, recognizing both His goodness and His righteous judgment.