Q85. What does God require of us so that we may escape his anger and curse for sin?
To escape God’s anger and curse for sin, God requires of us faith in Jesus Christ and repentance that leads to life, along with faithfully using all the ways Christ gives us the blessings of salvation.
Scripture Proofs — King James Version
Acts 20:21
“Testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Mark 1:15
“And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.”
John 3:16, 18
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. … He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.”
Proverbs 2:1–5
“My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God.”
Proverbs 8:33–36
“Hear instruction, and be wise, and refuse it not. Blessed is the man that heareth me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. For whoso findeth me findeth life, and shall obtain favour of the LORD. But he that sinneth against me wrongeth his own soul: all they that hate me love death.”
Isaiah 55:3
“Incline your ear, and come unto me: hear, and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David.”
Parent Guide
Discuss this question together
Discussion Questions
- 1
What does God require of us so we can escape his anger for sin?
- 2
What does it mean to have faith in Jesus and repentance that leads to life?
- 3
How do you know whether you are trusting in Jesus or trusting in your own good behavior?
Illustration
When you are sick and the doctor gives you medicine, you have to take it. Just knowing the medicine exists does not make you well. God has provided the cure for sin in Jesus Christ. Faith is receiving that cure, and repentance is turning away from what made you sick.
Application
Because God provides the way to escape his judgment through Jesus, you do not have to earn your way out. Ask God to give you faith to trust in Jesus and a heart that turns from sin. You can pray simply: "God, I cannot save myself. Help me trust your Son."