The Quality of Mercy Is Not Strain'd
The quality of mercy is a natural and effortless act of kindness and compassion that reflects God's character and blesses both the giver and the receiver.
John Wesley emphasizes the profound nature of mercy, drawing from Matthew 5:7, where he reflects on how true mercy is freely given, akin to gentle rain from heaven. He highlights that mercy blesses both the giver and the receiver, and it is a divine attribute that surpasses earthly power and justice. Wesley urges listeners to consider their own merciful actions and to remember that, without mercy, none would find salvation. He calls for a reflection of God's mercy in our interactions with others, reminding us that mercy is essential in the pursuit of justice.
Text
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Matthew 5:7 What is the quality of your mercy towards others?
Reflect on the truth contained in the following quote from the 'Merchant of Venice' by William Shakespeare: "The quality of mercy is not strain'd, It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath: it is twice blest; It blesseth him that gives and him that takes: 'Tis mightiest in the mightiest: it becomes The throned monarch better than his crown; His sceptre shows the force of temporal power, The attribute to awe and majesty, Wherein doth sit the dread and fear of kings; But mercy is above this sceptred sway; It is enthroned in the hearts of kings, It is an attribute to God himself; And earthly power doth then show likest God's When mercy seasons justice.
Therefore, Jew, Though justice be thy plea, consider this, That, in the course of justice, none of us Should see salvation: we do pray for mercy; And that same prayer doth teach us all to render The deeds of mercy.
I have spoke thus much To mitigate the justice of thy plea; Which if thou follow, this strict court of Venice Must needs give sentence 'gainst the merchant there." Lord, may the mercy I show to others reflect the mercy You have shown to me.
Sermon Outline
- The Quality of Mercy
- Definition of Mercy
- The Importance of Showing Mercy
- The Relationship Between Mercy and Justice
Key Quotes
“The quality of mercy is not strain''d, It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven Upon the place beneath: it is twice blest;” — John Wesley
“It blesseth him that gives and him that takes: ''Tis mightiest in the mightiest: it becomes The throned monarch better than his crown;” — John Wesley
“Lord, may the mercy I show to others reflect the mercy You have shown to me.” — John Wesley
Application Points
- Reflect on the quality of your mercy towards others and ask God to help you show more mercy and compassion to those around you.
- Remember that showing mercy to others is a way to demonstrate our love and compassion for them, and it reflects the mercy that God has shown to us.
- Pray for the ability to show mercy and kindness to others, just as God has shown mercy and kindness to us.