When people are jealous, we usually sin. But not always. A woman who knows her husband’s eyes are being drawn away to another is rightly jealous! In that same way, God is so deeply connected to us that His concern for us is rightly, infinitely, jealous.
- God warns the Israelites not to worship other gods because He is jealous. (Ex 20:5; Ps 78:58)
- God warns that He so loves His people that His name is Jealous (Ex 34:14)!
God’s jealousy is a perfect, direct outworking of His perfect love—a godly jealousy (2 Cor 11:2). This is why, God, in all three persons is provoked when we’re pulled away.
- Our Lord Jesus can be provoked to jealousy when we partake of demon’s doctrine and actions (1 Cor 10:21-22).
- The Holy Spirit is provoked to grieve when we don’t walk worthy of our calling and redemption (Eph 4:30)
- God the Father can be provoked to wrath when the Spirit of grace is insulted, and the Son of God is trampled underfoot (Heb 10:31)
This is a difficult doctrine but, when reflecting on His infinite grace and love toward us, it totally makes sense.