Discipline Reaps Fruitage

23. (a) Why is Jehovah’s discipline well deserved? (b) What is involved in God’s disciplining of Israel?

²³ Although severe, and deservedly so, Jehovah’s discipline achieves the desired results, making mercy possible. “I​—I am the One that is wiping out your transgressions for my own sake, and your sins I shall not remember.

Isaiah 43:25

24. For what primary reason will Jehovah forgive his people​—both ancient and modern—​yet, what are his feelings toward them?

²⁴ Notice, though, that the resulting divine mercy will not simply be because of Israel’s contrition; it will be for Jehovah’s own sake. Yes, his name is involved. Were he to abandon Israel to permanent exile, his own name would be reproached by onlookers. (Psalm 79:9; Ezekiel 20:8-10) Likewise today, the salvation of humans is secondary to the sanctification of Jehovah’s name and the vindication of his sovereignty. Nonetheless, Jehovah loves those who accept his discipline without reservation and who worship him with spirit and truth. He demonstrates his love for these ones​—whether anointed or other sheep—​by wiping out their transgressions on the basis of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.​—John 3:16; 4:23, 24.