Why does God manifest such mercy and long-suffering toward men?

Answer

"The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is long-suffering to
usward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance." 2 Peter 3: 9.

Through whom are repentance and forgiveness granted?
At the beginning of His ministry, what example did Jesus set for the benefit of His followers?
What does Christ declare Himself to be?
Who controls the distribution of the gifts of the Spirit?
When was the union of church and state formed from which the Papacy grew?
Because of disobedience, what experience came to Israel ?
What is implied in a knowledge of God and Jesus Christ?

Questions & Answers are from the book Bible Readings for the Home Circle