Theology 6: The Sovereignty of God
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The doctrine of the Sovereignty of God is sometimes avoided by Baptists because it often figures in the dark philosophical circles of Calvinistic discussion.
The doctrine of the Sovereignty of God is sometimes avoided by Baptists because it often figures in the dark philosophical circles of Calvinistic discussion.
However, this is no reason for us to by-pass such a blessing, or shirk our responsibility to determine what the Bible teaches.
However, this is no reason for us to by-pass such a blessing, or shirk our responsibility to determine what the Bible teaches.
Any discussion of God's sovereignty encompasses the following:
Any discussion of God's sovereignty encompasses the following:
The foreknowledge of God
The foreknowledge of God
The counsel of God
The counsel of God
The will of God
The will of God
The providence of God
The providence of God
Admittedly, these are some of the more difficult areas of doctrine-largely because we who are finite are attempting to comprehend the Infinite One. Nevertheless, as always, we must be guided by the Word of God.
Admittedly, these are some of the more difficult areas of doctrine-largely because we who are finite are attempting to comprehend the Infinite One. Nevertheless, as always, we must be guided by the Word of God.
I. The Sovereignty of God.
I. The Sovereignty of God.
It is without dispute that our God is absolutely sovereign. This is affirmed by both logic and Scripture:
It is without dispute that our God is absolutely sovereign. This is affirmed by both logic and Scripture:
A. God's Sovereignty Is Logical.
A. God's Sovereignty Is Logical.
"To declare God sovereign is to declare Him God." (1) If God were not sovereign, He would be finite-someone else would be master.
"To declare God sovereign is to declare Him God." (1) If God were not sovereign, He would be finite-someone else would be master.
B. God's Sovereignty Is Scriptural.
B. God's Sovereignty Is Scriptural.
The Bible declares God to be supreme (1 Chronicles 29:12; Psalm 47:2) and therefore sovereign (Psalm 115:3; Isaiah 14:24).
The Bible declares God to be supreme (1 Chronicles 29:12; Psalm 47:2) and therefore sovereign (Psalm 115:3; Isaiah 14:24).
12 Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.
3 But our God is in the heavens: He hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.
C. God's Sovereignty Is Harmonious.
C. God's Sovereignty Is Harmonious.
The Sovereignty of God does not transcend or overrule His attributes - it is in consonance with them. This fact is extremely important to keep in mind in order to avoid 'Calvinistic-confusion' in matters such as predestination and free will.
The Sovereignty of God does not transcend or overrule His attributes - it is in consonance with them. This fact is extremely important to keep in mind in order to avoid 'Calvinistic-confusion' in matters such as predestination and free will.
The king-pin of the Calvinist philosophy is the Sovereignty of God -the problem being that their concept of sovereignty leans towards capriciousness.
The king-pin of the Calvinist philosophy is the Sovereignty of God -the problem being that their concept of sovereignty leans towards capriciousness.
However, God never ignores His attributes just because He is sovereign and can do anything He wants to. The fact is He is always holy, He is always loving, He is always gracious and merciful, He is always longsuffering, He is always just, He is always immutable, He is always Truth -and, He is always Sovereign!
However, God never ignores His attributes just because He is sovereign and can do anything He wants to. The fact is He is always holy, He is always loving, He is always gracious and merciful, He is always longsuffering, He is always just, He is always immutable, He is always Truth -and, He is always Sovereign!
God exercises His absolute sovereignty in ways consistent with all His attributes. He is never arbitrary in what He does or decrees.
God exercises His absolute sovereignty in ways consistent with all His attributes. He is never arbitrary in what He does or decrees.
II. The Foreknowledge of God.
II. The Foreknowledge of God.
A. One of the most vexing questions mooted in theological circles deals with the reconciling of God's foreknowledge and His sovereignty.
A. One of the most vexing questions mooted in theological circles deals with the reconciling of God's foreknowledge and His sovereignty.
God's Foreknowledge Is Logical.
If God didn't know about some thing before it happened, He would not be God. The fact is, nothing ever occurs to God nothing surprises Him!
B. God's Foreknowledge Is Scriptural.
B. God's Foreknowledge Is Scriptural.
God is omniscient -therefore He knows "the end from the beginning"
God is omniscient -therefore He knows "the end from the beginning"
10 Declaring the end from the beginning, And from ancient times the things that are not yet done, Saying, My counsel shall stand, And I will do all my pleasure:
9 Behold, the former things are come to pass, And new things do I declare: Before they spring forth I tell you of them.
This simply means that every event in time, every thought, word, and deed of man, every sparrow that falls, every soul that is saved - everything -is known to God, and was known to God in eternity past.
The Bible gives several specific examples of God's foreknowledge:
This simply means that every event in time, every thought, word, and deed of man, every sparrow that falls, every soul that is saved - everything -is known to God, and was known to God in eternity past.
The Bible gives several specific examples of God's foreknowledge:
1. He Foreknew The Need To Send His Son To The Cross.
1. He Foreknew The Need To Send His Son To The Cross.
23 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:
2. He Foreknew All Who Would Receive His Son As Saviour.
2. He Foreknew All Who Would Receive His Son As Saviour.
29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
2 Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.
3. He Foreknew The History Of His Chosen People, Israel.
3. He Foreknew The History Of His Chosen People, Israel.
2 God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying,
C. God's Foreknowledge is Harmonious.
C. God's Foreknowledge is Harmonious.
The fact that God has known everything that has, is, and will take place in time from eternity past does not condition His sovereignty.
The fact that God has known everything that has, is, and will take place in time from eternity past does not condition His sovereignty.
Calvinist philosophy, which argues that since God knew a certain event would take place in time He must of necessity have ordained it to be -or else He could not be sovereign, is erroneous. This rationale, applied to the area of salvation states that since God knew back in eternity past who would be saved, it had to be because He ordained who would be saved. While this 'logic' may make sense to some, the ramifications in the area of sin are startling! i.e. Since God knew back in eternity past that sin would enter into the world, it had to be because He sovereignly ordained it to be so. (God is the Author of sin!)
Calvinist philosophy, which argues that since God knew a certain event would take place in time He must of necessity have ordained it to be -or else He could not be sovereign, is erroneous. This rationale, applied to the area of salvation states that since God knew back in eternity past who would be saved, it had to be because He ordained who would be saved. While this 'logic' may make sense to some, the ramifications in the area of sin are startling! i.e. Since God knew back in eternity past that sin would enter into the world, it had to be because He sovereignly ordained it to be so. (God is the Author of sin!)
This matter will be further considered at a later point in this lecture.
This matter will be further considered at a later point in this lecture.
D. God's Foreknowledge And His Eternal Purpose.
D. God's Foreknowledge And His Eternal Purpose.
The Bible speaks of God's 'eternal purpose'. A study of the relevant Scriptures shows this relates to God's plan of redemption through His Son. By His foreknowledge God knew in eternity past what man would do with his free will, and so determined the great Plan of Salvation.
The Bible speaks of God's 'eternal purpose'. A study of the relevant Scriptures shows this relates to God's plan of redemption through His Son. By His foreknowledge God knew in eternity past what man would do with his free will, and so determined the great Plan of Salvation.
His eternal purpose is centered in His Son -Ephesians 3:11 - and involves the following:
11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:
1. The Provision Of Redemption By Christ.
1. The Provision Of Redemption By Christ.
18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers;
19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:
20 Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,
8 And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.
2. The Promise Of Eternal Life Through Christ.
2. The Promise Of Eternal Life Through Christ.
2 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;
3. The Predestination Of Those In Christ.
3. The Predestination Of Those In Christ.
4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,
29 For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.
13 But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth:
14 Whereunto he called you by our gospel, to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Note: The subject of election and foreordination will be dealt with
more fully under the Doctrine of Salvation.
Note: The subject of election and foreordination will be dealt with
more fully under the Doctrine of Salvation.
4. The Purchase Of The Church Of Christ.
4. The Purchase Of The Church Of Christ.
3 How that by revelation he made known unto me the mystery; (as I wrote afore in few words,
4 Whereby, when ye read, ye may understand my knowledge in the mystery of Christ)
5 Which in other ages was not made known unto the sons of men, as it is now revealed unto his holy apostles and prophets by the Spirit;
6 That the Gentiles should be fellowheirs, and of the same body, and partakers of his promise in Christ by the gospel:
7 Whereof I was made a minister, according to the gift of the grace of God given unto me by the effectual working of his power.
8 Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;
9 And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:
10 To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God,
11 According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord:
5. The Prospect Of The Consummation By Christ.
5. The Prospect Of The Consummation By Christ.
24 The Lord of hosts hath sworn, saying, Surely as I have thought, so shall it come to pass; And as I have purposed, so shall it stand:
25 That I will break the Assyrian in my land, And upon my mountains tread him under foot: Then shall his yoke depart from off them, And his burden depart from off their shoulders.
26 This is the purpose that is purposed upon the whole earth: And this is the hand that is stretched out upon all the nations.
27 For the Lord of hosts hath purposed, and who shall disannul it? And his hand is stretched out, and who shall turn it back?
Like the sovereignty of God, His foreknowledge is always consistent with His other attributes - including His counsel.
Like the sovereignty of God, His foreknowledge is always consistent with His other attributes - including His counsel.
III. The Counsel of God.
III. The Counsel of God.
The Counsel of God is an aspect of His attribute of wisdom - we may define it as the expression of His infinite wisdom. The Counsel of God figures into the discussion on the sovereignty of God because in Calvinist thinking it is synonymous with His sovereign decree.
The Counsel of God is an aspect of His attribute of wisdom - we may define it as the expression of His infinite wisdom. The Counsel of God figures into the discussion on the sovereignty of God because in Calvinist thinking it is synonymous with His sovereign decree.
A. The Counsel Of God - Viewed Philosophically.
A. The Counsel Of God - Viewed Philosophically.
Based upon Scripture references such as Acts 2:23 and Acts 4:28, Calvinists see the Counsel of God as a foreordaining decree, predetermined in eternity past by a sovereign God.
Based upon Scripture references such as Acts 2:23 and Acts 4:28, Calvinists see the Counsel of God as a foreordaining decree, predetermined in eternity past by a sovereign God.
23 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:
28 For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done.
The Westminster Shorter Catechism states: "The decrees of God are His eternal purpose, according to the counsel of His will, whereby, for His own glory, he hath foreordained whatsoever comes to pass."
The Westminster Shorter Catechism states: "The decrees of God are His eternal purpose, according to the counsel of His will, whereby, for His own glory, he hath foreordained whatsoever comes to pass."
Bancroft says: "The counsel of God is that eternal scheme of all things adopted by the Divine mind which embraces all His original designs, including everything in the creative and redemptive program of God, and involving or embracing the free actions of men." (2)
Bancroft says: "The counsel of God is that eternal scheme of all things adopted by the Divine mind which embraces all His original designs, including everything in the creative and redemptive program of God, and involving or embracing the free actions of men." (2)
Thiessen states: "The decrees of God are His eternal purpose or purposes, based on His most wise and holy counsel, whereby He freely and unchangeably, for His own glory, ordained either efficaciously or permissively, all that comes to pass."
Thiessen states: "The decrees of God are His eternal purpose or purposes, based on His most wise and holy counsel, whereby He freely and unchangeably, for His own glory, ordained either efficaciously or permissively, all that comes to pass."
B. The Counsel Of God - Viewed Scripturally.
B. The Counsel Of God - Viewed Scripturally.
As always, we must let Scripture define and interpret Scripure. On this subject, the Word of God reveals some interesting facts (not speculations!):
As always, we must let Scripture define and interpret Scripure. On this subject, the Word of God reveals some interesting facts (not speculations!):
1. The Counsel Of God Is The Word Of God.
1. The Counsel Of God Is The Word Of God.
The following Scriptures show that we have the counsel of God in our hands: Psalm 33:11; 73:24; 107:11; Jeremiah 23:18; Micah 4:12;
The following Scriptures show that we have the counsel of God in our hands: Psalm 33:11; 73:24; 107:11; Jeremiah 23:18; Micah 4:12;
12 But they know not the thoughts of the Lord, Neither understand they his counsel: For he shall gather them as the sheaves into the floor.
Note the following:
Note the following:
A. We Have The "Mind Of Christ.”
A. We Have The "Mind Of Christ.”
16 For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.
B. We Have ALL Of God's Counsel.
B. We Have ALL Of God's Counsel.
27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.
C. We May Not Understand It Fully - Romans 11:33,34
Truly, God's wisdom is infinite.
See also: Isaiah 55:8,9.
C. We May Not Understand It Fully - Romans 11:33,34
Truly, God's wisdom is infinite.
See also: Isaiah 55:8,9.
33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
34 For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counseller?
8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, Neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord.
9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are my ways higher than your ways, And my thoughts than your thoughts.
D. We Can Reject It - Luke 7:30; Proverbs 1:24,25,30
D. We Can Reject It - Luke 7:30; Proverbs 1:24,25,30
30 But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him.
2. The Decrees Of God Are Stated In The Word Of God. These are:
2. The Decrees Of God Are Stated In The Word Of God. These are:
A. God's Decree To Provide Rain - Job 28:26
A. God's Decree To Provide Rain - Job 28:26
26 When he made a decree for the rain, And a way for the lightning of the thunder:
B. God's Decree Concerning The Lord Jesus Christ - Psalm 2:7
The decree to send His Son into the world to die for the sins of mankind is the only stated predetermined act of God. See: Acts 2:23; 4:28; I Peter 1:20; Luke 22:22a.
B. God's Decree Concerning The Lord Jesus Christ - Psalm 2:7
The decree to send His Son into the world to die for the sins of mankind is the only stated predetermined act of God. See: Acts 2:23; 4:28; I Peter 1:20; Luke 22:22a.
7 I will declare the decree: The Lord hath said unto me, Thou art my Son; This day have I begotten thee.
C. God's Decree To Establish The Heavens - Psalm 148:6
C. God's Decree To Establish The Heavens - Psalm 148:6
6 He hath also stablished them for ever and ever: He hath made a decree which shall not pass.
D. God’s Decree To Contain the Sea.
D. God’s Decree To Contain the Sea.
29 When he gave to the sea his decree, That the waters should not pass his commandment: When he appointed the foundations of the earth:
22 Fear ye not me? saith the Lord: will ye not tremble at my presence, which have placed the sand for the bound of the sea by a perpetual decree, that it cannot pass it: and though the waves thereof toss themselves, yet can they not prevail; though they roar, yet can they not pass over it?
E. God’s Decree To Deliver Israel.
E. God’s Decree To Deliver Israel.
22 For though thy people Israel be as the sand of the sea, Yet a remnant of them shall return: The consumption decreed shall overflow with righteousness.
F. God’s Decree Concerning King Nebuchadnezzar.
F. God’s Decree Concerning King Nebuchadnezzar.
24 This is the interpretation, O king, and this is the decree of the most High, which is come upon my lord the king:
There are no other decrees of God.
3. Other Things Are Determined by God.
3. Other Things Are Determined by God.
The Bible does speak of the Lord determining events. For example:
A. God has Determined Certain Prophetic Events.
24 Seventy weeks are determined upon thy people and upon thy holy city, to finish the transgression, and to make an end of sins, and to make reconciliation for iniquity, and to bring in everlasting righteousness, and to seal up the vision and prophecy, and to anoint the most Holy.
26 And after threescore and two weeks shall Messiah be cut off, but not for himself: and the people of the prince that shall come shall destroy the city and the sanctuary; and the end thereof shall be with a flood, and unto the end of the war desolations are determined.
27 And he shall confirm the covenant with many for one week: and in the midst of the week he shall cause the sacrifice and the oblation to cease, and for the overspreading of abominations he shall make it desolate, even until the consummation, and that determined shall be poured upon the desolate.
36 And the king shall do according to his will; and he shall exalt himself, and magnify himself above every god, and shall speak marvellous things against the God of gods, and shall prosper till the indignation be accomplished: for that that is determined shall be done.
B. God has determined The Days Of A Man.
B. God has determined The Days Of A Man.
5 Seeing his days are determined, The number of his months are with thee, Thou hast appointed his bounds that he cannot pass;
Some interpret this to mean that God has decreed the length of each man’s life. Obviously, God knows how long each man will live. However, since it is possible for a man to “die before his time” (Ecclesiastes 7:17), it appears this reference relates more to the “bounds” (boundary) set by God in Psalm 90:10.
17 Be not over much wicked, neither be thou foolish: why shouldest thou die before thy time?
10 The days of our years are threescore years and ten; And if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, Yet is their strength labour and sorrow; For it is soon cut off, and we fly away.
C. God Has Determined The Boundaries Of the Nations.
C. God Has Determined The Boundaries Of the Nations.
26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
8 When the most High divided to the nations their inheritance, When he separated the sons of Adam, He set the bounds of the people According to the number of the children of Israel.
Obviously, this determination by a sovereign God is not irresistibly enforced. Man has violated these boundaries — albeit to his own sorrow!
IV. The Will of God.
IV. The Will of God.
The expressed Will of God is the same thing as the Counsel of God. God has sovereignly determined to reveal Himself to man and His will is fully expressed through His Word - Deuteronomy 29:29.
The expressed Will of God is the same thing as the Counsel of God. God has sovereignly determined to reveal Himself to man and His will is fully expressed through His Word - Deuteronomy 29:29.
A. The Will Of God Is Revealed To Man.
A. The Will Of God Is Revealed To Man.
How do we know this?
How do we know this?
1. Because It Can Be Known.
1. Because It Can Be Known.
17 Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.
9 For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
12 Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.
2. Because It Can Be Done.
2. Because It Can Be Done.
God would not expect us to actually do His will without telling us what it is. The following Scriptures establish that God's will can be done: Psalm 40:8; 143:10; Matthew 6:10; 7:21; 12:50; Mark 3:35; John 7:17; Hebrews 10:36; I Peter 4:2; I John 2:17.
God would not expect us to actually do His will without telling us what it is. The following Scriptures establish that God's will can be done: Psalm 40:8; 143:10; Matthew 6:10; 7:21; 12:50; Mark 3:35; John 7:17; Hebrews 10:36; I Peter 4:2; I John 2:17.
8 I delight to do thy will, O my God: Yea, thy law is within my heart.
10 Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: Thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness.
3. Because It Can Be Proved.
3. Because It Can Be Proved.
2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
How is the mind renewed? How is the will of God proven? Through the knowledge of the Scriptures!
How is the mind renewed? How is the will of God proven? Through the knowledge of the Scriptures!
4. Because It Is Explicitly Stated. See: Thessalonians 4:3; 5:18; I Peter 2:15.
4. Because It Is Explicitly Stated. See: Thessalonians 4:3; 5:18; I Peter 2:15.
15 For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men:
The Word of God reveals numerous details about the will of God - both to the lost, and to the child of God.
The Word of God reveals numerous details about the will of God - both to the lost, and to the child of God.
B. Is There A "Secret" Will Of God?
B. Is There A "Secret" Will Of God?
If there is, then no man can be expected to do it.
If there is, then no man can be expected to do it.
However, there is no secret will of God whereby He sovereignly determines who will be saved and who will not be saved. This would be impossible because His revealed will clearly is:
However, there is no secret will of God whereby He sovereignly determines who will be saved and who will not be saved. This would be impossible because His revealed will clearly is:
1. That All Should Be Saved.
1. That All Should Be Saved.
9 Not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing.
14 Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.
4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
2. That All Who Believe On Christ WILL Be Saved. John 3:18. Compare this with Isaiah 45:19.
2. That All Who Believe On Christ WILL Be Saved. John 3:18. Compare this with Isaiah 45:19.
18 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.
19 I have not spoken in secret, in a dark place of the earth: I said not unto the seed of Jacob, Seek ye me in vain: I the Lord speak righteousness, I declare things that are right.
E. God never wills sin. See: Jeremiah 19:5.
E. God never wills sin. See: Jeremiah 19:5.
5 They have built also the high places of Baal, to burn their sons with fire for burnt offerings unto Baal, which I commanded not, nor spake it, neither came it into my mind:
C. Is There A "Permissive" Will Of God?
C. Is There A "Permissive" Will Of God?
Though this term is not found in Scripture, the concept of a permissive will (at least from a human perspective) is. This term is applied to situations where the express will of God (the 'perfect" will of God - Romans 12:2) is not followed, and yet where the Lord apparently permits certain things to proceed anyway.
Though this term is not found in Scripture, the concept of a permissive will (at least from a human perspective) is. This term is applied to situations where the express will of God (the 'perfect" will of God - Romans 12:2) is not followed, and yet where the Lord apparently permits certain things to proceed anyway.
For example:
For example:
1. Abraham Was Permitted To Go Down To Egypt.
1. Abraham Was Permitted To Go Down To Egypt.
See: Genesis 12:10 &c.
God's perfect will was for Abram to remain in the Land he was specifically called to. Nevertheless, God allowed him to step out of that will and go to Egypt (a picture of the world - Isaiah 31:1). In Egypt, Abram compounded his folly by having his wife lie.
See: Genesis 12:10 &c.
God's perfect will was for Abram to remain in the Land he was specifically called to. Nevertheless, God allowed him to step out of that will and go to Egypt (a picture of the world - Isaiah 31:1). In Egypt, Abram compounded his folly by having his wife lie.
2. Israel Was Permitted To Have A King:See: I Samuel 8:4-22.
2. Israel Was Permitted To Have A King:See: I Samuel 8:4-22.
Clearly, God's perfect will for His chosen people was a Theocracy, (Judges 2:16). However, God permitted them to have a king-something they later regretted (see: verses 11-18; 1 Samuel 14:52; I Kings 12:1,4,11).
Clearly, God's perfect will for His chosen people was a Theocracy, (Judges 2:16). However, God permitted them to have a king-something they later regretted (see: verses 11-18; 1 Samuel 14:52; I Kings 12:1,4,11).
3. John Mark Was Permitted To Return Home.
3. John Mark Was Permitted To Return Home.
See: Acts 13:5,13.
5 And when they were at Salamis, they preached the word of God in the synagogues of the Jews: and they had also John to their minister.
13 Now when Paul and his company loosed from Paphos, they came to Perga in Pamphylia: and John departing from them returned to Jerusalem.
God's perfect will was for the Gospel to be preached to "everyJohn Mark accompanied Saul and Bamabas on a church-planting venture into Asia-minor. For some reason (homesickness, fear, etc.) he quit the team and went home. Evidently the apostle Paul believed he had stepped out of God's will and had weakened the effectiveness of their mission. The issue later became a divisive matter of contention between he and Barnabas - Acts 15:36-40.
God's perfect will was for the Gospel to be preached to "everyJohn Mark accompanied Saul and Bamabas on a church-planting venture into Asia-minor. For some reason (homesickness, fear, etc.) he quit the team and went home. Evidently the apostle Paul believed he had stepped out of God's will and had weakened the effectiveness of their mission. The issue later became a divisive matter of contention between he and Barnabas - Acts 15:36-40.
This so-called permissive will of God really falls into the category of the Providence of God, because God invariably uses it to accomplish His perfect will anyway.
This so-called permissive will of God really falls into the category of the Providence of God, because God invariably uses it to accomplish His perfect will anyway.
We note that God used the adverse situation in Egypt to bring Abram back into the center of His perfect will (Genesis 12:20;
13:1,3).
We note that God used the adverse situation in Egypt to bring Abram back into the center of His perfect will (Genesis 12:20;
13:1,3).
20 And Pharaoh commanded his men concerning him: and they sent him away, and his wife, and all that he had.
We understand through the prophetic Word that God will use the throne of David to re-establish Israel under a true Theocracy (Isaiah 9:6,7; 43:15; Jeremiah 23:5,6).
We understand through the prophetic Word that God will use the throne of David to re-establish Israel under a true Theocracy (Isaiah 9:6,7; 43:15; Jeremiah 23:5,6).
God used the circumstances surrounding John Mark's departure to increase the spread of the Gospel. The sharp contention between Paul and Barnabas (an incident itself normally outside of God's perfect will - Proverbs 13:10; 18:18,19) resulted in two evangelistic teams instead of one taking the Gospel to the lost.
As for John Mark, the Lord evidently used this personal failure in his life to produce a trustworthy servant - the writer of the Gospel of Mark and a profitable ally of Paul II Timothy 4:11).
God used the circumstances surrounding John Mark's departure to increase the spread of the Gospel. The sharp contention between Paul and Barnabas (an incident itself normally outside of God's perfect will - Proverbs 13:10; 18:18,19) resulted in two evangelistic teams instead of one taking the Gospel to the lost.
As for John Mark, the Lord evidently used this personal failure in his life to produce a trustworthy servant - the writer of the Gospel of Mark and a profitable ally of Paul II Timothy 4:11).
No one should use the permissive will of God as an excuse for disobedience to the revealed will of God. No matter how acceptable the permissive will of God may be, it will never be as acceptable to God as His perfect will.
No one should use the permissive will of God as an excuse for disobedience to the revealed will of God. No matter how acceptable the permissive will of God may be, it will never be as acceptable to God as His perfect will.
From man's perspective, see: Psalm 106:15
From man's perspective, see: Psalm 106:15
15 And he gave them their request; But sent leanness into their soul.
From God's perspective, see: Numbers 14:18
From God's perspective, see: Numbers 14:18
18 The Lord is longsuffering, and of great mercy, forgiving iniquity and transgression, and by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation.
D. Is There A Purpose To God's Will?
D. Is There A Purpose To God's Will?
Some believe God's ultimate aim is the happiness or the holiness of man. Others think it is the establishment of His rule over all creation. While these aims may be encompassed in what God does, the single purpose of His will is His glory. Everything God does is designed ultimately to His glory-1 Chronicles 16:24,28,29; Psalm 115:1; Ephesians 1:6,12,14c; Philippians 2:11; / Timothy 1:17; 1 Peter 4:11; Jude 25. See also: Acts 12:23; Romans 1:21; 3:23.
Some believe God's ultimate aim is the happiness or the holiness of man. Others think it is the establishment of His rule over all creation. While these aims may be encompassed in what God does, the single purpose of His will is His glory. Everything God does is designed ultimately to His glory-1 Chronicles 16:24,28,29; Psalm 115:1; Ephesians 1:6,12,14c; Philippians 2:11; / Timothy 1:17; 1 Peter 4:11; Jude 25. See also: Acts 12:23; Romans 1:21; 3:23.
1. Creation Glorifies God.
1. Creation Glorifies God.
1 The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament sheweth his handywork.
2. Israel Glorifies God.
2. Israel Glorifies God.
11 For mine own sake, even for mine own sake, will I do it: For how should my name be polluted? And I will not give my glory unto another.
3 And said unto me, Thou art my servant, O Israel, in whom I will be glorified.
21 Thy people also shall be all righteous: They shall inherit the land for ever, The branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified.
3. Salvation Glorifies God.
3. Salvation Glorifies God.
23 And that he might make known the riches of his glory on the vessels of mercy, which he had afore prepared unto glory,
6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.
4. Believers Glorify God.
4. Believers Glorify God.
20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.
31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
6 That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
A. By their works.
A. By their works.
16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
B. By their fruit.
B. By their fruit.
8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
C. By their words.
C. By their words.
23 Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: And to him that ordereth his conversation aright Will I shew the salvation of God.
15 For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.
D. By their sufferings.
D. By their sufferings.
10 When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day.
12 That the name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.
14 If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified.
16 Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.
E. By their death.
E. By their death.
19 This spake he, signifying by what death he should glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him, Follow me.
5. Churches Glorify God.
5. Churches Glorify God.
21 Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.
6. The Millennium Will Glorify God.
6. The Millennium Will Glorify God.
9 All nations whom thou hast made shall come And worship before thee, O Lord; And shall glorify thy name.
7. Heaven Glorifies God.
7. Heaven Glorifies God.
A. It’s occupants.
A. It’s occupants.
9 And when those beasts give glory and honour and thanks to him that sat on the throne, who liveth for ever and ever,
11 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.
B. It’s city.
B. It’s city.
11 Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;
VII. The Providence of God.
VII. The Providence of God.
A. The Providence of God Defined.
A. The Providence of God Defined.
“Providence” comes from the Greek root, “pronia” which means “to provide.” It is the provision and care God exerts to accomplish His divine purpose. It is God’s bidding, control, direction, overruling, and permission in the affairs of His creation.
B. The Basis of God’s Providence.
B. The Basis of God’s Providence.
The providence of God extends from, and is in consonance with, the attributes of God.
The providence of God extends from, and is in consonance with, the attributes of God.
1. He is Wise. Therefore we may expect God to act rationally.
1. He is Wise. Therefore we may expect God to act rationally.
2. He is Good. Therefore He will have the interests of His creatures at heart.
2. He is Good. Therefore He will have the interests of His creatures at heart.
3. He is Omnipotent. Therefore we can be confident He has the ability to accomplish His purposes.
3. He is Omnipotent. Therefore we can be confident He has the ability to accomplish His purposes.
C. The Scriptural Proof Of God's Providence.
C. The Scriptural Proof Of God's Providence.
That God's sovereignty extends over all His creation is made abundantly clear in the Bible. For example:
That God's sovereignty extends over all His creation is made abundantly clear in the Bible. For example:
1. Providence in The Physical Realm. Psalm 103:19; 147:16-18; 1 Samuel 7:10; Job 9:5-7; 37:10: 38:12-35; Acts 14:17.
1. Providence in The Physical Realm. Psalm 103:19; 147:16-18; 1 Samuel 7:10; Job 9:5-7; 37:10: 38:12-35; Acts 14:17.
17 Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.
2. Providence In The Animal Kingdom. Job 12:10; Psalm 104:21,28,29; 147.9; Matthew 6:26; 10:29.
2. Providence In The Animal Kingdom. Job 12:10; Psalm 104:21,28,29; 147.9; Matthew 6:26; 10:29.
10 In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, And the breath of all mankind.
26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?
3. Providence In The Affairs Of The Nations Job 12:23; Psalm 22:28; 66:7; 75:6,7; Proverbs 21:1; Isaiah 10:5-7; Daniel 4:25b; Acts 17:26; Romans 13:1.
3. Providence In The Affairs Of The Nations Job 12:23; Psalm 22:28; 66:7; 75:6,7; Proverbs 21:1; Isaiah 10:5-7; Daniel 4:25b; Acts 17:26; Romans 13:1.
23 He increaseth the nations, and destroyeth them: He enlargeth the nations, and straiteneth them again.
28 For the kingdom is the Lord’s: And he is the governor among the nations.
4. Providence In The Preservation. Of His Word. Psalm 12:6,7; Matthew 24:35; etc.
4. Providence In The Preservation. Of His Word. Psalm 12:6,7; Matthew 24:35; etc.
6 The words of the Lord are pure words: As silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.
7 Thou shalt keep them, O Lord, Thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.
5. Providence Over All Individuals.
5. Providence Over All Individuals.
A. In Birth And Life: I Samuel 16:1; Esther 4:14; Psalm 139:16; Isaiah 45:5; Jeremiah 1:5; Galatians 1:15,16.
A. In Birth And Life: I Samuel 16:1; Esther 4:14; Psalm 139:16; Isaiah 45:5; Jeremiah 1:5; Galatians 1:15,16.
1 And the Lord said unto Samuel, How long wilt thou mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? fill thine horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse the Beth-lehemite: for I have provided me a king among his sons.
B. In The Course Of Man's Life: Matthew 10:30; Luke 1:52; Proverbs 16:1,33; I Samuel 2:6-8; Exodus 12:36.
B. In The Course Of Man's Life: Matthew 10:30; Luke 1:52; Proverbs 16:1,33; I Samuel 2:6-8; Exodus 12:36.
36 And the Lord gave the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they lent unto them such things as they required. And they spoiled the Egyptians.
C. In Needs: Psalm 4:8; 5:12; 63:8; 121:3; Romans 8:28; Philippians 4:19; Isaiah 64:4.
C. In Needs: Psalm 4:8; 5:12; 63:8; 121:3; Romans 8:28; Philippians 4:19; Isaiah 64:4.
4 For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, Neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, What he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him.
D. In Eternal Destiny: Psalm 73:24; 37:23,24; 11:6.
D. In Eternal Destiny: Psalm 73:24; 37:23,24; 11:6.
24 Thou shalt guide me with thy counsel, And afterward receive me to glory.
6. Providence Over The Actions Of Men.
6. Providence Over The Actions Of Men.
A. In General: Exodus 12:36; 1 Samuel 24:18; Proverbs 19:21;21:1; Jeremiah 10:23; Philippians 2:13.
A. In General: Exodus 12:36; 1 Samuel 24:18; Proverbs 19:21;21:1; Jeremiah 10:23; Philippians 2:13.
13 For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.
B. Sometimes, God Permits Sin: I Samuel 16:10; 24:1; II Thessalonians 2:11,12; II Chronicles 32:31; Psalm 81:12,13; Hosea 4:17; Acts 14:16; Romans 1:24,26,28.
B. Sometimes, God Permits Sin: I Samuel 16:10; 24:1; II Thessalonians 2:11,12; II Chronicles 32:31; Psalm 81:12,13; Hosea 4:17; Acts 14:16; Romans 1:24,26,28.
31 Howbeit in the business of the ambassadors of the princes of Babylon, who sent unto him to inquire of the wonder that was done in the land, God left him, to try him, that he might know all that was in his heart.
Note: This is only after opportunities for righteousness have been rejected.
Note: This is only after opportunities for righteousness have been rejected.
C. Sometimes, God Prevents Sin: Genesis 20:6; Psalm 19:13; Hosea 2:6.
C. Sometimes, God Prevents Sin: Genesis 20:6; Psalm 19:13; Hosea 2:6.
6 And God said unto him in a dream, Yea, I know that thou didst this in the integrity of thy heart; for I also withheld thee from sinning against me: therefore suffered I thee not to touch her.
D. Always, God Limits Sin: Job 1:12; Psalm 124:2,3; I Corinthians 10:13; Revelation 20:2,3.
D. Always, God Limits Sin: Job 1:12; Psalm 124:2,3; I Corinthians 10:13; Revelation 20:2,3.
12 And the Lord said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power; only upon himself put not forth thine hand. So Satan went forth from the presence of the Lord.
D. The Purpose Of The Providence Of God.
D. The Purpose Of The Providence Of God.
According to Romans 8:28, all things work together for GOOD. See also: Psalm 84:11.
According to Romans 8:28, all things work together for GOOD. See also: Psalm 84:11.
28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
11 For the Lord God is a sun and shield: The Lord will give grace and glory: No good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.
Even with the unsaved, God's providence is for good. See Acts 14:17.
Even with the unsaved, God's providence is for good. See Acts 14:17.
17 Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness.
Providential goodness to the lost has for its end their salvation. See:
Providential goodness to the lost has for its end their salvation. See:
4 Or despisest thou the riches of his goodness and forbearance and longsuffering; not knowing that the goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance?
The ultimate end of Providence is the glory of God. Isalah 48:11.
E. Theories Opposed By The Providence Of God.
E. Theories Opposed By The Providence Of God.
1. Naturalism. This view states that everything is governed by the laws of nature, and that man's happiness depends on his cooperating with these laws.
1. Naturalism. This view states that everything is governed by the laws of nature, and that man's happiness depends on his cooperating with these laws.
2. Fatalism. This view states that everything is determined by fate. Fatalists may call fate "God," (as does Islam), but such a "god" is arbitrary, non-moral, and impersonal.
2. Fatalism. This view states that everything is determined by fate. Fatalists may call fate "God," (as does Islam), but such a "god" is arbitrary, non-moral, and impersonal.
3. Pantheism. This view makes man part of "god," thus making God sinful, weak, and of corrupt morality.
3. Pantheism. This view makes man part of "god," thus making God sinful, weak, and of corrupt morality.
F. Difficulties Associated With The Providence Of God.
F. Difficulties Associated With The Providence Of God.
1. Does Providence Deny Human Freedom?
1. Does Providence Deny Human Freedom?
The providential workings of God do not limit God. Sometimes He allows man to do as he pleases; other times He restrains, or prevents man from doing what he desires; always God over-rules in ways to accomplish His glory.
The providential workings of God do not limit God. Sometimes He allows man to do as he pleases; other times He restrains, or prevents man from doing what he desires; always God over-rules in ways to accomplish His glory.
While we will never properly comprehend the ways of God, we know from Scripture that according to His foreknowledge, God achieves His sovereign purpose by whatever of the above methods He chooses.
While we will never properly comprehend the ways of God, we know from Scripture that according to His foreknowledge, God achieves His sovereign purpose by whatever of the above methods He chooses.
2. Does Providence Mean I Don't Have To Pray?
2. Does Providence Mean I Don't Have To Pray?
To say this would deny the many Scriptural exhortations to pray.
To say this would deny the many Scriptural exhortations to pray.
Evidently, there are some things God does only in answer to prayer.
Evidently, there are some things God does only in answer to prayer.
Again, we may not be able to fully understand the ways of God (that's because He is God!) -but we must by guided by Scripture.
Again, we may not be able to fully understand the ways of God (that's because He is God!) -but we must by guided by Scripture.
For example, it would be foolish to pray for the sun to rise (God's providence takes care of that!), but we would certainly need to pray for the sun not to set. (Joshua 10:12-14.)
For example, it would be foolish to pray for the sun to rise (God's providence takes care of that!), but we would certainly need to pray for the sun not to set. (Joshua 10:12-14.)
12 Then spake Joshua to the Lord in the day when the Lord delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and he said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; And thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon.
13 And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, Until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies. Is not this written in the book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, And hasted not to go down about a whole day.
14 And there was no day like that before it or after it, that the Lord hearkened unto the voice of a man: for the Lord fought for Israel.
A father will provide many good things for his child, whether the child asks for them or not - but he loves to be asked, and may not give some things until such time as he is asked.
A father will provide many good things for his child, whether the child asks for them or not - but he loves to be asked, and may not give some things until such time as he is asked.
VI. The Calvinist Quagmire.
VI. The Calvinist Quagmire.
Calvinist philosophy impales itself on the horns of a dilemma when it elevates the Sovereignty of God above His other attributes.
Calvinist philosophy impales itself on the horns of a dilemma when it elevates the Sovereignty of God above His other attributes.
The Calvinist logic goes something like this:
The Calvinist logic goes something like this:
God is Sovereign
God is Sovereign
God is Omniscient
God is Omniscient
God knows everything from the beginning
God knows everything from the beginning
Therefore God must have decreed everything from the beginning
Therefore God must have decreed everything from the beginning
Therefore God foreordains every thought, word, and deed of every man (Proverbs 16:1,9,33; 19:21; 20:24; 21:1; 29:26)
Therefore God foreordains every thought, word, and deed of every man (Proverbs 16:1,9,33; 19:21; 20:24; 21:1; 29:26)
A. The Calvinist Concept Of "Decrees"
A. The Calvinist Concept Of "Decrees"
Calvinist 'logic' refers to the decrees of God (or THE Decree, of which all decrees are but a part), teaching that God has decreed all things.
Calvinist 'logic' refers to the decrees of God (or THE Decree, of which all decrees are but a part), teaching that God has decreed all things.
A. J. Gordon said, “A universe without decrees would be as irrational and appalling as would be an express train during on in the darkness without headlight or engineer, and with no certainty that the next moment it might not plunge into the abyss."
A. J. Gordon said, “A universe without decrees would be as irrational and appalling as would be an express train during on in the darkness without headlight or engineer, and with no certainty that the next moment it might not plunge into the abyss."
"God foreknows all events as certainly future because he has decreed them and thus made them certainly future."
"God foreknows all events as certainly future because he has decreed them and thus made them certainly future."
"The decrees of God are His eternal purpose or purposes, based on His most wise and holy counsel, whereby He freely and unchangeably, for His own glory, ordained either efficaciously or permissively, all that comes to pass.”
"The decrees of God are His eternal purpose or purposes, based on His most wise and holy counsel, whereby He freely and unchangeably, for His own glory, ordained either efficaciously or permissively, all that comes to pass.”
Calvinists usually speak of the decrees of God in the following way:
Calvinists usually speak of the decrees of God in the following way:
1. God's Decrees Are Eternal
1. God's Decrees Are Eternal
They were not formulated in time, as human history progressed, but were made in eternity.
They were not formulated in time, as human history progressed, but were made in eternity.
2. God's Decrees Are Unalterable.
2. God's Decrees Are Unalterable.
They are sovereign.
They are sovereign.
3. God's Decrees Are Wise And Holy.
3. God's Decrees Are Wise And Holy.
This is because God is Wise and Holy. Because God is omniscient (all-knowing), He knows what is best. Because God is Holy, He cannot decree anything that is wrong.
This is because God is Wise and Holy. Because God is omniscient (all-knowing), He knows what is best. Because God is Holy, He cannot decree anything that is wrong.
4. God's Decrees Are Free.
4. God's Decrees Are Free.
The decrees of God did not originate out of necessity. God may have chosen to confine His activity with Himself in the Godhead. He was not influenced or bound-what God purposed, He purposed voluntarily according to His attributes.
The decrees of God did not originate out of necessity. God may have chosen to confine His activity with Himself in the Godhead. He was not influenced or bound-what God purposed, He purposed voluntarily according to His attributes.
5. God's Decrees May Be Efficacious Or Permissive.
5. God's Decrees May Be Efficacious Or Permissive.
An efficacious decree is one God determines to bring about. A permissive decree is one God determines to permit.
An efficacious decree is one God determines to bring about. A permissive decree is one God determines to permit.
As noted above, the Bible lists the actual decrees of God. They are not as the Calvinist asserts.
As noted above, the Bible lists the actual decrees of God. They are not as the Calvinist asserts.
B. Calvinist Logic Leads To Error.
B. Calvinist Logic Leads To Error.
If God decreed all things, as Calvinists assert, then He must have decreed sin! This matter has been a source of contention among Calvinists, who divide into three 'camps' over the issue of the fall (lapsis) of man. These opinions are:
If God decreed all things, as Calvinists assert, then He must have decreed sin! This matter has been a source of contention among Calvinists, who divide into three 'camps' over the issue of the fall (lapsis) of man. These opinions are:
1. Supralapsarianism.
1. Supralapsarianism.
This view holds that God decreed the fall of man. The supralapsarian order in the decree is:
This view holds that God decreed the fall of man. The supralapsarian order in the decree is:
a. God decreed the salvation of some and the damnation of others for the end of His own glory.
a. God decreed the salvation of some and the damnation of others for the end of His own glory.
b. God decreed, as a means to that end, to create those already elected or reprobated.
b. God decreed, as a means to that end, to create those already elected or reprobated.
c. God decreed the fall of man.
c. God decreed the fall of man.
d. God decreed the atonement for the elect.
d. God decreed the atonement for the elect.
e. God decreed salvation for the elect.
e. God decreed salvation for the elect.
This viewpoint makes God the Author of sin, and teaches that He created certain men so that He could damn them; consequently it is held by the minority of Calvinists. It is often referred to as hyper-Calvinism, no doubt to make mainstream Calvinism appear moderate. Nevertheless, it illustrates where philosophy and man's logic will take you.
This viewpoint makes God the Author of sin, and teaches that He created certain men so that He could damn them; consequently it is held by the minority of Calvinists. It is often referred to as hyper-Calvinism, no doubt to make mainstream Calvinism appear moderate. Nevertheless, it illustrates where philosophy and man's logic will take you.
2. Infralapsarianism.
2. Infralapsarianism.
The prefix infra means below. The order in the decree in this system is:
The prefix infra means below. The order in the decree in this system is:
a. God decreed to create man.
a. God decreed to create man.
b. God decreed the fall of man.
b. God decreed the fall of man.
c. God decreed election (salvation) and reprobation (damnation).
c. God decreed election (salvation) and reprobation (damnation).
d. God decreed the atonement for the elect.
d. God decreed the atonement for the elect.
e. God decreed salvation for the elect.
e. God decreed salvation for the elect.
This viewpoint is held by the majority of Calvinists. While it does not have God creating men in order to damn them, like all theories within the Augustinian-Calvinist theology, it teaches that some are predestined to salvation and others to damnation.
This viewpoint is held by the majority of Calvinists. While it does not have God creating men in order to damn them, like all theories within the Augustinian-Calvinist theology, it teaches that some are predestined to salvation and others to damnation.
3. Sublapsarianism.
3. Sublapsarianism.
This view, otherwise known as "Four-point Calvinism", has in the decree the following order:
This view, otherwise known as "Four-point Calvinism", has in the decree the following order:
a. God decreed to create.
a. God decreed to create.
b. God decreed the fall.
b. God decreed the fall.
c. God decreed the atonement for all men.
c. God decreed the atonement for all men.
d. God decreed election (salvation) and reprobation (damnation).
d. God decreed election (salvation) and reprobation (damnation).
e. God decreed salvation for the elect.
e. God decreed salvation for the elect.
In this scheme, reprobation is usually divided into two acts - first, Preterition (where God sovereignly passes by [i.e. didn't choose] the non-elect); second, Condemnation (where God later judicially punishes those He passed over for their sin).
In this scheme, reprobation is usually divided into two acts - first, Preterition (where God sovereignly passes by [i.e. didn't choose] the non-elect); second, Condemnation (where God later judicially punishes those He passed over for their sin).
C. The Scriptural Teaching.
C. The Scriptural Teaching.
The decrees of God actually stated in Scripture have already been listed.
The decrees of God actually stated in Scripture have already been listed.
The Bible does not mention anything of an eternal decree which foreordains every thought, word, and deed of every man in time.
The Bible does not mention anything of an eternal decree which foreordains every thought, word, and deed of every man in time.
More on this subject will be covered under the doctrines of Man, Sin, and Salvation. However, a few important Biblical truths are stated below.
More on this subject will be covered under the doctrines of Man, Sin, and Salvation. However, a few important Biblical truths are stated below.
1. God NEVER Decrees Wickedness. See: Isalah 10:1; Job 34:10; 36:23; Psalm 5:4.
1. God NEVER Decrees Wickedness. See: Isalah 10:1; Job 34:10; 36:23; Psalm 5:4.
The Bible does teach that God allows evil to happen (e.g. II Samuel
17:14; Nehemiah 13:18; Isaiah 45:7; Lamentations 3:38; Ezekiel
14:22; Daniel 9:14; Amos 3:6; etc.), but this kind of evil is judgment which is dispensed because of man's sin - Jeremiah 19:3-5.
The Bible does teach that God allows evil to happen (e.g. II Samuel
17:14; Nehemiah 13:18; Isaiah 45:7; Lamentations 3:38; Ezekiel
14:22; Daniel 9:14; Amos 3:6; etc.), but this kind of evil is judgment which is dispensed because of man's sin - Jeremiah 19:3-5.
If God decreed sin, He would deny Himself, II Timothy 2:13b. God is not the Author of sin -James 1:13,14 -for that would be inconsistent with His divine, holy nature.
If God decreed sin, He would deny Himself, II Timothy 2:13b. God is not the Author of sin -James 1:13,14 -for that would be inconsistent with His divine, holy nature.
13 Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man:
14 But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.
2. God Permitted Man To Be Tested.
2. God Permitted Man To Be Tested.
God permitted (not decreed) this, knowing before-time that man would fail and that sin would enter the universe.
God permitted (not decreed) this, knowing before-time that man would fail and that sin would enter the universe.
It was necessary for man to be tested in his innocent (neither sinful or holy) state because the relationship God desired with him was to be free.
It was necessary for man to be tested in his innocent (neither sinful or holy) state because the relationship God desired with him was to be free.
3. God Over-rules Sin For Good.
3. God Over-rules Sin For Good.
This fact must go hand in hand with the above, otherwise the entrance of sin into the world would have bested God. While God sometimes permits sin, He also can control its manifestation.
This fact must go hand in hand with the above, otherwise the entrance of sin into the world would have bested God. While God sometimes permits sin, He also can control its manifestation.
The following examples show this to be so: Genesis 50:20; Psalm 33:10,11; 76:10; Daniel 3:19-30; etc.
20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.
4. God Determined To Provide For Man's Salvation: Acts 2:23; 4:27,28; I Peter 1:20.
4. God Determined To Provide For Man's Salvation: Acts 2:23; 4:27,28; I Peter 1:20.
23 Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain:
As noted above, the atoning death of Jesus Christ was the only stated predetermined act of God .
5. God Chose (Elected) To Save All Who Trust Christ As Saviour:
As noted above, the atoning death of Jesus Christ was the only stated predetermined act of God .
5. God Chose (Elected) To Save All Who Trust Christ As Saviour:
a. God Seeks To Save All Men.
a. God Seeks To Save All Men.
God took the initiative in our salvation. See: Genesis 3:8,9; Isaiah 59:15,16; John 15:16; Romans 2:4; Titus 2:11.
God took the initiative in our salvation. See: Genesis 3:8,9; Isaiah 59:15,16; John 15:16; Romans 2:4; Titus 2:11.
8 And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden.
9 And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?
b. God Knows All Who Will Be Saved.
b. God Knows All Who Will Be Saved.
This is called "divine foreknowledge," and is predicated in the omniscience of God.
This is called "divine foreknowledge," and is predicated in the omniscience of God.
c. God Elected To Save All Who Will Trust Christ.
c. God Elected To Save All Who Will Trust Christ.
Election is based on the foreknowledge of God. Romans 8:29; I Peter 1:1,2. By election, we mean that sovereign act of God in grace, whereby from eternity past He chose in Christ all whom He foreknew would accept His Son.
Election is based on the foreknowledge of God. Romans 8:29; I Peter 1:1,2. By election, we mean that sovereign act of God in grace, whereby from eternity past He chose in Christ all whom He foreknew would accept His Son.
d. God Predestines All Who Trust Christ To Salvation And Its Benefits. John 1:12; 6:37; Ephesians 1:5; Romans 8:29.
d. God Predestines All Who Trust Christ To Salvation And Its Benefits. John 1:12; 6:37; Ephesians 1:5; Romans 8:29.
12 But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:
6. God Declares He Will Punish All Who Reject Christ Psalm 9:17; Isaiah 3:11; Revelation 20:11-15; etc.
6. God Declares He Will Punish All Who Reject Christ Psalm 9:17; Isaiah 3:11; Revelation 20:11-15; etc.
Men will be cast into the Lake of Fire, not because of a sovereign eternal decree predestinating them to such, but because they have wilfully rejected their only hope of salvation in Jesus Christ. In this sense, all sinners are (by virtue of their sin) predestined to Hell - until they receive Christ, whereupon they are then predestined to Heaven!
Men will be cast into the Lake of Fire, not because of a sovereign eternal decree predestinating them to such, but because they have wilfully rejected their only hope of salvation in Jesus Christ. In this sense, all sinners are (by virtue of their sin) predestined to Hell - until they receive Christ, whereupon they are then predestined to Heaven!
D. Conclusion.
D. Conclusion.
Calvinists and Bible-believers have one thing in common - none of them can fully comprehend the ways of an Infinite God. None can explain why God is as He is, does as He does, or permits as He permits.
Calvinists and Bible-believers have one thing in common - none of them can fully comprehend the ways of an Infinite God. None can explain why God is as He is, does as He does, or permits as He permits.
The difference between the two groups is that Calvinists resort to philosophical speculations for an explanation (Colossians 2:8), whereas Bible-believers stand on what God has revealed in His Word.
The difference between the two groups is that Calvinists resort to philosophical speculations for an explanation (Colossians 2:8), whereas Bible-believers stand on what God has revealed in His Word.
8 Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.
