God’s control extends beyond human comprehension.

While it can be challenging for humans to fully grasp the complexities of divine sovereignty, it is important to recognize that God’s ways are beyond our comprehension.

In God’s meticulous control, there is room for human decision-making and rational thinking, as the writer wrote.

His influence does not hinder our ability to make choices, but rather serves as a guiding force that works in harmony with our conscious autonomy.

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The Paradox of Evil

God’s Use of Evil for His Purpose and Glory

One intriguing aspect of God’s control is His use of evil to accomplish His divine purposes.

Although God cannot perform evil Himself, He allows evil to exist in the world and uses it as a means to test and refine His people.

An example of this can be seen in the story of Job, where Satan is given permission by God to test Job’s faith. In this instance, God does not directly tempt Job but allows Satan to tempt him, ultimately revealing Job’s unwavering faith and trust in God.

It is crucial to understand that God’s use of evil does not make Him the author of evil.

Evil comes from the choices and actions of humans and spiritual forces that oppose God. Although God allows it to exist for a while, He ultimately uses it for His good and glory. This may be hard to understand, but it shows the incredible wisdom of God.

The Interplay between God’s Sovereignty and Human Will

A Complex Relationship

The relationship between God’s control and human free will is a complicated and nuanced subject. Critics argue that if God is in complete control, it undermines our rationality, relationships, and ability to make choices.

While God’s sovereignty is absolute, He has granted human beings the ability to think rationally, form relationships, and make choices.

These aspects of human experience are not abolished but rather influenced by God’s guiding hand. In the realm of salvation, God’s sovereignty and human will are not in opposition but rather work together.

God, in His sovereignty, elects and chooses those who will be saved, but He also invites all to partake in His grace and salvation. The invitation is extended to all, and those who respond in faith and repentance experience the transformative power of God’s love.

In conclusion, the meticulous control of God is a multifaceted aspect of His divine sovereignty. It is rooted in His perfect character, guided by His wisdom and love. While it may challenge human understanding, it does not negate human autonomy or rationality.

Understanding God’s use of evil and His interaction with human will can shed light on the deep and complex nature of divine sovereignty. It challenges us to think about the mysteries of God and how He works in our lives. By recognizing God’s meticulous control, we are invited to contemplate the profound ways in which He is involved in our daily existence.

Resources:

1. Frame, John M. The Doctrine of God. P&R Publishing, 2002.
2. Piper, John. “Are There Two Wills in God? Divine Election and God’s Desire for All to Be Saved.” Desiring God. Accessed November 2021. [https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/are-there-two-wills-in-god]
3. Grudem, Wayne. Systematic Theology: An Introduction to Biblical Doctrine. Zondervan, 2000.