The doctrine of ‘The Sovereignty and Providence of God’ encompasses God’s supreme power and His purposeful guidance over all creation. While many Christian denominations affirm these attributes, interpretations can vary.
Doctrine of Sovereignty and Providence of God:
Sovereignty refers to God’s ultimate authority over all creation. Providence refers to God’s active involvement in maintaining and guiding the universe according to His will.
Scriptures Supporting Sovereignty and Providence:
- Romans 8:28 (KJV): “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.”
Interpretation: God orchestrates all events for the good of those who love Him. This speaks to His active involvement in creation and His guiding providence. - Job 42:2 (KJV): “I know that thou canst do every thing, and that no thought can be withholden from thee.”
Interpretation: Job acknowledges God’s sovereignty in doing whatever He pleases and fulfilling His divine purposes. - Matthew 6:25-34 (KJV): In this passage, Jesus encourages believers not to worry, as God provides for His creation.
Interpretation: God cares for creation and His people, demonstrating His providential care over all things. - Hebrews 1:3 (KJV): “Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;”
Interpretation: Christ is the active agent in sustaining the universe, showing God’s providential control. - Psalm 103:19 (KJV): “The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
Interpretation: God’s sovereignty extends over all creation; He rules and reigns with ultimate authority. - Acts 17:28 (KJV): “For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.”
Interpretation: God’s sovereignty is expressed in His provision and the sustenance of life in all creation. - Isaiah 46:10 (KJV): “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:”
Interpretation: God declares and fulfills His plan; no one can thwart His purposes. - Ephesians 1:11 (KJV): “In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will:”
Interpretation: God orchestrates all things according to His will, and His providence is evident in the predestination of believers.
Scriptures Questioning or Challenging Sovereignty and Providence:
- Ecclesiastes 3:11 (KJV): “He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.”
Interpretation: This verse suggests that God’s providence and purposes are beyond human comprehension. Even though God’s sovereignty is acknowledged, humans are left to grapple with the mystery of His ways, unable to fully understand the larger plan. - Ecclesiastes 8:14 (KJV): “There is a vanity which is done upon the earth; that there be just men, unto whom it happeneth according to the work of the wicked; again, there be wicked men, to whom it happeneth according to the work of the righteous: I said that this also is vanity.”
Interpretation: The Preacher of Ecclesiastes reflects on the apparent injustice in the world. It seems as if the righteous suffer while the wicked prosper, challenging the understanding of God’s providence and fairness in the world. - Ecclesiastes 9:11 (KJV): “I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.”
Interpretation: This verse questions the reliability of God’s providence when events seem random or happen by chance, as opposed to being directly governed by a sovereign will. - Ecclesiastes 4:1-3 (KJV): “So I returned, and considered all the oppressions that are done under the sun: and behold the tears of such as were oppressed, and they had no comforter; and on the side of their oppressors there was power; but they had no comforter. Wherefore I praised the dead which are already dead more than the living which are yet alive.”
Interpretation: The Preacher laments the injustice and oppression that occurs under God’s sovereignty, questioning how a good and just God could allow such suffering. It raises doubts about God’s providence in the face of injustice. - Job 7:20 (KJV): “I have sinned; what shall I do unto thee, O thou preserver of men? why hast thou set me as a mark against thee, so that I am a burden to myself?”
Interpretation: Job directly challenges God’s providence, asking why he has been singled out for suffering despite his perceived innocence. Job’s questioning highlights a struggle with the understanding of God’s role in human suffering. - Job 10:3 (KJV): “Is it good unto thee that thou shouldest oppress, that thou shouldest despise the work of thine hands, and shine upon the counsel of the wicked? dost thou have eyes of flesh? or seest thou as man seeth?”
Interpretation: Job questions God’s motives, wondering if God takes pleasure in oppression and why He seems to favor the wicked. This expresses a sense of frustration with God’s sovereignty, particularly in light of the apparent flourishing of evil. - Lamentations 3:18 (KJV): “And I said, My strength and my hope is perished from the LORD:”
Interpretation: In the midst of great suffering, the writer of Lamentations expresses despair, feeling as though God’s providence has failed him. This highlights a moment of questioning God’s control over the suffering and loss experienced. - Isaiah 45:9 (KJV): “Woe unto him that striveth with his Maker! Let the potsherd strive with the potsherds of the earth. Shall the clay say to him that fashioneth it, What makest thou? or thy work, He hath no hands?”
Interpretation: This verse implies that questioning God’s sovereignty is ultimately futile, as humans are like clay in the hands of the Creator. While this is a declaration of God’s ultimate authority, it can also be seen as challenging for those who question God’s control or providence in the world. - Habakkuk 1:13 (KJV): “Thou art of purer eyes than to behold evil, and canst not look on iniquity: wherefore lookest thou upon them that deal treacherously, and holdest thy tongue when the wicked devoureth the man that is more righteous than he?”
Interpretation: Habakkuk expresses frustration over God’s seeming tolerance of evil and injustice, asking why God allows the wicked to prosper while the righteous suffer. This is a direct challenge to God’s providence in a world filled with apparent injustice. - Psalm 10:1 (KJV): “Why standest thou afar off, O LORD? why hidest thou thyself in times of trouble?”
Interpretation: The psalmist questions God’s absence and apparent inaction during times of crisis, challenging God’s providence in times of distress and suffering. This reflects the tension between belief in God’s sovereignty and the perceived silence of God in the face of human suffering.
Conclusion
These scriptures reflect deep struggles with understanding God’s providence and sovereignty, particularly in the face of injustice, suffering, and perceived randomness. Many of these questions arise from human limitations in perceiving God’s larger plan and His reasons for allowing certain events to unfold, even when they appear contradictory to His goodness. The questioning of God’s rule is not seen as an outright rejection of His sovereignty but rather an expression of the difficulty in reconciling His control over a world filled with pain and injustice.ess. The questioning of God’s rule is not seen as an outright rejection of His sovereignty but rather an expression of the difficulty in reconciling His control over a world filled with pain and injustice.
Denominational Perspectives on Sovereignty and Providence:
- Roman Catholic Church: Position: The Roman Catholic Church holds that God is sovereign over all creation, yet His sovereignty does not negate human free will. Catholics believe that God’s providence and grace work together with human cooperation for salvation. God’s sovereignty is viewed in the light of His infinite goodness, where He allows human freedom but still works His will in the world. Scriptural Basis For:
- Psalm 103:19 (KJV): “The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
- Isaiah 46:10 (KJV): “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.”
- Ephesians 1:11 (KJV): “In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will.”
- Job 7:20 (KJV): “I have sinned; what shall I do unto thee, O thou preserver of men? why hast thou set me as a mark against thee, so that I am a burden to myself?”
- Lamentations 5:20 (KJV): “Wherefore dost thou forget us for ever, and forsake us so long time?”
- Eastern Orthodox Church: Position: The Eastern Orthodox Church affirms God’s sovereignty, but also emphasizes the mystery of how it works alongside human free will. God’s sovereignty is understood as actively sustaining the universe, yet His providence is deeply connected to the idea of synergy—the cooperation between God’s grace and human freedom. Scriptural Basis For:
- Isaiah 46:10 (KJV): “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.”
- Psalm 103:19 (KJV): “The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
- Romans 8:28 (KJV): “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.”
- Job 7:20 (KJV): “I have sinned; what shall I do unto thee, O thou preserver of men? why hast thou set me as a mark against thee, so that I am a burden to myself?”
- Lamentations 5:20 (KJV): “Wherefore dost thou forget us for ever, and forsake us so long time?”
- Evangelical Protestants: Position: Evangelical Protestants believe in the absolute sovereignty of God. However, there is diversity among Evangelicals regarding the relationship between divine sovereignty and human free will, especially regarding salvation. Some embrace Calvinism (believing in predestination), while others uphold Arminian views that emphasize free will. Scriptural Basis For:
- Romans 8:28 (KJV): “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.”
- Ephesians 1:11 (KJV): “In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will.”
- Psalm 103:19 (KJV): “The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
- Romans 9:19 (KJV): “Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?”
- Job 7:20 (KJV): “I have sinned; what shall I do unto thee, O thou preserver of men? why hast thou set me as a mark against thee, so that I am a burden to myself?”
- Baptists (Southern Baptist, Independent Baptist, etc.): Position: Baptists affirm the sovereignty of God in creation and salvation. However, many Baptist groups (especially the Southern Baptist Convention) hold to a Reformed view of sovereignty, which includes belief in predestination and election. In contrast, other Baptists (especially those with Arminian leanings) believe in free will regarding salvation. Scriptural Basis For:
- Romans 8:28 (KJV): “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.”
- Ephesians 1:11 (KJV): “In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will.”
- Isaiah 46:10 (KJV): “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.”
- Romans 9:19 (KJV): “Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?”
- Job 7:20 (KJV): “I have sinned; what shall I do unto thee, O thou preserver of men? why hast thou set me as a mark against thee, so that I am a burden to myself?”
- Methodists (United Methodist, AME, etc.): Position: Methodists believe in God’s sovereignty, particularly in God’s grace being offered to all people. However, Methodism also teaches that God allows human free will, and salvation depends on the individual’s response to God’s grace. Scriptural Basis For:
- Matthew 6:25-34 (KJV): Jesus encourages trust in God’s provision and care, highlighting God’s active sovereignty over creation.
- Romans 8:28 (KJV): “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.”
- Psalm 103:19 (KJV): “The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
- Habakkuk 1:13 (KJV): “Thou art of purer eyes than to behold evil, and canst not look on iniquity: wherefore lookest thou upon them that deal treacherously, and holdest thy tongue when the wicked devoureth the man that is more righteous than he?”
- Lamentations 5:20 (KJV): “Wherefore dost thou forget us for ever, and forsake us so long time?”
6. Lutherans (Missouri Synod, ELCA, etc.): Position: Lutherans believe in God’s absolute sovereignty, particularly through the doctrine of sola gratia (grace alone). They affirm that God is in control of salvation and all things, and that humans cooperate with grace rather than exercise free will to save themselves. Scriptural Basis For:
- Hebrews 1:3 (KJV): “Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high.”
- Psalm 103:19 (KJV): “The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
- Romans 8:28 (KJV): “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.”
Scriptural Basis Against:
- Romans 9:19 (KJV): “Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?”
- Lamentations 5:20 (KJV): “Wherefore dost thou forget us for ever, and forsake us so long time?”
Interpretation: Lutherans strongly emphasize God’s sovereign control over creation and salvation. They reject the idea of free will in salvation, instead teaching that salvation is entirely by God’s grace, and humans must respond in faith.
- Pentecostals (Assemblies of God, UPCI, etc.): Position: Pentecostals affirm God’s sovereignty in creation and salvation. They believe that God’s sovereignty is experienced through the Holy Spirit’s activity in the world, including miracles, healings, and empowerment for ministry. They also maintain that humans have free will to respond to God’s call. Scriptural Basis For:
- Matthew 6:25-34 (KJV): “Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?”
- Romans 8:28 (KJV): “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.”
- Acts 17:28 (KJV): “For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.”
- Job 7:20 (KJV): “I have sinned; what shall I do unto thee, O thou preserver of men? why hast thou set me as a mark against thee, so that I am a burden to myself?”
- Habakkuk 1:13 (KJV): “Thou art of purer eyes than to behold evil, and canst not look on iniquity: wherefore lookest thou upon them that deal treacherously, and holdest thy tongue when the wicked devoureth the man that is more righteous than he?”
- Jehovah’s Witnesses: Position: Jehovah’s Witnesses believe that God’s sovereignty is supreme and that His kingdom is the means by which God governs all things. They see God’s sovereignty as actively intervening in history, especially in preparing for the establishment of God’s Kingdom on Earth. Scriptural Basis For:
- Isaiah 46:10 (KJV): “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.”
- Psalm 103:19 (KJV): “The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
- Acts 17:28 (KJV): “For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.”
- Romans 9:19 (KJV): “Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?”
- Job 7:20 (KJV): “I have sinned; what shall I do unto thee, O thou preserver of men? why hast thou set me as a mark against thee, so that I am a burden to myself?”
- Mormonism (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – LDS): Position: Mormons believe in God’s sovereignty but also in the eternal progression of individuals. They assert that human free will plays a significant role in salvation, with individuals having the agency to choose between good and evil. Scriptural Basis For:
- Isaiah 46:10 (KJV): “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.”
- Psalm 103:19 (KJV): “The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
- Romans 8:28 (KJV): “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.”
- Romans 9:19 (KJV): “Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?”
- Job 7:20 (KJV): “I have sinned; what shall I do unto thee, O thou preserver of men? why hast thou set me as a mark against thee, so that I am a burden to myself?”
- Seventh-day Adventists:
Position: Seventh-day Adventists believe that God is sovereign over all creation, including the plan of salvation, but they emphasize the importance of human choice. They reject the idea of predestination, affirming that salvation is available to all through free will and God’s grace.
Scriptural Basis For:
- Romans 8:28 (KJV): “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.”
- Psalm 103:19 (KJV): “The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; and his kingdom ruleth over all.”
- Isaiah 46:10 (KJV): “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.”
Scriptural Basis Against:
- Romans 9:19 (KJV): “Thou wilt say then unto me, Why doth he yet find fault? For who hath resisted his will?”
- Job 7:20 (KJV): “I have sinned; what shall I do unto thee, O thou preserver of men? why hast thou set me as a mark against thee, so that I am a burden to myself?”
Interpretation: Seventh-day Adventists uphold that God’s sovereignty is expressed through His governance of the world and His plan for salvation. However, they emphasize that human beings are responsible for their choices, rejecting predestination.
Summary:
The sovereignty of God is universally affirmed across these denominations, but the understanding and implications of that sovereignty differ. Some emphasize free will, while others stress the predestined plan of God for humanity. Some believe in God’s active intervention in every aspect of life, while others see a more passive sovereignty that allows for human decision-making.