Brandan Kraft examines Romans 8:28 and related passages to establish that God's sovereignty encompasses literally all things—not merely some things or only good things—including evil, suffering, and death, as affirmed by Proverbs 16:4, Isaiah 45:7, and Ephesians 1:11. For believers in Christ, this doctrine of divine providence means every circumstance, past, present, and future has been purposefully ordained by God for their ultimate good and sanctification, transforming them into Christ's likeness while advancing God's glory. This understanding of God's exhaustive predestination provides assurance and peace, enabling Christians to be thankful in all circumstances, knowing that even trials and afflictions serve their eternal benefit as adopted heirs in God's kingdom.
What does the Bible say about God's purpose in all things?
The Bible teaches that God causes all things to work together for good for His elect, according to His divine purpose (Romans 8:28).
In a broader context, scriptures like Ephesians 1:11 highlight that all things are predestined by God, underscoring His sovereignty in the affairs of the world. Proverbs 16:4 reinforces this by stating that the Lord made all things for Himself, demonstrating that nothing escapes His divine intent. For those who trust in Christ, all events, including trials and tribulations, contribute to their growth and sanctification, forming a vital part of His grand design. Thus, believers can find comfort and assurance in the knowledge that everything in their lives serves a higher purpose aligned with God's will.
Romans 8:28, Ephesians 1:11, Proverbs 16:4
How do we know God's sovereignty is true?
Scripture consistently affirms God's sovereignty, especially through verses emphasizing predestination and divine authority over all creation (Ephesians 1:11, Isaiah 45:7).
Moreover, passages such as Romans 11:36 declare that all things are from Him, through Him, and to Him, reinforcing that God's sovereignty encompasses every event and decision. This comprehensive control ensures that believers can trust that even what seems adverse or challenging has a place within His greater plan. Collectively, such scriptural references not only confirm God's sovereignty but reassure believers that they are under His watchful care, contributing to their peace and reliance on His promises.
Ephesians 1:11, Isaiah 45:7, Romans 11:36
Why is understanding God's providence important for Christians?
Understanding God's providence helps Christians see His purpose in all circumstances, leading to increased trust and peace in Him (Romans 8:28).
Additionally, recognizing God's providential hand in all aspects of life fosters gratitude and dependence on Him. When believers realize that their difficulties, as well as their joys, are ordained by God, they are more inclined to seek His glory in every decision and experience. This understanding not only alleviates fear and anxiety about the future but also cultivates a deeper relationship with God, as His sovereignty invites believers to rely entirely on Him and His grace. Thus, comprehending divine providence can transform how Christians engage with the world and appreciate God's ongoing involvement in their lives.
Romans 8:28
And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. - Romans 8:28, (NASB)
When I search the scriptures with my handy bible software for the phrase "all things", two hundred and three (203) results are returned! The Scriptures have A LOT to say about the “all things.” The word “all” is a very important word. Webster’s dictionary defines it as the whole, the entire, the total amount, every part. And every word is constrained by context through which it is used. The phrase “all the red balloons” doesn’t mean every balloon, but it means every single red one. And the phrase, “all the balloons” means every single balloon, including the red ones and the green ones, and every single balloon of every color. This is an elementary grammar lesson, but people, even adults, often fail to use proper grammar when reading and interpreting the scriptures.
And so when I read the words “all things” in this passage, I have to understand that it doesn’t mean “some things.” It doesn’t mean “most things.” And it doesn’t mean “only the good things.” No, “all things” means “all things!” And here are a few things the Lord tells us about His “all things.”
“The LORD hath made all things for himself: yea, even the wicked for the day of evil.” (Proverbs 16:4)
Nothing happens in time that was not predestinated by God from before the foundation of the world (Ephesians 1:11). And everything is according to His purpose. God brings about all things, including evil, in time by His providence (Isaiah 45:7; Romans 11:36). There is no such thing as an accident. Nothing has been left to chance, an impersonal “fate”, or what the man on the street calls “luck.” “The LORD has made all things for Himself, even the wicked!” This tells me that even our salvation in Christ was for God. And it also tells me that those who are condemned to hell, they too were for God. All things are of God. (2 Corinthians 5:18).
“For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God.” (2 Corinthians 4:15).
Do you believe and rest in the Lord Jesus Christ for all of your salvation? If so, then you can know that as one of God’s elect, every single thing, past, present, and future, it’s been purposed by God for your sake. It’s been purposed for your good so that you might enjoy the abundant grace of God which is entirely for His glory. Nothing that ever happens can ever truly harm you (Proverbs 12:21). Not even the kryptonite of sin can destroy your soul as our Lord drank down the penalty for it like water and extinguished it for you on the cross. And He is now even working all things to work together for your eternal good. It is with this knowledge that Christ's sheep learn to have peace and assurance in Christ.
“Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are your’s” (1 Corinthians 3:21).
Everything is yours according to His purpose. Christ owns all things and He has given them to you. Use them as needed for your comfort and pleasure remembering that as heirs to Christ’s kingdom these things are yours to enjoy. Be thankful in all events and circumstances. Seek the Lord’s glory in every decision you make. And remember that all the events of your life, and even your sicknesses and your eventual bodily death, these things are designed to mold you and make you like Christ because you are in Him. You are His and He is God's. (1 Corinthians 3:23). And He is God’s Beloved, through which you are accepted to the praise and glory of His grace. (Ephesians 1:6)
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