In the sermon "Who's To Blame?", Mike McInnis addresses the doctrine of sin and divine sovereignty, arguing that while sin is a universal human struggle, it cannot be attributed to God. He explains that sin and its consequences are part of God's ordained plan, highlighting that individuals, like Judas Iscariot, are responsible for their wicked actions notwithstanding God's foreordination. Supporting Scripture includes Genesis and passages from the Psalms, emphasizing human depravity and God’s distinct holiness. The doctrinal significance lies in understanding that while God is sovereign over all events, He is not the author of sin; rather, mankind is accountable for their transgressions and must recognize their own sinful nature before the holiness of God.
Key Quotes
“Sin entered the world and subsequently the death which it caused according to the predestined purpose of Almighty God.”
“Any time a discussion of the absolute predestination of all things comes up, somebody always feels compelled to set forth the disclaimer, God is not the author of sin.”
“The only one to be blamed is the transgressor, who gladly embraces his own wickedness.”
“He who was totally without sin became sin for us. He who could not be blamed for sin took our blame and nailed it to His cross.”
The Bible teaches that sin entered the world through Adam's disobedience, according to God's predetermined purpose.
The Scripture reveals that sin originated with Adam's transgression, as noted in Romans 5:12 where it states, 'Therefore, just as sin came into the world through one man, and death through sin, and so death spread to all men because all sinned.' This event was not an accident but was part of God's sovereign plan. God, being the first cause of all things, ordained the existence of sin, which serves to showcase His holiness and justice. Despite this, it is critical to understand that God's ordination of sin does not make Him its author; humans are responsible for their actions, as demonstrated by the accountability of Judas Iscariot. Hebrews 4:15 reminds us that Jesus, while tempted, remained sinless, underscoring the difference between human corruption and divine purity.
Romans 5:12, Hebrews 4:15
God is not to blame for sin because the Bible clearly states He does not tempt or initiate sin; instead, sin arises from man's corrupt nature.
The notion that God could be blamed for sin contradicts His holy character. Scripture emphasizes that God is above reproach, as seen in James 1:13 which reads, 'Let no one say when he is tempted, 'I am being tempted by God,' for God cannot be tempted with evil, and he himself tempts no one.' This affirms that while God has sovereignly ordained all events, He does not cause sin. Instead, sin stems from humanity's fallen nature, as individuals willingly embrace their corrupt inclinations. The actions of individuals, like Judas, fulfill God's eternal purpose, yet they do not absolve them of their moral responsibilities. The contrast between God's purity and man's wickedness is vital to our understanding of grace and redemption.
James 1:13
Understanding predestination is vital as it highlights God's sovereignty and grace in salvation, showing that it is not based on human merit.
Predestination is a central tenet of Reformed theology and underscores God's sovereignty in the salvation of His elect. Ephesians 1:4-5 states, 'Even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ.' This reveals that God's choice of individuals for salvation is rooted in His divine will and grace, rather than any foreseen merit on their part. Recognizing this doctrine is essential for Christians, as it fosters genuine humility and gratitude, affirming that salvation is a work of God from start to finish, not a human achievement.
Ephesians 1:4-5
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