Definition and Importance

Active participation in God's plans refers to the conscious and deliberate involvement of believers in the unfolding of God's divine purposes on earth. This concept is rooted in the understanding that God, while sovereign, invites human cooperation in the execution of His will. The Bible presents numerous instances where individuals are called to engage actively in God's work, highlighting the importance of obedience, faith, and action in the life of a believer.

Biblical Foundations

1. The Call to Partnership: From the beginning, God has invited humanity to participate in His creation and redemptive work. In Genesis 1:28, God commands Adam and Eve to "be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it," indicating a partnership in stewardship over creation. This theme of partnership continues throughout Scripture, as God calls individuals to join Him in His plans.

2. Examples of Active Participation:
· Noah: In Genesis 6:13-22, God instructs Noah to build an ark in preparation for the flood. Noah's obedience and active participation in God's plan were crucial for the preservation of life.
· Abraham: In Genesis 12:1-4, God calls Abram to leave his country and go to a land He would show him. Abram's faith and willingness to act on God's promise exemplify active participation.
· Moses: In Exodus 3:10, God commissions Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. Moses' role required active engagement with God's plan for deliverance.

3. The Role of Faith and Obedience: Active participation in God's plans is often characterized by faith and obedience. Hebrews 11, known as the "faith chapter," recounts numerous examples of individuals who acted in faith, aligning themselves with God's purposes. James 2:17 states, "So too, faith by itself, if it does not result in action, is dead."

4. The Great Commission: In the New Testament, Jesus commands His disciples to actively participate in the spread of the Gospel. Matthew 28:19-20 records Jesus' words: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This commission underscores the believer's role in God's redemptive plan for humanity.

Theological Implications

1. Human Agency and Divine Sovereignty: The concept of active participation highlights the balance between human agency and divine sovereignty. While God is ultimately in control, He chooses to work through human agents to accomplish His purposes. This partnership does not diminish God's sovereignty but rather demonstrates His desire for relational engagement with His creation.

2. Spiritual Gifts and the Body of Christ: The New Testament teaches that believers are endowed with spiritual gifts for the purpose of building up the body of Christ. In 1 Corinthians 12:4-7 , Paul writes, "There are different gifts, but the same Spirit. There are different ministries, but the same Lord. There are different ways of working, but the same God works all things in all people." Active participation involves using these gifts to serve and edify the church.

3. Prayer and Intercession: Prayer is a vital aspect of participating in God's plans. Through prayer, believers align their hearts with God's will and intercede for His purposes to be fulfilled on earth. James 5:16 emphasizes the power of prayer: "The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail."

Practical Application

1. Discernment and Guidance: Believers are encouraged to seek God's guidance through prayer and Scripture to discern their role in His plans. Proverbs 3:5-6 advises, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."

2. Stewardship and Service: Active participation involves being good stewards of the resources, time, and talents God has entrusted to each believer. Colossians 3:23-24 instructs, "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward."

3. Community and Fellowship: Engaging in God's plans often requires collaboration with other believers. Hebrews 10:24-25 encourages believers to "spur one another on to love and good deeds" and to "not neglect meeting together." Community provides support, accountability, and encouragement in fulfilling God's purposes.