Active Preservation refers to the divine act of God actively maintaining and sustaining His creation and His people. This concept is rooted in the belief that God is not a distant or passive observer but is intimately involved in the ongoing existence and well-being of the universe and His followers. The doctrine of Active Preservation emphasizes God's continuous care, provision, and protection.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible provides numerous passages that illustrate God's active role in preserving His creation. In Colossians 1:17, it is stated, "He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." This verse underscores the belief that Christ is central to the cohesion and maintenance of the universe, actively sustaining all that exists.

Psalm 121:3-4 offers reassurance of God's vigilant care: "He will not allow your foot to slip; your Protector will not slumber. Behold, the Protector of Israel will neither slumber nor sleep." This passage highlights God's constant watchfulness and His commitment to the safety and stability of His people.

God's Sustaining Power

The concept of Active Preservation is closely linked to God's omnipotence and sovereignty. Hebrews 1:3 declares, "The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His nature, upholding all things by His powerful word." This verse affirms that Christ, as the divine Logos, is actively involved in sustaining the universe through His authoritative word.

In Acts 17:28, the Apostle Paul speaks to the Athenians, saying, "For in Him we live and move and have our being." This statement reflects the belief that human existence is entirely dependent on God's sustaining power, emphasizing that life itself is a testament to His active preservation.

Preservation of the Saints

Active Preservation also extends to the spiritual realm, particularly concerning the doctrine of the perseverance of the saints. This doctrine asserts that God actively preserves the faith of believers, ensuring their ultimate salvation. In John 10:28-29, Jesus assures His followers, "I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one can snatch them out of My hand. My Father who has given them to Me is greater than all. No one can snatch them out of the Father’s hand."

This promise of eternal security is a cornerstone of the belief in Active Preservation, highlighting God's unwavering commitment to the spiritual well-being of His people.

Divine Provision and Protection

Throughout Scripture, God's active preservation is also evident in His provision and protection. In Matthew 6:26, Jesus teaches, "Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns—and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" This passage illustrates God's attentive care for His creation, assuring believers of His provision for their needs.

Psalm 91:11-12 further emphasizes God's protective role: "For He will command His angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways. They will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone." This imagery of angelic guardianship reflects the belief in God's active involvement in safeguarding His people from harm.

Conclusion

The doctrine of Active Preservation is a profound testament to God's ongoing involvement in the world. Through His sustaining power, provision, and protection, God actively maintains the universe and ensures the spiritual and physical well-being of His people. This belief offers comfort and assurance to believers, affirming that they are continually upheld by the divine hand of God.