Definition and Concept

Cooperation with God refers to the active participation and collaboration of believers with the divine will and purposes of God. It involves aligning one's actions, thoughts, and intentions with God's commands and desires as revealed in Scripture. This cooperation is not merely passive submission but an active engagement in God's work on earth, reflecting a partnership between the Creator and His creation.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of cooperation with God is deeply rooted in the Bible, where human agency and divine sovereignty intersect. From the beginning, God invited humanity to participate in His creation. In Genesis 1:28 , God commands Adam and Eve, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and every creature that crawls upon the earth." This mandate illustrates the cooperative role humans are to play in stewarding creation.

Old Testament Examples

Throughout the Old Testament, figures such as Noah, Abraham, Moses, and the prophets exemplify cooperation with God. Noah's obedience in building the ark (Genesis 6:22) demonstrates trust and action in response to God's instructions. Abraham's willingness to leave his homeland (Genesis 12:1-4) and later to sacrifice Isaac (Genesis 22:1-18) highlights a profound cooperation rooted in faith.

Moses' leadership in delivering the Israelites from Egypt (Exodus 3:10) and his role in receiving the Law on Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:3-6) further illustrate how God works through individuals to accomplish His purposes. The prophets, such as Isaiah and Jeremiah, cooperated with God by delivering His messages to the people, often at great personal cost (Isaiah 6:8; Jeremiah 1:4-10).

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, Jesus Christ embodies the ultimate example of cooperation with God. His life and ministry were in perfect alignment with the Father's will. In John 5:19 , Jesus states, "Truly, truly, I tell you, the Son can do nothing by Himself, unless He sees the Father doing it. For whatever the Father does, the Son also does." This statement underscores the unity and cooperation between Jesus and the Father.

The apostles and early church also exemplify cooperation with God. The Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20) is a call for believers to partner with God in spreading the Gospel. The Apostle Paul frequently speaks of his ministry as a cooperative effort with God, as seen in 1 Corinthians 3:9 : "For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building."

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in enabling believers to cooperate with God. The Spirit empowers, guides, and equips Christians to fulfill God's purposes. In Acts 1:8 , Jesus promises, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." The indwelling of the Holy Spirit facilitates a dynamic partnership between God and His people.

Practical Implications

Cooperation with God involves a life of obedience, prayer, and discernment. Believers are called to seek God's will through Scripture and prayer, aligning their lives with His purposes. This cooperation is manifested in acts of service, evangelism, and the pursuit of justice and righteousness. It requires humility, recognizing that while God is sovereign, He invites human participation in His redemptive work.

Challenges and Rewards

While cooperation with God is a high calling, it is not without challenges. Believers may face opposition, persecution, and personal sacrifice. However, the rewards of cooperating with God are profound, including spiritual growth, a deeper relationship with God, and the joy of participating in His eternal purposes. As Philippians 2:13 reminds us, "For it is God who works in you to will and to act on behalf of His good purpose."