The concept of divine purpose in conflict is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, where God uses conflicts, both internal and external, to fulfill His sovereign will and to shape the character of His people. This entry explores how God orchestrates and utilizes conflict to achieve His divine purposes, as revealed in Scripture.

Old Testament Examples

1. Joseph and His Brothers: The account of Joseph, found in Genesis 37-50, is a profound example of divine purpose in conflict. Joseph's brothers, driven by jealousy, sold him into slavery. Despite the apparent evil, God used this conflict to position Joseph in Egypt, where he would eventually save his family from famine. Joseph himself acknowledges God's hand in the situation, saying, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50:20).

2. Israel's Enemies: Throughout the history of Israel, God often used surrounding nations to discipline His people and bring them back to Himself. In Judges, the Israelites repeatedly fall into sin, and God allows them to be oppressed by their enemies. However, He raises up judges to deliver them, demonstrating His purpose in using conflict to restore His people to righteousness (Judges 2:16-19).

3. David and Saul: The conflict between David and King Saul illustrates how God uses personal enmity to prepare David for kingship. Despite Saul's attempts to kill him, David learns to trust in God's timing and sovereignty. David's refusal to harm Saul, even when given the opportunity, reflects his understanding of God's purpose in the conflict (1 Samuel 24:10-12).

New Testament Examples

1. Jesus and the Pharisees: The Gospels frequently depict the conflict between Jesus and the religious leaders of His time. This opposition ultimately leads to Jesus' crucifixion, which, according to divine purpose, becomes the means of salvation for humanity. Jesus' death and resurrection fulfill the prophecies and demonstrate God's redemptive plan through conflict (John 11:49-52).

2. Paul's Persecutions: The Apostle Paul faced numerous conflicts, including persecution, imprisonment, and opposition from false teachers. In 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, Paul reveals that God's power is made perfect in weakness, and he embraces his hardships as opportunities for Christ's strength to be displayed. These conflicts serve to spread the Gospel and strengthen the early church.

3. Early Church Persecution: The persecution of the early church, as seen in Acts, serves to spread the Gospel beyond Jerusalem. The stoning of Stephen and the subsequent scattering of believers lead to the evangelization of Samaria and beyond (Acts 8:1-4). This demonstrates how God uses conflict to advance His kingdom.

Theological Insights

The Bible teaches that God is sovereign over all events, including conflicts. Romans 8:28 assures believers that "in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose" . This includes conflicts, which God uses to refine faith, develop perseverance, and accomplish His greater purposes.

James 1:2-4 encourages believers to "consider it pure joy... whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance" . This perspective highlights the transformative power of conflict in the believer's life, aligning with God's divine purpose.

Conclusion

While conflict is often seen as negative, the Bible reveals that God can use it to fulfill His divine purposes. Through the examples of Joseph, David, Jesus, Paul, and the early church, we see that God is at work in the midst of conflict, shaping His people and advancing His kingdom.