Topical Encyclopedia
Sovereignty of GodThe sovereignty of God is a fundamental doctrine that underscores His supreme authority and control over all creation. It affirms that God is the ultimate ruler, possessing absolute power and authority over the universe. This concept is woven throughout the Scriptures, emphasizing that nothing occurs outside of God's will or permission.
In the Old Testament, God's sovereignty is evident in His creation and governance of the world.
Genesis 1:1 declares, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." This foundational verse establishes God as the Creator, who brought everything into existence by His command.
Psalm 115:3 further affirms, "Our God is in heaven; He does as He pleases," highlighting His unrestricted freedom to act according to His divine purpose.
The sovereignty of God is also manifest in His providential care and guidance of human history.
Proverbs 21:1 states, "The king’s heart is a waterway in the hand of the LORD; He directs it where He pleases." This illustrates that even the decisions of earthly rulers are under God's control. Similarly,
Daniel 4:35 proclaims, "All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as He pleases with the army of heaven and the peoples of the earth. There is no one who can restrain His hand or say to Him, ‘What have You done?’"
In the New Testament, the sovereignty of God is further revealed through the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Ephesians 1:11 declares, "In Him we were also chosen as God’s own, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything by the counsel of His will." This passage underscores that God's sovereign plan encompasses all things, including the redemption of humanity through Christ.
Creativity of GodGod's creativity is a testament to His infinite wisdom and power, as seen in the intricate design and beauty of the universe. The Bible begins with a profound display of God's creative work.
Genesis 1:31 states, "And God saw all that He had made, and it was very good." This declaration reflects the perfection and intentionality of God's creation.
The Psalms frequently celebrate God's creative acts.
Psalm 19:1 proclaims, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." This verse highlights how creation itself is a testament to God's majesty and creative genius. Similarly,
Psalm 104:24 exclaims, "How many are Your works, O LORD! In wisdom You made them all; the earth is full of Your creatures."
In the New Testament, the creativity of God is also evident in the new creation brought about through Christ.
2 Corinthians 5:17 states, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" This transformation reflects God's creative power in the spiritual realm, renewing and restoring individuals through faith in Jesus.
The book of Revelation provides a glimpse of God's ultimate creative work in the new heavens and new earth.
Revelation 21:5 declares, "He who was seated on the throne said, 'Behold, I make all things new.'" This promise of a renewed creation underscores God's ongoing creative activity and His sovereign plan to restore all things to their intended glory.
In summary, the sovereignty and creativity of God are central themes in the Bible, revealing His unparalleled authority and artistic mastery over all creation. These attributes inspire awe and worship, inviting believers to trust in His perfect will and to marvel at the beauty of His handiwork.