Topical Encyclopedia
Sovereignty of GodThe sovereignty of God is a foundational doctrine in Christian theology, affirming that God is the supreme authority and all things are under His control. This concept is woven throughout the entirety of Scripture, emphasizing God's ultimate power and authority over creation, history, and the lives of individuals.
In the Old Testament, God's sovereignty is evident in His creation and sustenance of the universe.
Genesis 1:1 declares, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." This act of creation underscores God's authority over all that exists. Furthermore,
Psalm 115:3 states, "Our God is in heaven; He does as He pleases," highlighting His freedom to act according to His will.
The sovereignty of God is also demonstrated in His governance over nations and rulers.
Proverbs 21:1 affirms, "The king’s heart is a waterway in the hand of the LORD; He directs it where He pleases." This verse illustrates that even the decisions of earthly rulers are subject to God's divine direction.
In the New Testament, the sovereignty of God is further revealed through the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Colossians 1:16-17 proclaims, "For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. All things were created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." This passage emphasizes Christ's preeminence and sustaining power over all creation.
God's InitiativeGod's initiative refers to His proactive engagement in the world and in the lives of individuals. It is the divine action that precedes human response, demonstrating God's grace and purpose in His dealings with humanity.
The initiative of God is first seen in His calling of individuals for His purposes. In
Genesis 12:1-3 , God calls Abram, saying, "Go from your country, your kindred, and your father’s house to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you." This call marks the beginning of God's covenant relationship with Abram and his descendants, initiated solely by God's sovereign choice.
In the New Testament, God's initiative is most profoundly displayed in the incarnation of Jesus Christ.
John 3:16 declares, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." This act of sending His Son into the world is the ultimate expression of God's initiative, providing salvation to humanity.
Moreover, God's initiative is evident in the work of the Holy Spirit. In
John 16:13 , Jesus promises, "But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all truth." The Holy Spirit's role in guiding, convicting, and empowering believers is a testament to God's active involvement in the lives of His people.
Throughout Scripture, God's sovereignty and initiative are intertwined, revealing a God who is both in control and intimately involved with His creation. These attributes assure believers of God's faithfulness and His ultimate plan for redemption and restoration.