The concept of "The Whole Will of God" is a profound and multifaceted theme within Christian theology, encompassing God's sovereign plan, moral directives, and redemptive purposes for humanity. It is a subject that invites believers to seek a deeper understanding of God's intentions and desires as revealed through Scripture.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible presents the will of God as both a mystery and a revelation. In Ephesians 1:9-10 , the Apostle Paul writes, "And He made known to us the mystery of His will according to His good pleasure, which He purposed in Christ as a plan for the fullness of time, to bring all things in heaven and on earth together in Christ." This passage highlights the redemptive aspect of God's will, centered on the unification of all things under Christ.

God's Sovereign Will

The sovereign will of God refers to His ultimate control and authority over all creation. It is the aspect of God's will that is unchangeable and certain, encompassing His eternal decrees. Isaiah 46:10 declares, "I declare the end from the beginning, and ancient times from what is still to come. I say, 'My purpose will stand, and all My good pleasure I will accomplish.'" This verse underscores God's omnipotence and the certainty of His plans.

God's Moral Will

God's moral will is revealed through His commandments and teachings, guiding believers in righteous living. It is expressed in the moral laws and ethical instructions found throughout Scripture. In 1 Thessalonians 4:3 , Paul states, "For it is God’s will that you should be sanctified: You must abstain from sexual immorality." Here, God's will is clearly articulated as a call to holiness and moral purity.

God's Permissive Will

The permissive will of God involves His allowance of human free will and the resulting consequences. While God does not desire sin or suffering, He permits them within the framework of His sovereign plan. This aspect of God's will is evident in the account of Joseph, where his brothers' evil actions were used by God for a greater purpose. Genesis 50:20 records Joseph's words, "As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this—to preserve the lives of many people."

Discerning God's Will

Believers are encouraged to seek and discern God's will through prayer, Scripture, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Romans 12:2 exhorts, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God." This transformation involves aligning one's thoughts and actions with God's revealed will.

The Role of Jesus Christ

Jesus Christ embodies the fulfillment of God's will, serving as the ultimate example of obedience and submission. In John 6:38 , Jesus declares, "For I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but to do the will of Him who sent Me." Christ's life and sacrificial death are central to understanding God's redemptive will for humanity.

The Will of God in the Life of Believers

For Christians, living in accordance with God's will involves a commitment to follow Christ, love others, and participate in the mission of the Church. Ephesians 5:17 advises, "Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is." This understanding is cultivated through spiritual growth and active engagement in the faith community.

Conclusion

The whole will of God is a comprehensive and dynamic concept that encompasses His sovereign, moral, and permissive aspects. It calls believers to a life of obedience, discernment, and alignment with God's purposes as revealed in Scripture and through the life of Jesus Christ.