The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum Gods will!

John,

Perhaps your consternation is due to a latent refusal or lack of true understanding of the seriousness and depth of sin, aka: the doctrine of total depravity? Let me put it to you oh so simply. The ONLY reason that anyone ever does a "good thing", whether it is relative (unregenerate actions) or actual (regenerate actions, which even they are woefully imperfect), is because the Spirit of God's influence which is in complete harmony with God's eternal decree. ALL things are of God's decree and for the ultimate purpose of bringing glory to Him. We may not fully or even partially comprehend how the works of evil can glorify God, but they do so infallibly, for all the works of God are perfect. (Deut 32:4)

This subject is not dissimilar to that of the matter of the Origin of Sin. The question ultimately arises, "How could a perfectly holy God allow, never mind decree, the fall of Satan and the myriad holy angels? And how could He likewise allow, never mind decree, the fall of man? The answer is always, "for His own glory"!

Now, returning to my first point..... God's decree for a Christian to sin is in no wise in violation of His "Prescriptive Will", for the disobedience done (aka: sin) is not forced upon an individual but rather it is done most freely and willingly. Should God withdraw His hand for even a moment of time, the entire world would be immediately transformed into chaos and utter destruction. For anyone to think that they would never to "this" or "that" is sheer pride and to give credit to themselves where there is no credit to own. The sin nature in man, even when it has been overtaken by a new created nature is incredibly powerful and wicked. The Lord simply uses that natural inclination of men's hearts to accomplish a greater good and ultimately again, for His own glory.

Let me finish this little excursus by referring you to a marvelous example in God's Word. I will always remember reading this passage with opened eyes, having read it many times before and paying it little attention. The passage is found in Genesis 20:1-7. And the key phrase I would have you meditate on is this one found in verse 6:

ENJOY!!

In His grace,