Bible Study

Don't just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Genesis 50:15-21, Romans 8:18-30.

Does everything happen for a reason? Whose reason? Can we trust it?

In a life filled with uncertainty, the Bible gives robust answers instead of vague sentiments. Scripture both tells us and shows us the glorious promise of God's Providence. What is God's providence?

His "purposeful sovereignty"- John Piper, Providence (Crossway, 2020)
His working all things together for good - Romans 8:28
His taking what was meant for evil and using it for blessing - Gen 50:20

Heidelberg Catechism 1563
"God's providence is His almighty and ever present power, whereby, as with His hand, He still upholds heaven and earth and all creatures, and so governs them that leaf and blade, rain and drought, fruitful and barren years, food and drink, health and sickness, riches and poverty, indeed, all things, come not by chance but by His fatherly hand."

Lillias Trotter - “Take the very hardest thing in your life - the place of difficulty, outward or inward, and expect God to triumph gloriously in that very spot. Just there He can bring your soul into blossom.”

The mystery and tension: “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs that God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know— this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed by the hands of lawless men.” (Acts 2:22–23 ESV)

Do you think everything happens for a reason? Is this a helpful statement? Why or why not?
Job said this: “Shall we accept good from God, and not trouble?” (Job 2:10 NIV11). What do you think of his question in light of this sermon?
Describe the tension between God's Providence and human choice. Where is that mystery put on display in Scripture?
In what ways has God's Providence given you comfort and peace?

Do you have a question about today’s sermon? Email Randy Forrester (RForrester@StAndrews.Church).

Park Circle :: Phillip Wilson :: Living Hope

St. Andrew's ChurchBy St Andrew's ChurchSep 24, 2023