Christians believe that God is in control of all things, but we also believe that human beings make meaningful choices. But how can both be true? Let’s find out as we discuss the relationship between God’s plan and human actions.
God is in complete control over all things. This is what Christians mean when they call God “sovereign.” God’s sovereignty, or authority, is absolute. His plans for the world cannot be challenged or prevented. What God says will happen will happen.
And then there are our choices; the simple choices and the moral decisions we make every day. Does God’s authority contradict our ability to make decisions that matter and have an effect on the world?
The Bible says that both of these are true. In fact, it says that the Lord’s plans go forward through the choices of human beings as moral agents, including our freely chosen sinful actions!
Everything we do is what we want to do, while also being a part of God’s plan. They are what we want and what God wants.
The Bible shows us the perfect example of this in the death of Jesus. Jesus’ death on the cross was intended by God in order to save sinners. But Jesus was killed by people who wanted Him to die. They were responsible for their actions, even though they were a part of God’s plan.
The relationship between God’s plans and human action is a difficult one for us to understand, let alone accept and embrace. It’s a truth that is too big for us to fully grasp. And while it is difficult and creates confusion and sometimes frustration, it is also gives us hope: God is working all things for the good of those who love Him, and we can trust that none of the sinful choice of human beings will stop Him from doing exactly that.
And I was hoping for some clarification. At least I stand in agreement with everything that was written here.
For sure. This is one of the challenges of the mystery. We also went into greater detail on the subject on a recent episode of The Hero of the Story. You can check it out here: https://gospelproject.lifeway.com/humans-actions-god-plans-podcast/
I just became a Sunday School Superintendent…..I need some pointers/advice for how to be a leader in this area. I have been a Sunday School teacher before and currently…. in the past have led the Olympian club at a former church with my husband….but I am just not comfortable being “The Leader”……….our church is very small so that is a good thing. I still need advice.
We are currently using the Gospel Project Sunday School materials….I do like them since it is a “timeline” I never taught from that perspective before.
Where do I find the info for Kids if they have accepted Jesus? I haven’t located that and sometimes it refers to in the books.
I am not very tech savy……I can use the computer for basic stuff but all this digital stuff is a little much….I am more of a hands on type person….
I like getting this email and think I will ask my few leaders if they would like to get it as well.
Do you have any thoughts on how to inspire new, young leaders to step up to the plate? Our older adults who are teachers are getting weary and worn out. Should we just pray about it?
Leisa
Hi, Leisa. Some of your questions would be beyond the scope of what we can help with—I would encourage you to talk to your church leadership about much of what you are asking. You may be able to find some helpful info, though, on the Getting Started page of this site. It is accessed through the main drop down menu under Leader Resources.