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NASB | Romans 1:18 ¶ For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, |
AMPLIFIED 2015 | Romans 1:18 ¶ For [God does not overlook sin and] the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who in their wickedness suppress and stifle the truth, |
Subject: God's plan |
Bible Note: Hi, Joe; I think there's a difference between what God allows and what he decrees. God didn't decree Satan's assaults on Job, though he did allow them. He didn't order Satan to destroy Job's family and wealth, in fact, he twice placed limits on what Satan could do to Job. It's true that God dangled Job in front of Satan like a fat worm in front of a largemouth bass, but it was still Satan's choice to strike. God knew Job's heart (and Satan's) and knew what the outcome would be - a public defeat for Satan, a restoration for Job, and some valuable lessons for us. Likewise, I don't think God decreed that Joseph's brothers would toss him into a well and sell him into slavery. He knew what was in their hearts and allowed it to happen. Again, he knew the outcome - the preservation of his chosen people, the advance of his plan for redemption, and more valuable lessons for us. I think the same can be said for 9/11. Already we have seen some blessings arise out of that crime: renewed respect and love for those who protect and serve us, the return (at least for a while) of God to public life, even the singing of "God Bless America" instead of "Take Me Out to the Ball Game". Admittedly, these things may not seem to be worth 6,000 lives, but God is still at work and we don't know what may yet grow out of it. But God surely decreed the death of his son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins. I don't think he caused Judas or Pilate to act as they did. He knew their hearts and allowed them to act from their own evil natures, unwittingly advancing God's plan. I don't claim to have God all figured out - although it may sometimes seem like I think have. ;-) But I think the difference is that in all these cases, other people or other circumstances could have brought about God's ends. But only Jesus could die on a cross to save us. Peace and grace, Steve |