SS25-Q1-L8: Free Will, Love, and Divine Providence

SS25-Q1-L8-Free Will, Love, and Divine Providence

February 15-21, 2025


Sabbath Afternoon–February 15, 2025

Scripture Reading for the Week:

Luke 13:34; Jer. 32:17-20; Heb. 1:3; Deut. 6:4-5; Eph. 1:9-11; John 16:33 


Thought for Meditation

 In the work of redemption there is no compulsion. No external force is employed. Under the influence of the Spirit of God, man is left free to choose whom he will serve. In the change that takes place when the soul surrenders to Christ, there is the highest sense of freedom. The expulsion of sin is the act of the soul itself. True, we have no power to free ourselves from Satan's control; but when we desire to be set free from sin, and in our great need cry out for a power out of and above ourselves, the powers of the soul are imbued with the divine energy of the Holy Spirit, and they obey the dictates of the will in fulfilling the will of God.  {DA 466.4}  

The only condition upon which the freedom of man is possible is that of becoming one with Christ. "The truth shall make you free;" and Christ is the truth. Sin can triumph only by enfeebling the mind, and destroying the liberty of the soul. Subjection to God is restoration to one's self,--to the true glory and dignity of man. The divine law, to which we are brought into subjection, is "the law of liberty." James 2:12.  {DA 466.5}  


Memory Verse

These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.  {John 16:33}

a 14:4}
"This week's Sabbath School lesson helps us understand how God's love, free will, and divine providence work together in the great plan of salvation, allowing us to trust in His guidance while making responsible choices in our spiritual journey."

Expanded Explanation:

This lesson will help believers trust in God's sovereignty while embracing personal responsibility in their faith journey.



Outline of the Study

Sovereign God

Sunday-February 16, 2025

Is Everything that Happens God's Will? Our Sovereign God

Psalm 81:11-14; Isaiah 30:15-18; Isaiah 66:4; Luke 13:34.  


God Almighty

Monday, February 17, 2025

Is Anything Impossible to God? Pantokrator

Revelation 11:17; Jeremiah 32:17-20; Luke 1:37; Matthew 19:26; Hebrews 1:3;  2 Cor. 6:18; Rev. 1:8; Rev. 16:14; Rev. 19:15; Rev. 21:22; 2 Timothy 2:13; Matt. 26:39; 1 Tim. 2:4-6, Titus 2:11; 2 Pet. 3:9; Ezek. 33:11.


God of Freedom

Tuesday-February 18, 2025

Is God Responsible for our Actions? To Love God

 Matthew 22:37; Deuteronomy 6:4-5;  Hebrews 6:17-18; Titus 1:2; Numbers 23:19.


God of Predestination

Wednesday-February 19, 2025

Does God Determine who is Saved and Who is Not? God's Ideal and Remedial Wills

Ephesians 1:9-11;  Rom. 8:29-30; Luke 7:30; Luke 13:34; Ps. 81:11-14.          


Victorious God

Thursday-February 20, 2025

Does God have Control of this World? Christ has Overcome the World

 John 16:33.     


Friday-February 21, 2025

Insights and Further Study

Sovereign God

Sunday-February 16, 2025

Is Everything that Happens God's Will? Our Sovereign God

Psalm 81:11-14; Isaiah 30:15-18; Isaiah 66:4; Luke 13:34.  

“…Sovereign Lord,” they said, “you made the heavens and the earth and the sea, and everything in them” (Acts 4:24b)


Theme: The Sovereignty of God and Human Response

The sovereignty of God is a fundamental biblical truth that affirms His supreme authority over creation. However, does this mean that everything that happens is His will? This study explores how God’s sovereignty operates in harmony with human freedom, responsibility, and divine justice. While God’s will is perfect, Scripture reveals that He allows choices and consequences, demonstrating both His justice and mercy.


Purpose of This Lesson

The Sovereignty of God in Creation and Providence

The Bible affirms that God, as the Creator, is sovereign over all things. His will is perfect, and His purposes cannot be thwarted (Isaiah 46:9-10). Yet, Scripture also presents instances where God’s expressed desire for His people is rejected, leading to suffering and judgment.

Ellen G. White states:

"In His wisdom the Lord has seen fit to teach men, not by direct command but by giving them principles, that they may work out their own salvation with fear and trembling." (Education, p. 41)

God’s sovereignty does not mean He forces obedience. He appeals to humanity through His Word, His Spirit, and His providences, yet allows individuals to exercise free will.

The Shepherd’s Rod literature explains that while God’s ultimate plan cannot fail, He allows events to unfold based on moral choices:

"God is not the author of confusion and sin, but He allows rebellion that His justice and mercy might be fully revealed before the universe." (SRod, Vol. 1)


Human Resistance to God’s Will

Psalm 81:11-14 and Isaiah 30:15-18 show that Israel repeatedly rejected God’s guidance, leading to divine discipline. God longed to bless His people, but their unwillingness resulted in suffering.

Luke 13:34 captures Christ’s lament over Jerusalem:

"O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!"

This reveals a critical distinction in God’s sovereignty: while His overarching plan prevails, He does not override human will. His longing to save is often hindered by human stubbornness.


God’s Judgment Upon Persistent Rejection

Isaiah 66:4 warns that when people persist in rejecting God’s voice, He gives them over to their chosen delusions. This aligns with Romans 1:24-28, where Paul describes God "giving up" those who refuse to acknowledge Him.

Ellen G. White warns:

"God does not force the will or judgment of any. He takes no pleasure in a forced obedience, and to all He grants freedom of choice that they may render Him voluntary service." (Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 331)

The SRod literature emphasizes that God’s judgments are not arbitrary but the natural consequence of persistent rebellion:

"Those who spurn divine mercy will reap what they have sown, not because God delights in punishment, but because the wages of sin is death." (SRod, Vol. 2)


Trusting in God’s Sovereign Plan

Although God allows human choices, He remains in control of history. His plan for redemption is certain, and He will bring about His purposes despite human failures. Isaiah 46:10 assures us:

"My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please."

This truth calls believers to trust in God’s wisdom, even when circumstances seem chaotic. His sovereignty is not a cold, deterministic rule but a loving governance that seeks to save and restore.


Reflection Questions:

God’s sovereignty is not about dictating every detail of human life but about guiding history toward His ultimate purpose while allowing individuals to choose their response. The Bible makes it clear that while God’s will is perfect, not everything that happens is His direct will. He permits sin and rebellion for a time, but His justice and mercy will ultimately prevail. Our response should be one of trust, submission, and a willingness to align our lives with His divine purpose.

Consider the Following

SOVEREIGN GOD: Is everything that happens God's will?

❖ A sovereign is a monarch who exercises or possesses supreme and independent authority. The

sovereigns of this world, such as ancient absolutist kings or great dictators, enforced their will within

their territory.

❖ As the Creator, God is the supreme ruler of this world (Acts 4:24.) From this we can deduce that

everything that happens in this world is God's will. Is this conclusion true?

❖ Psalm 81 shows us something amazing: God is eager to do his will in this world, but we won't let him

(Ps. 81:10-16.)

❖ God wants us to have peace and rest, but we choose other paths (Is. 30:15-16; 66:4.) He loves us so

much that He wants to protect us from all evil, but He respects our freedom to reject it (Lk. 13:34.)


God Almighty

Monday, February 17, 2025

Is Anything Impossible to God? Pantokrator

Revelation 11:17; Jeremiah 32:17-20; Luke 1:37; Matthew 19:26; Hebrews 1:3;  2 Cor. 6:18; Rev. 1:8; Rev. 16:14; Rev. 19:15; Rev. 21:22; 2 Timothy 2:13; Matt. 26:39; 1 Tim. 2:4-6, Titus 2:11; 2 Pet. 3:9; Ezek. 33:11.

“For no word from God will ever fail” (Luke 1:37)


Theme: The Omnipotence of God – “Pantokrator” (God Almighty)

The title "Pantokrator" (παντοκράτωρ) in Greek, meaning "Almighty" or "All-Powerful," appears throughout Scripture as a declaration of God's absolute sovereignty and limitless power. The Bible repeatedly affirms that nothing is impossible for God (Luke 1:37), yet in His infinite wisdom, He chooses to act in ways that reflect both His justice and mercy. This study explores God’s omnipotence and its implications for believers.


Purpose of This Lesson

The Almighty God: Ruler Over All

The title "Pantokrator" appears frequently in the book of Revelation, signifying God’s sovereign power over the universe. Revelation 11:17 exclaims:

"We give thanks to You, Lord God Almighty, the One who is and who was, because You have taken Your great power and have begun to reign."

This declaration aligns with Jeremiah 32:17-20, where the prophet affirms that God's power created the heavens and the earth, and nothing is too difficult for Him. Hebrews 1:3 further underscores this truth, stating that Christ, "upholding all things by the word of His power," demonstrates the sustaining power of God over all creation.

Ellen G. White confirms God's omnipotence:

"God’s power is constantly exercised in upholding and using as His servants the things that He has made." (The Ministry of Healing, p. 416)

The Shepherd’s Rod literature also affirms God’s sovereignty:

"As Supreme Ruler of the universe, the Lord’s omnipotence is beyond comprehension, yet His dealings with men demonstrate both power and longsuffering, desiring that none should perish." (SRod, Vol. 2)


God’s Power to Save and Transform Lives

While God is omnipotent, He does not exercise His power arbitrarily. He desires all to be saved, yet He does not force salvation upon anyone. 2 Peter 3:9 declares:

"The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."

Similarly, Ezekiel 33:11 reveals God's compassionate heart:

"As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live."

Ellen G. White highlights that God's power is displayed in His ability to transform the most hardened sinner:

"The plan of redemption was laid to bring salvation within reach of sinners who would lay hold of it by faith. This work is the mighty power of God." (The Desire of Ages, p. 35)

The SRod literature also teaches that God’s power works in harmony with human choice:

"While He can do all things, He does not violate the freedom of the will. The exercise of faith is required for man to experience the fullness of divine power." (SRod, Vol. 1)


God’s Power and Human Free Will

Though nothing is impossible for God, He does not act against His character or His established laws of love and justice. 2 Timothy 2:13 states:

"If we are faithless, He remains faithful, for He cannot deny Himself."

God's power is limitless, yet He does not force salvation upon anyone. Matthew 26:39 records Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane:

"O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will."

This demonstrates that even though God can do anything, He does only what aligns with His perfect will and eternal purpose.


Faith in God’s Omnipotence – Our Response

Understanding God’s omnipotence should inspire unshakable faith. Matthew 19:26 declares:

"With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible."

This verse calls believers to trust in God’s ability to provide, protect, and fulfill His promises. Faith in God's power must be accompanied by obedience, as illustrated in Revelation 19:15, where Christ, the Almighty, executes judgment in righteousness.

Ellen G. White encourages believers to trust in God’s power:

"Nothing is apparently more helpless, yet really more invincible, than the soul that feels its nothingness and relies wholly on the merits of the Savior." (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 159)

The SRod literature further affirms:

"True faith recognizes God’s omnipotence while submitting to His will, knowing that He works all things according to His eternal purpose." (SRod, Vol. 2)


Reflection Questions:


Summary

God’s omnipotence is not only displayed in His ability to create and sustain the universe but also in His patience, mercy, and desire to save. While nothing is impossible for God, He works in harmony with His divine character and human free will. The call to believers is to place complete trust in His power, knowing that He is both mighty to save and just in His dealings.

God, the Almighty—Pantokrator—is sovereign, powerful, and faithful. Let us live in the assurance that He is in control, working all things according to His divine purpose.

Consider the Following

❖ God is all-powerful, meaning He can do anything He wants to do (Rev. 1:8; 11:17; Lk. 1:37.) He can do

things that defy natural laws, such as splitting the sea, stopping the sun, feeding thousands of people

with a few loaves of bread…

❖ God can do everything (excluding obvious paradoxes such as creating a stone so heavy that He Himself

cannot move it.) But that does not imply that He does everything He is capable of doing.

❖ The Bible presents several actions that are impossible for God because they are contrary to His own

character: denying oneself (2 Tim. 2:13); lying (Heb. 6:18; Titus 1:2); or being tempted by evil (James

1:13.)

❖ God could not free Jesus from the Cross and at the same time redeem us from sin. That is why He

chose to do what is most beneficial for us (Mt. 26:39.) God can save us all, but He does not want to

force us to be saved.


God of Freedom

Tuesday-February 18, 2025

Is God Responsible for our Actions? To Love God

 Matthew 22:37; Deuteronomy 6:4-5;  Hebrews 6:17-18; Titus 1:2; Numbers 23:19.

“Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ ” (Matthew 22:37)


Theme: The God of Freedom – A Love That Invites, Not Compels

Throughout Scripture, God is revealed as a Being of infinite love, justice, and freedom. While He is sovereign over all creation, He does not coerce obedience or love but invites His children into a relationship based on trust, faith, and free will. The question of whether God is responsible for human actions is fundamental to understanding His character. The Bible teaches that while God is omnipotent and unchanging (Hebrews 6:17-18), He has given humanity the sacred gift of free choice. His love does not force compliance but calls for a willing response of devotion.


Purpose of This Lesson

The Nature of Love: A Choice, Not a Demand

When Jesus summarized the greatest commandment, He emphasized that loving God must come from the heart, soul, and mind (Matthew 22:37). This command echoes Deuteronomy 6:4-5, where Moses called Israel to love the Lord wholeheartedly. Such love is not mechanical or imposed—it is a personal, voluntary response to God's goodness.

Ellen G. White explains:

“The exercise of force is contrary to the principles of God’s government; He desires only the service of love; and love cannot be commanded; it cannot be won by force or authority. Only by love is love awakened.” (The Desire of Ages, p. 22)

The Shepherd’s Rod literature further clarifies that true obedience to God is an outgrowth of love, not coercion:

“God’s call has always been an appeal to reason and choice. His warnings and invitations leave man free to accept or reject.” (SRod, Vol. 1)


God’s Unchanging Nature and Moral Government

God is both sovereign and just, yet He does not change His principles or override human free will. Hebrews 6:17-18 affirms that He does not lie, and Numbers 23:19 states:

“God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind.”

Because of His moral consistency, God does not arbitrarily interfere with human decisions. He sets before humanity the path of life and death, urging them to choose life (Deuteronomy 30:19). However, the choice remains theirs.

Ellen G. White writes:

"It is no arbitrary decree on the part of God that excludes the wicked from heaven; they are shut out by their own unfitness for its companionship." (Steps to Christ, p. 17)

The Shepherd’s Rod literature similarly warns that personal accountability is central to salvation:

"Men are free moral agents; therefore, they must choose whom they will serve. No man will be saved against his will." (SRod, Vol. 2)


God’s Desire for Voluntary Obedience

Titus 1:2 declares:

“In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began.”

God's promises are sure, and He has prepared eternal life for those who choose Him. Yet, He does not force salvation upon anyone. This principle was evident in Jesus’ ministry, where He extended invitations but never compelled belief.

Matthew 23:37 records Christ’s lament over Jerusalem:

“How often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing.”

The Shepherd’s Rod writings reinforce that salvation requires a personal choice:

"God's mercy is extended, but it must be accepted. His warnings are given, but they must be heeded." (SRod, Vol. 1)


Human Responsibility: Accountability Before a Just God

Because God has given free will, humanity is responsible for its own choices. Deuteronomy 6:5 calls for total devotion to God, and Matthew 22:37 reiterates that this love involves every aspect of one’s being.

Ellen G. White writes:

"Every soul is free to choose what power he will have to rule over him. None have fallen so low, none are so vile, but that they can find deliverance in Christ." (The Desire of Ages, p. 258)

This means that while God enables righteousness, individuals must actively seek Him and respond to His grace. The Shepherd’s Rod literature concurs:

"To be saved requires more than knowledge—it requires surrender, faith, and obedience." (SRod, Vol. 2)


Reflection Questions:


Summary

God, as the Supreme Ruler of the universe, governs in love and justice. While He is sovereign, He does not dictate human choices but allows each person to decide their eternal destiny. His call is one of love, not force—a call to willingly love Him with all our heart, soul, and mind.

Understanding God as a God of freedom helps believers realize that they are accountable for their actions. Yet, His grace is always available for those who turn to Him. May we respond to His love not out of fear or compulsion, but with a sincere and devoted heart.

Consider the Following

❖ God asks us to love Him, and to love others as well, because by doing this we keep the Law and avoid sin (Mt. 22:37-40; Ro. 13:8-10; 1 Jn. 3:4.)

❖ If we all loved as God wants us to love, we would no longer suffer many of the terrible consequences of sin. So why doesn't God force us to love Him and to love each other?

❖ If He forced us to love Him, where would be our freedom? Where would be our responsibility before Him? Besides, could we call love to this kind of forced love?

❖ Many things happen that God would like not to happen, but they do not depend on Him, but on our own choice. We are therefore responsible for our actions.

God of Predestination

Wednesday-February 19, 2025

Does God Determine who is Saved and Who is Not? God's Ideal and Remedial Wills

Ephesians 1:9-11;  Rom. 8:29-30; Luke 7:30; Luke 13:34; Ps. 81:11-14.       

“In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will” (Ephesians 1:11)

Theme: The God of Predestination – God's Ideal and Remedial Wills

The doctrine of predestination has been a subject of great debate throughout Christian history. Does God unilaterally determine who will be saved and who will be lost? Or does He, in His infinite wisdom, extend salvation to all, allowing human free will to determine their destiny? The biblical teaching on predestination is not about arbitrary selection but about God’s overarching ideal will—His original plan for humanity—and His remedial will, which accommodates human choices while still fulfilling His divine purpose.


Purpose of This Lesson

God's Foreknowledge and Human Free Will

The Apostle Paul, in Ephesians 1:9-11, speaks of God's predestined plan—a plan that was not based on coercion but on divine foreknowledge and purpose. Similarly, Romans 8:29-30 states:

“For those God foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son.”

This passage clarifies that predestination is not about determining individual salvation apart from human choice. Rather, it is about God's foreknowledge of who would accept His grace and be transformed into the likeness of Christ.

Ellen G. White affirms:

"The sinner may resist this love, may refuse to be drawn to Christ; but if he does not resist he will be drawn to Jesus." (Steps to Christ, p. 27)

The Shepherd’s Rod literature similarly states:

"God does not force the will of any. His plan is perfect, yet man has a choice to cooperate or resist." (SRod, Vol. 2)

This means that while God knows the outcome, He does not predetermine it in a way that removes personal responsibility.


God's Ideal Will vs. His Remedial Will

1 Timothy 2:4 declares:

“God desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.”

This reflects God’s ideal will—His perfect plan in which all would accept salvation. However, because of human rebellion, God’s remedial will accommodates free will while still fulfilling His ultimate purpose.

Luke 13:34 shows Christ’s lament over Jerusalem:

“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, but you were not willing!”

Here, Jesus expresses God’s desire for salvation, but the people rejected it. This is a clear indication that God does not predestine individuals to be lost, but rather allows them to choose their own destiny.

Ellen G. White further explains:

"It is the first step in apostasy to separate the will from the will of God. The will of man is aggressive, and is constantly striving for mastery." (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 513)

The Shepherd’s Rod literature agrees, stating:

"God's ultimate purpose is to bring all into harmony with His will, yet He allows men to determine their fate." (SRod, Vol. 1)

This shows that God, though sovereign, does not override human freedom.


The Rejection of God's Calling: A Personal Choice

Psalm 81:11-14 illustrates how Israel rejected God’s plan:

“But my people would not listen to me; Israel would not submit to me. So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts to follow their own devices.”

Similarly, Luke 7:30 states:

“But the Pharisees and the lawyers rejected the purpose of God for themselves.”

These texts confirm that while God has a plan for salvation, He does not force anyone to accept it. Instead, He permits people to follow their own choices, even if it leads to destruction.

Ellen G. White warns:

"It is not God that blinds the eyes of men or hardens their hearts. He sends them light to correct their errors, and to lead them in safe paths; it is by the rejection of this light that the eyes are blinded and the heart hardened." (Steps to Christ, p. 38)

The Shepherd’s Rod literature echoes this sentiment:

"When men reject the truth, God leaves them to their chosen delusion." (SRod, Vol. 1)

Thus, those who are lost are lost because of their own rejection of God's grace, not because God predestined them to be lost.


Reflection Questions:


Summary

God is not an arbitrary ruler who predestines some to salvation and others to damnation. He desires all to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4), but He does not force compliance. His foreknowledge does not negate human choice; rather, it affirms that He knows all things while still allowing human responsibility.

God’s ideal will was for all to dwell in eternal harmony with Him, but due to human rebellion, He now works within His remedial will—offering salvation freely, while allowing individuals to choose their eternal destiny.

The call is clear: “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts” (Hebrews 3:15). May we respond willingly to His call, knowing that our salvation rests not in predestination, but in our choice to accept His love.

Consider the Following

❖ Paul says that God predestined some to salvation (Rom. 8:29-30; Eph. 1:11,) from which it follows that He predestined others to destruction. Is this conclusion correct?

❖ The Greek term used by Paul and translated as “predestination” is proorizō, which means: to limit in advance; to propose a goal; and, figuratively, to predestine.

❖ God has planned our future and has set a goal for us to reach: eternal life. If we freely decide to accept this plan, He will providentially guide our story so that it can be fulfilled in us (Rom. 8:28.)

❖ Otherwise, He will do everything possible to change our minds. But in the end, He will respect our choice to be saved or lost.

Victorious God

Thursday-February 20, 2025

Does God have Control of this World? Christ has Overcome the World

 John 16:33. 

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33)


Theme: The Victorious God – Christ Has Overcome the World

The question of whether God has control of this world is one that has troubled believers for centuries. The presence of sin, suffering, and apparent chaos may lead some to doubt God's sovereignty. However, the Bible reassures us that God, through Christ, remains victorious and ultimately governs all things according to His divine purpose. Christ Himself declared:

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

This statement embodies the triumph of Christ over sin, Satan, and the forces of darkness. While we may face trials, we are assured that Christ’s victory is our victory. The Great Controversy between good and evil is not uncertain—God will prevail, and His people will share in that triumph.


Purpose of This Lesson

Christ’s Victory Over the World

John 16:33 is a profound declaration of Christ’s triumph. It acknowledges the reality of suffering in this world, yet it provides a greater assurance—victory through Him. Christ overcame the world by:

Ellen G. White confirms this victory:

"Satan saw that his disguise was torn away. His administration was laid open before the unfallen angels and before the heavenly universe. He had revealed himself as a murderer. By shedding the blood of the Son of God, he had uprooted himself from the sympathies of the heavenly beings." (The Desire of Ages, p. 761)

The Shepherd’s Rod literature states:

"The victory of Christ on Calvary secured the triumph of the saints, ensuring that sin and death will ultimately be eradicated." (SRod, Vol. 2)

Thus, though evil appears to reign for a time, its defeat is already sealed through Christ.


God’s Sovereign Control Over the Earth

Many wonder: If God has control, why does evil persist? The Bible teaches that God has given humanity free will and that Satan has been allowed a limited time to exercise his power. However, this does not mean God has lost control. His sovereignty remains unchallenged.

Psalm 103:19 declares:

“The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and His kingdom rules over all.”

Ellen G. White reassures:

"Amid the strife and tumult of nations, He that sitteth above the cherubim still guides the affairs of this earth." (Education, p. 173)

The Shepherd’s Rod literature explains:

"Though the kingdoms of earth rise and fall, the Almighty is directing His purpose to a final victory for His faithful." (SRod, Vol. 1)

This means that even when human history seems chaotic, God is in control, orchestrating His ultimate plan for redemption.


Faith in Troubled Times

Believers are not immune to trials, but Christ offers peace in the midst of tribulation. He assures us:

“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

This means that:

Ellen G. White writes:

"It is not His will that we should be weighed down with care. But our Lord does not deceive us. He does not say to us, 'Do not fear; there are no dangers in your path.' He knows there are trials and dangers, and He deals with us plainly." (Steps to Christ, p. 122)

The Shepherd’s Rod literature encourages:

"To those who stand firm, God gives the promise of deliverance and peace, even in the midst of a troubled world." (SRod, Vol. 2)

Therefore, while we experience difficulties, we are assured of victory in Christ.


Living as Overcomers in Christ

If Christ has overcome, how do we live in His victory?

Revelation 12:11 declares:

“They overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.”

Ellen G. White urges:

"We can overcome, fully, entirely. Jesus died to make a way of escape for us, that we might overcome every evil temper, every sin, every temptation." (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 144)

The Shepherd’s Rod literature confirms:

"The remnant shall stand victorious, for they are sealed by the truth and clothed with the righteousness of Christ." (SRod, Vol. 1)

Thus, the call is clear: Live victoriously in Christ!


Reflection Questions:


Summary 

The world is filled with tribulation, sin, and suffering, but Christ has already won the victory. Though Satan still works to deceive and destroy, his defeat is certain. God remains in control, guiding all things toward His final triumph.

Our calling is to live by faith in Christ’s victory, to walk in His peace, and to stand firm as overcomers. The battle may seem fierce, but victory is assured—because our God is victorious!

“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57)

Consider the Following

❖ If everything happened according to God's ideal will, there would never have been evil, only perfect happiness, love and harmony. For this plan to be effective, all created beings must freely accept that God's will is perfect and good.

❖ After the terrible experience of sin, humanity will fulfill the divine purpose because Jesus Christ has triumphed to give us the opportunity to fulfill God's purpose (Rev. 5:5.) But until that moment arrives, we can ask ourselves: Does God control this world?

❖ Although God controls this world, and acts and directs history to reach the end He desires, to a certain extent He allows Satan to take control of certain situations. That is why He warned us: “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33.)

Friday, February 21, 2025

Insights and Further Study

Throughout this week’s study, we have explored the nature of God as the Sovereign, Almighty, Freedom-Giving, Predestining, and Victorious God. These divine attributes reveal both His unparalleled majesty and His deep, personal love for humanity. Below are additional insights that reinforce the key lessons we have learned from Sunday to Thursday.

1. God’s Sovereignty (Sunday) – The Supreme Ruler of All

Key Thought: While God is in control, He allows human freedom and does not force His will upon us.

2. God Almighty (Monday) – Nothing is Impossible for Him

Key Thought: God's omnipotence is demonstrated in both creation and redemption.

3. God of Freedom (Tuesday) – Man’s Choices Matter

Key Thought: God created humanity with free will because love cannot be forced.

4. God of Predestination (Wednesday) – God’s Plan for Humanity

Key Thought: God predestines the plan of salvation, but individuals must choose to be part of it.

5. Victorious God (Thursday) – Christ Has Overcome the World

Key Thought: Christ’s victory is already won, and through Him, we can overcome sin and trials.

Reflection Questions for Personal Study:

Conclusion

This week’s study has revealed the greatness of God—His sovereignty, power, justice, love, and ultimate victory. Though the world is in turmoil, we have full assurance that God is in control, His plan will not fail, and His people will be victorious.

Final Thought from Ellen G. White:

“The work of redemption will be complete. In the place where sin abounded, God’s grace much more abounds. The earth itself, the very field that Satan claims as his, is to be made not only redeemed but exalted.” (Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 178)

Final Thought from The Shepherd’s Rod:

“The kingdom of God shall be established, and His people shall rejoice, for their redemption draweth nigh.” (SRod, Vol. 1)

Let us, therefore, stand firm in faith, trusting in the Sovereign, Almighty, Loving, and Victorious God, who reigns now and forever.

1. Free Will and Love in God’s Government

Ellen White emphasizes that God does not force the will, and true love must be freely given:

“It is no part of God’s plan to compel man to obey. Man was created a free moral agent. Like the inhabitants of all other worlds, he must be subjected to the test of obedience; but he is never brought into such a position that yielding to evil becomes a matter of necessity. No temptation or trial is permitted to come to him which he is unable to resist.”
— Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 331

“The law of love being the foundation of the government of God, the happiness of all intelligent beings depends upon their perfect accord with its great principles of righteousness. God desires from all His creatures the service of love—homage that springs from an intelligent appreciation of His character. He takes no pleasure in a forced obedience, and to all He grants freedom of will, that they may render Him voluntary service.”
— The Great Controversy, p. 493

2. Divine Providence in Human Life

Ellen White frequently speaks about God’s providential care while still respecting human free will:

“Our heavenly Father has a thousand ways to provide for us, of which we know nothing. Those who accept the one principle of making the service and honor of God supreme will find perplexities vanish and a plain path before their feet.”
— The Desire of Ages, p. 330

“To all who are reaching out to feel the guiding hand of God, the moment of greatest discouragement is the time when divine help is nearest. They will look back with thankfulness upon the darkest part of their way. ‘The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly.’ (2 Peter 2:9). From every temptation and every trial He will bring them forth with firmer faith and a richer experience.”
— The Desire of Ages, p. 528

3. Balancing Free Will with Divine Providence

Ellen White acknowledges that while God leads, He does not override human choice:

“In the work of redemption there is no compulsion. No external force is employed. Under the influence of the Spirit of God, man is left free to choose whom he will serve. In the change that takes place when the soul surrenders to Christ, there is the highest sense of freedom.”
— The Desire of Ages, p. 466