God's Purpose

God's Purpose

Scriptural References

• Proverbs 19:21
• Job 42:2
• Ephesians 1:11: States that God works all things according to the purpose of his will.
• Isaiah 46:10
• 2 Timothy 1:9: God saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began.
• Psalm 128:1
• Proverbs 16:4
• Romans 12:2
• Proverbs 16:9
• Psalm 33:11: The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of his heart to all generations.

Knowing God's Purpose

• We are meant to KNOW God's purpose, not merely think about it or guess.

Matthew Henry's Interpretation

• Whatever occurs that is good for the saints does their souls good.
• Every providence tends to the spiritual good of those who love God.
• This involves:
  • Breaking them off from sin.
  • Bringing them nearer to God.
  • Weaning them from the world.
  • Fitting them for heaven.

Romans 8:28

• "And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."
• Matthew Poole's commentary:
  • The calling of God is based on His own purpose and good pleasure.
  • It is not according to our worthiness but according to His purpose, as highlighted in 2 Timothy 1:9.

Cross References

• Genesis 50:20
• Jeremiah 29:11
• Ephesians 1:11
• 2 Corinthians 4:19
• James 1:12

Application and Examples

• God is able to work all things for our good.
• Consider the story of Joseph as an example of this principle in practice.
• Even suffering can be used for His good.
• What is good for us might not always feel good.
• Rest assured that it will ultimately be for our good.
• 1 Peter 1:6-7
• Philippians 1:6
• 1 Corinthians 2:9

Working Together for Good

• God works all things together for good, not in isolation.
• Nothing is wasted; everything is worked together.