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.