Divine sovereignty

Definition

Divine sovereignty refers to the concept that God is the ultimate authority over all creation, governing the universe according to His will and purpose. This belief underscores the idea that everything happens under God's control and that His plans are ultimately unchangeable. Within the context of certain philosophical works and sermons, this concept emphasizes both God's power and the human responsibility to adhere to divine laws.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Divine sovereignty is a foundational belief in many Christian doctrines, asserting that God has absolute power over everything that exists.
2. Jonathan Edwards, a prominent theologian and preacher, emphasized divine sovereignty in his sermons, often linking it to themes of judgment and salvation.
3. Edwards argued that God's sovereignty is reflected in the natural order, where all events unfold according to His divine plan.
4. This concept also carries implications for human behavior, suggesting that individuals should live in accordance with God's will to align with divine authority.
5. The belief in divine sovereignty can lead to a sense of humility among believers, recognizing their limitations and the greatness of God's power.

Review Questions

• How does Jonathan Edwards illustrate the concept of divine sovereignty in his sermons?
  • Jonathan Edwards illustrates divine sovereignty by emphasizing that God holds ultimate authority over all aspects of life and the universe. In his sermons, he often discusses how every event occurs under God's watchful eye and aligns with His divine will. This perspective serves to instill both awe and fear in his listeners, urging them to recognize their dependence on God's grace and mercy.
• Discuss the relationship between divine sovereignty and predestination in Edwards' philosophy.
  • In Edwards' philosophy, divine sovereignty and predestination are closely linked concepts. He posits that God's sovereign will determines who will be saved or damned, reinforcing the idea that human beings have no control over their ultimate fate. This belief highlights the importance of relying on God's grace for salvation, as it is solely through His sovereign choice that individuals can attain eternal life.
• Evaluate how the understanding of divine sovereignty might influence ethical behavior according to Edwards' writings.
  • The understanding of divine sovereignty in Edwards' writings influences ethical behavior by promoting the idea that individuals must act according to God's laws and teachings. This belief fosters a moral framework where obedience to divine commands is paramount. As people recognize that their actions are ultimately subject to God's authority, they may feel compelled to live righteously, seeking alignment with His will to avoid judgment and seek grace.

Related terms

Predestination: The doctrine that God has eternally chosen those whom he intends to save, emphasizing His control over salvation and human destiny.

Theocracy: A system of government in which priests rule in the name of God or a god, reflecting the integration of religious authority with political governance.

Grace: The unmerited favor of God toward humanity, which is a central theme in many of Jonathan Edwards' sermons, highlighting the necessity of divine intervention for salvation.