The Characteristics of the Promise
INTRO
I. THE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE PROMISE
A. Assurance – "We know".
B. Agent – "God".
C. Action – "works all things together for good".
1) Extent: "all things"
2) Process: "works together"
3) End: "for good"
4) Examples of evil working for good:
a) Trials work for good.
Gen. 50:20
2 Cor. 12: 1-10
James 1:2-4
Job 1-2
b) Divine discipline works for good.
Deut. 8:15-16 –
Jer. 24:5-7 –
Jonah
Heb. 12:10-11
Prov. 17:3 The refining pot is for silver and the furnace for gold, But the LORD tests hearts.
Psa. 66:10 For Thou hast tried us, O God; Thou hast refined us as silver is refined.
Psa. 119:67 Before I was afflicted I went astray, But now I keep Thy word.
Psa. 119:71 It is good for me that I was afflicted, That I may learn Thy statutes.
c) Sin and evil work for good.
Peter’s failure
The crucifixion of Christ which was all according to God’s predetermined plan and predestined purpose (Acts 4:28).
II. THE BLESSINGS OF THE PROMISE
Comfort, peace, joy.
Thanksgiving to God.
Faith in the goodness of God
CONCLUSION