The Divine Mystery: How God is in Control While You are Free | J.I. Packer скачать в хорошем качестве

The Divine Mystery: How God is in Control While You are Free | J.I. Packer

"Dr. J.I. Packer defines the providence of God as the unceasing exercise of divine energy whereby God sustains all creatures, actively participates in all events, and directs all things to their appointed ends. This rule is analogous to a manager’s total control but is infinite, unlimited, and morally perfect. Packer emphasizes the theological mystery that God’s absolute sovereignty coexists with human freedom; humans are not robots but self-determining agents who make voluntary choices, yet God fully overrules these actions. To explain this, Packer points to the ""logical grammar"" of Scripture, which requires holding two complementary truths simultaneously: God ordains events, yet humans are responsible for their actions. Biblical examples, such as Joseph’s enslavement and the crucifixion of Jesus, demonstrate that while humans may intend evil, God simultaneously uses those specific events to accomplish His saving purposes. Consequently, God is not the author of sin but permits it—allowing individuals to go their own way—while ensuring it ultimately serves His good plans. This doctrine excludes pantheism, deism, fatalism, and dualism, affirming that Satan acts only within limits set by God. regarding prayer, Packer teaches that God ordains prayer as the means to bestow blessings. However, God reserves the right to deny specific requests—much like a parent denying a dangerous toy—to provide something better suited to His wisdom. Furthermore, God often employs delays to test a believer's seriousness and develop spiritual perseverance. "