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Natural Law
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeNatural laws, such as the law of gravity, are phenomena not of human origin or governance, proven to always occur under certain conditions. These cause-and-effect principles govern much of our lives, operating continuously whether we are aware of them or choose to ignore them. Like gravity, which exists apart from human legislation and cannot be ignored without risk, these laws are not subject to human vote or regulation. We must comply with them, or we suffer the consequences. God's laws are similarly not of human origin and are beyond human control, always in force. A man may pretend they do not exist, but he will still reap the consequences for transgressing them. Natural laws, whether governing falling apples or human relationships, can be seen as harsh or restrictive if one opposes them, or as benevolent guides to help us live with excellence and longevity, reflecting the way God Himself lives.
The Covenants, Grace, and Law (Part Seventeen)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughIn the exploration of the multifaceted use of the word "law" by Paul, one notable application is in reference to natural law. Paul employs the term "law" in Romans 2 to signify the will of God inscribed in the hearts of Gentiles, who, despite not having received the law directly from God, perform the things contained within it by nature. This concept, understood in modern terms as natural law, suggests that certain principles are inherently recognized as binding, even without formal instruction. This idea of natural law implies a universal moral compass that guides individuals instinctively, reflecting an innate understanding of right and wrong as established by God.
The Sovereignty of God: Part Four
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughThe laws of nature, given by God, operate and maintain control over creation, yet they do not function independently. God did not create and then step aside to let impersonal laws regulate His creation. Instead, He actively manages, governs, and directs everything according to His purpose. Psalm 22:28 declares that He rules over the nations, using an active verb to emphasize His ongoing involvement. His creation does not operate uniformly to produce endless life and beauty without His intervention; it requires His continuous maintenance and dominion. The stability of creation itself speaks of God's constant involvement. He did not merely create and walk away, leaving everything to operate under impersonal law. Genesis 1:3 sets the pattern for His governance: He speaks, and light appears. In verse 9, He commands the waters to gather, shaping and managing His creation. His sovereignty is further shown in events like the Flood, which was not a natural occurrence but a deliberate act of His will, as stated in Genesis 6:17. Similarly, in Genesis 11:5-8, He confused languages and scattered humanity, demonstrating His active control. The uniform laws of nature, combined with the state of our relationship with Him, greatly determine whether He will bless or curse. However, His spiritual purpose always overrides everything, and He remains Sovereign over all. Even in obedience and a good relationship with Him, we may still suffer or not prosper as expected, as exemplified by Job. God's active involvement ensures that His purpose will resolve far better than if only natural laws were at work.
The Sovereignty of God and Human Responsibility: Part Eleven
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughGod's sovereignty and free moral agency set up a seeming paradox. Just how much choice and freedom do we have under God's sovereign rule?
The Sovereignty of God: Part Five
'Personal' from John W. RitenbaughIs God sovereign over angels? What about mankind's choices? God's sovereignty is absolute as He directs events toward the culmination of His plan.
The Sovereignty of God (Part Four)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughGod not only upholds, but also guides and propels His creation, periodically overruling man's mismanagement with floods, fires, winds, and earthquakes.
A Bed Too Short (Part 2)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)Americans, living well on credit and enamored with technology, have deceived themselves that they have advanced beyond the consequences of God's Law.
A Bed Too Short (Part 1)
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Charles WhitakerOur society is too connected with the present, too enamored of technology, too surfeited on abundance to pay attention to basic laws of cause and effect.
Sowing and Reaping
'Ready Answer' by David C. GrabbeA basic agricultural principle, what is sown will be reaped, also applies to human behavior. Sin brings death, while following God's Word produces life.
The Sovereignty of God (Part Five)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughA converted person, accepting God's specific care with His children, realizes that both prosperity and deprivation are tools in the Creator's workshop.
Psalm 8: God's Majesty
Sermonette by Ted E. BowlingSeveral notable scientists marvel at the psalmist David's accurate scientific description in Psalm 8, millennia before technology verified these descriptions.
Is God a Magician?
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughTechnology makes us susceptible to the 'quick fix' mentality, expecting miraculous solutions to all problems, making us susceptible to false miracles.