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Abraham's Sacrifice (Part Four): Providence Manifested
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe Greek term *pronoia* (G4307), used in the New Testament, translates to forethought or thinking ahead. It embodies the concept of divine providence, which involves God's timely preparation, care, and supervision over His creation and purposes. Providence, derived from the Latin *providere* meaning to foresee, reflects God's ability to know what is needed and to supply it at the right moment. This divine forethought is not merely foreknowledge but includes the active provision of needs as they arise. God's providence is deeply connected with His sovereignty, foreknowledge, will, and purposes, ensuring that His plans are fulfilled from their inception to their ultimate realization. In the context of Genesis 22, this concept is evident as Abraham demonstrates confidence in God's provision, trusting that He would provide the necessary lamb for the sacrifice. This trust underscores the broader theme of God's providence, culminating in the ultimate provision of His Son, Jesus Christ, as the Lamb of God, highlighting His boundless ability to supply all that is needed for His creation.
Themes of Ruth (Part Two): God's Providence
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughGod's providence, rooted in the concept of *pronoia* (G4307), reflects His forethought and foresight in orchestrating events to achieve His ultimate purpose. This Greek term, meaning forethought, implies a deliberate plan and goal, encompassing not just provision but the careful planning and subtle interventions necessary to reach a foreseen end. Providence involves God's preservation, care, and governance over all creation to ensure His intended outcomes are accomplished. In the narrative of Ruth, this is evident through His behind-the-scenes work, subtly guiding events without direct manifestation. He moves individuals like Elimelech, Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz through small nudges and circumstances—such as a famine prompting a move to Moab, the deaths that lead Naomi to return, and Ruth's seemingly chance arrival at Boaz's field—to align with His greater plan. Each event, from the famine to the conception granted to Ruth, showcases His sovereign oversight in even the smallest details, ensuring His purpose unfolds as He has foreseen.
The Providence of God (Part Three)
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughThe word *pronoia* (Strong's 4307), found in Acts 24:2, carries the meaning of forethought or provident care, and can also be translated as supply. Its root, *pronoeo* (Strong's 4306), means to consider in advance or to look out beforehand. This concept of providence encompasses two parallel applications: providing maintenance for others, as a parent does for children, and exercising circumspection for oneself, ensuring personal well-being. God embodies both aspects, acting for the well-being of His purpose and for His creation. Providence, derived from Latin roots meaning to see beforehand, goes beyond mere foresight or foreknowledge. It is intrinsically tied to God's provision—what He supplies and the timing of His actions. His providence includes foresight within its broad scope, ensuring maintenance and circumspection for His overall purpose. Just as one might foresee a danger like an approaching train and take action to avoid it, God sees in advance and provides accordingly. His provision is always timed perfectly to achieve His intended outcomes, often in ways that may not align with human expectations or understanding. In relation to God's involvement, providence always carries the dual emphasis of foresight and provision. He not only observes but actively watches over, ensuring that what He provides is exactly what is needed for His purpose first. His care is proactive and deeply involved, demonstrating that He is a vigilant and loving parent who never makes a mistake in what He supplies for His children.
Are We Redeeming the Time?
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughTime is fleeting; any of us could perish tomorrow. Procrastination in matters of godliness can be fatal, as the parable of the rich fool teaches.