Among the many questions of the Westminster Larger Catechism, the 19th question stands out, inviting us to think deeply about God's providence, goodness, and sovereignty over all creation. As we continue to consider God's providence, which we saw last week is God's most holy, wise, and powerful preserving and governing of all his creatures, one of the questions that arises is about the angelic host. The angelic host is an interesting topic in scripture, partly because we are not told a whole lot about them. We know that they are the messengers of God, that there are a variety of different types, and that a large portion of them fell with Satan. It is important to note that angels are a different category of being than humanity. They are as different from us as we are from ants. I find this distinction important to mention because of the widespread belief that we become angels when we die, which is not something that Scripture teaches. When we die we remain human. With that said let us get right into it.
The Foundation of God’s Sovereignty
The 19th question of the Westminster Larger Catechism deals explicitly with the sovereign goodness and control of God. This means that God is not a distant observer; He is actively involved in everything that happens in the world. The question—“What is the providence of God?”—challenges us by emphasizing that God governs all aspects of creation, including countless angels who serve His will and those that oppose it.
Question 19 specifically asks:
What is God's providence toward the angels?
It then answers:
God by his providence permitted some of the angels, willfully and irrecoverably, to fall into sin and damnation, limiting and ordering that, and all their sins, to his own glory; and established the rest in holiness and happiness; employing them all, at his pleasure, in the administrations of his power, mercy, and justice.
The idea is simple, if hard to come to terms with. The reality is that nothing is outside of God's providential and sovereign control, even the fallen angels. One of the places we clearly see this demonstrated is in the gospel accounts with the healing of the man possessed by Legion (Matthew8:28-24, Mark 5:1-21, Luke 8:26-40). In this story, we see that the demon is completely at the mercy of Jesus' power and even has to ask permission to go into the near by pigs.
The Goodness of God in His Providence
As we acknowledge God's sovereignty, we must also reflect on His inherent goodness. God is fundamentally good, and His actions are based in this goodness. Romans 8:28 reminds us that God’s providence works for the good of those who love Him. The idea is that even all the actions of the fallen angels and Satan are being used by God for his own glory and the good of God's people.
One of the greatest biblical examples of this is the life of Job, who faced immense loss and suffering yet ultimately witnessed restoration. Job's story illustrates that God can take our pain and use it for greater good, helping us grow in faith and character. Even if we never see that greater good in our lifetime, if we are in Christ, we have the greatest good awaiting us. Job, rightly considered, calls us to wander at the sovereign goodness and control of God.
Our perspective on suffering changes when we understand that it can lead to personal growth and a deeper relationship with God. For example, a 2021 survey revealed that 70% of people find their faith strengthened after enduring challenging times. This insight encourages us to remember that our struggles can lead to greater trust in a good and loving God.
The Role of Angelic Hosts in God’s Plan
Holy angels act under God's command, guiding and protecting us as they execute His plans. For instance, in Daniel 6, an angel protected Daniel from the lions. On the other hand, fallen angels, led by Satan, aim to lead humanity astray. Yet even these forces are under God's ultimate authority. For example, the Book of Revelation shows that God will ultimately defeat all evil. There is a place already prepared for Satan and all his angels, and in God's own good and perfect time, they will be thrown in.
This spiritual dynamic serves as a reminder that we are participants in a grand cosmic struggle, yet through Christ’s victory, we can confidently navigate life knowing that our God reigns supreme.
The Assurance of God’s Gracious Care
Exploring God’s sovereignty alongside His goodness provides profound comfort in knowing He cares deeply for us. Question 19 reminds believers to marvel at a God who works all things for his glory and the good of his people.
Psalm 103:13-14 beautifully illustrates this: "As a father shows compassion to his children, so the Lord shows compassion to those who fear him. For he knows our frame; he remembers that we are dust." This comparison helps us understand that God's sovereignty does not lead to aloofness; instead, it assures us He actively engages in our lives.
During difficult times, it can be easy to feel abandoned. However, we must remember that God’s goodness persists. Even when situations seem unfavorable, His steadfast character invites us to trust Him. For example, many believers have shared stories of how they found peace during financial difficulties by relying on God's provision.
Responding to God’s Sovereign Goodness
What should our response be to the truths revealed in the 19th question of the Westminster Larger Catechism? Recognizing God's sovereignty and goodness calls us to worship Him. Our appropriate response involves embracing humility and offering praise, accepting that we are cared for by a loving and powerful God.
Additionally, grasping God's providence invites us to deepen our faith. During life's trials, we can look back at instances of His faithfulness. The church is an important part of this because it provides a family who can help one another. Members are called to share their struggles and how God has been working through them. This sharing fosters encouragement and strengthens our unity with the Lord and one another.
The Challenge of Trusting God’s Plan
While we appreciate God's goodness, we must also confront the existence of pain and injustice in the world. Questions may arise—how can a good God allow suffering? In these challenging moments, we are encouraged to trust in God’s character rather than our understanding.
Joseph's story in Genesis is a prime example. Despite being sold into slavery and facing numerous adversities, he ultimately saw God's purpose in his suffering, declaring, "You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good" (Genesis 50:20). This narrative reminds us that our perspective is often quite limited. During all the events that Joseph went through, being sold as a slave by his brothers and such, it is likely that he did not always see the light at the end of the tunnel. In the end, though he could look back and see that God was the one who was bringing all of this to pass. God intended Joseph to be sold into slavery, but while the brothers meant it for evil, God meant it for good.
When challenges arise, we must cling to God's sovereignty and goodness. Embracing faith—similar to Abraham's trust in God’s promises despite challenges—can guide us through. Such faith allows us to acknowledge doubt but still engage meaningfully with God's character.
A Call to Reflect on God’s Nature
Reflecting on the 19th question of the Westminster Larger Catechism compels us to appreciate the dual truths of God's sovereign goodness and control. God exercises authority over all creation, including the angelic beings, while also desiring personal involvement in our lives.
In uncertainty, we are invited to trust in God's providence, recognizing that He orchestrates everything for both His glory and our good. As we reflect on these truths, let's respond with faith, worship, and encouraging each other through the complexities of life.
Ultimately, God's sovereignty, graciousness, and goodness are not abstract ideas; they are the foundation of our hope. As we navigate our journey, may we continue to wonder at the greatness of our God, who seeks a relationship with us, is invested in our struggles, and promises a bright future ahead. Let us marvel at the God who gave is only Son that we might be saved.
Soli Deo Gloria
Comments