Topical Encyclopedia Definition: Concurrence, in theological terms, refers to the cooperative interaction between divine sovereignty and human free will. It is the concept that God, in His omnipotence and omniscience, works through and with human actions and decisions to fulfill His divine purposes. This doctrine maintains that God's will is accomplished without negating human responsibility. Biblical Basis: The Bible presents numerous instances where divine sovereignty and human actions intersect, illustrating the principle of concurrence. One of the clearest examples is found in the account of Joseph. In Genesis 50:20 , Joseph tells his brothers, "As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." Here, human intentions and actions are evident, yet God's overarching plan is fulfilled through them. Another significant example is found in the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. In Acts 2:23 , Peter declares, "He was handed over by God’s set plan and foreknowledge, and you, by the hands of the lawless, put Him to death by nailing Him to the cross." This verse highlights the concurrence of God's predetermined plan and human actions, where both divine sovereignty and human responsibility are at play. Theological Implications: Concurrence upholds the belief that God is actively involved in His creation, guiding and directing events according to His will. It affirms that while humans have the freedom to make choices, these choices are ultimately used by God to achieve His purposes. This doctrine provides comfort to believers, assuring them that God is in control, even in situations where human actions seem to prevail. The doctrine of concurrence also addresses the problem of evil and suffering. It suggests that while God does not cause evil, He permits it and can use it to bring about a greater good. Romans 8:28 supports this view: "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose." Philosophical Considerations: The concept of concurrence raises philosophical questions about the nature of free will and divine foreknowledge. How can human actions be genuinely free if God is sovereign over all events? The doctrine of concurrence posits that God's sovereignty and human freedom are not mutually exclusive but are instead complementary. God's foreknowledge does not coerce human decisions; rather, it encompasses them within His divine plan. Historical Perspectives: Throughout church history, theologians have grappled with the tension between divine sovereignty and human freedom. Augustine of Hippo emphasized God's sovereignty, while also acknowledging human responsibility. The Reformers, particularly John Calvin, further developed the doctrine of concurrence, emphasizing God's providential control over all aspects of life. Practical Application: For believers, the doctrine of concurrence encourages trust in God's providence. It reassures them that their choices and actions, while significant, are part of a larger divine narrative. This understanding fosters a sense of peace and purpose, knowing that God is working through every circumstance to accomplish His will. In prayer, concurrence invites believers to align their desires with God's purposes, seeking His guidance and wisdom in their decisions. It also encourages a humble acknowledgment of God's sovereignty, leading to a life of obedience and faithfulness. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (n.) A meeting or coming together; agreement; union; conjunction; combination.2. (n.) A meeting of minds; agreement in opinion; union in design or act; -- implying joint approbation. 3. (n.) Agreement or consent, implying aid or contribution of power or influence; cooperation. 4. (n.) A common right; coincidence of equal powers; as, a concurrence of jurisdiction in two different courts. Greek 4795. sugkuria -- chance ... chance. From a comparative of sun and kureo (to light or happen; from the base of kurios); concurrence, ie Accident -- chance. see GREEK sun. see GREEK kurios. ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/4795.htm - 7k 5222. hupantesis -- a going to meet Library And, Therefore, in this Concurrence of the Sun and Moon... Counter-Statements of Theodoret. On Obedience to the Commands of God in General The Providence of God Whether Anger is a Special Passion? The Second Continental Journey. On the Providence of God 1 "If we Confess Our Sins, He is Faithful and Just to Forgive us Our ... An Argument against those who Say that Matter is Co-Eternal with ... Whether the Matter of Christ's Body Should have Been Taken from a ... Thesaurus Concurrence (1 Occurrence)... 4. (n.) A common right; coincidence of equal powers; as, a concurrence of jurisdiction in two different courts. ...Concurrence (1 Occurrence). ... /c/concurrence.htm - 7k Consent (34 Occurrences) Agreement (341 Occurrences) Excommunication Fortunate (4 Occurrences) Transfiguration Pauline Convention (1 Occurrence) Conspiracy (17 Occurrences) Coincidence (1 Occurrence) Resources If God knew that Adam and Eve would sin, why did He create them? | GotQuestions.orgConcurrence: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Concurrence (1 Occurrence)1 Corinthians 7:6 Subtopics Related Terms |