Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Concept Contingency refers to events or conditions that are possible but not certain to occur. In theological terms, it often relates to the understanding of God's sovereignty and human free will. The concept of contingency is significant in discussions about divine providence, human responsibility, and the unfolding of God's plan in history. Biblical Context The Bible presents a worldview where God is sovereign over all creation, yet human actions and decisions are meaningful and significant. This duality is evident throughout Scripture, where God's ultimate purposes are fulfilled, often through contingent human actions. Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility The Bible affirms God's sovereign control over the universe. Proverbs 16:9 states, "A man's heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." This verse highlights the balance between human planning and divine direction. Similarly, Proverbs 19:21 declares, "Many plans are in a man's heart, but the purpose of the LORD will prevail." These passages suggest that while humans make plans, it is ultimately God's will that is accomplished. Contingency in Salvation History The narrative of Joseph in Genesis illustrates the interplay of contingency and divine providence. Joseph's brothers sold him into slavery, an act of human free will with evil intent. However, God used this event to bring about a greater good, as Joseph later tells his brothers, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50:20). The Role of Prayer Prayer is another area where contingency is evident. The Bible encourages believers to pray, suggesting that prayer can influence outcomes. James 5:16 states, "The prayer of a righteous man has great power to prevail." This implies that while God is sovereign, He invites human participation through prayer, which can affect circumstances. Contingency and Prophecy Biblical prophecy often includes elements of contingency. For example, the prophecy of Jonah to Nineveh was contingent upon the city's response. Jonah 3:4-10 recounts how Nineveh's repentance led God to relent from the disaster He had threatened. This demonstrates that prophetic declarations can be conditional, based on human response. Theological Implications The concept of contingency raises important theological questions about the nature of God's foreknowledge and human freedom. While God knows all possible outcomes, He allows human choices to play a role in the unfolding of His divine plan. This dynamic relationship underscores the mystery of God's interaction with His creation. Conclusion While the Bible does not explicitly use the term "contingency," the concept is woven throughout its narrative, illustrating the complex relationship between divine sovereignty and human agency. Believers are called to trust in God's ultimate plan while actively engaging in the world through prayer, obedience, and righteous living. Topical Bible Verses James 4:14Whereas you know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor, that appears for a little time, and then vanishes away. Topicalbible.org James 4:15 James 4:13-16 Matthew 24:35 1 John 2:18 2 Peter 1:4 Library Whether Providence Imposes any Necessity on Things Foreseen? Naught among Things Contingent Can be Said to be Necessarily done ... Whether virtue is Adequately Divided into Moral and Intellectual? Whether the Fruits are Suitably Enumerated by the Apostle? Whether Providence Imposes a Necessity on what it Provides Whether Predestination is Certain? The Certainty of Sacred Theology Twenty-Third Proposition of Arminius It is the Summit of Blasphemy to Say, that God is Freely Good. Whether Predestination is Certain Resources What is the Amplified Bible (AMP)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about creation vs. evolution? | GotQuestions.org What are some undeniable examples of divine intervention? | GotQuestions.org Alternate: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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