The One who Ordained it
Jump to: SubtopicsTerms
Topical Encyclopedia
The phrase "The One who Ordained it" refers to God as the ultimate authority and sovereign power who establishes and decrees all things according to His divine will and purpose. This concept is deeply rooted in the biblical understanding of God's omnipotence, omniscience, and providence.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible consistently portrays God as the supreme ruler who ordains the course of history and the lives of individuals. In Isaiah 46:10, God declares, "I declare the end from the beginning, and ancient times from what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and all My good pleasure I will accomplish.’" This verse underscores God's ability to determine and bring to fruition His divine plans.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul affirms God's sovereign ordination in Ephesians 1:11: "In Him we were also chosen as God’s own, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything by the counsel of His will." This passage highlights the belief that God orchestrates all events in accordance with His eternal purpose.

Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility

The doctrine of divine ordination does not negate human responsibility. Scripture maintains a balance between God's sovereignty and human free will. Proverbs 16:9 states, "A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps." This suggests that while humans make plans, it is ultimately God who directs their paths.

The interplay between divine ordination and human action is also evident 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 a day like this—to preserve the lives of many people." Here, human actions are woven into God's overarching plan for good.

Ordination in Salvation

The concept of ordination is particularly significant in the context of salvation. Romans 8:29-30 speaks of those whom God foreknew and predestined to be conformed to the image of His Son. This passage emphasizes God's initiative in the salvation process, underscoring that it is God who ordains the means and the end of salvation.

Ordination of Leaders and Events

Throughout the Bible, God ordains leaders and events to fulfill His purposes. In the Old Testament, God ordains kings, prophets, and judges to lead His people. For instance, in 1 Samuel 16:12-13, God instructs Samuel to anoint David as king, signifying divine ordination for leadership.

In the New Testament, Jesus Himself is described as ordained by God. Acts 10:42 states, "And He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that He is the One appointed by God as judge of the living and the dead." This highlights Jesus' divine appointment to fulfill God's redemptive plan.

Conclusion

The One who Ordained it is a central theme in Scripture, reflecting God's ultimate authority and purpose in creation, history, and individual lives. Through His sovereign will, God orchestrates all things for His glory and the good of those who love Him, as affirmed in Romans 8:28: "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose."
The One Who Offers Sacrifices and the One Who Does Not
Top of Page
Top of Page