Background
The word sovereign has been used in the Bible different ways and with different levels of significance. In its most basic form, sovereign defines a person who has authority and control over a kingdom. In the Bible, references to the term ‘sovereign’ often refer to God, as the ruler of Heaven and Earth.
When the Bible talks about soverigny, it speaks of something more than just temporal power. It speaks of a majestic, self-existent authority. This is why the Bible generally speaks of God as being sovereign, with an ultimate power and rule which transcends all other powers. The Bible speaks of him as the ultimate source of all power, wisdom and life.
God’s Sovereignty
The Bible is clear that God’s sovereignty is absolute. He rules without any limitation from any outside power. The Bible speaks of him as the creator, sustainer and governor of the universe. He has the power to achieve whatever he chooses.
From the beginning of time, God has revealed his absolute rule in the Bible. He decreed the destruction of evil and maintained order despite the struggles of man and nature. He spoke often of his power to sustain justice and mercy among his people, protect them from harm and ultimately bring about redemption for all.
Examples of Sovereignty in the Bible
One of the most powerful examples of God’s sovereignty in the Bible is found in the book of Exodus. In Exodus 6, God promises to deliver his people from slavery in Egypt and bring them into the land of promise. He tells Moses to tell the people that their deliverance is in his hands. He warns Pharaoh that his authority will ultimately be subservient to God’s will and power.
Throughout the Bible, the term ‘sovereign’ is used in this way. In Psalm 145, the psalmist proclaims the greatness of God’s sovereignty by claiming his dominion over all the earth. In Isaiah 40, the prophet declares “His authority is over all”. It’s clear that God’s sovereignty is absolute and unchallenged.
Humans and Sovereignty
The Bible also speaks of soverigny with regard to humans. In Ecclesiastes 8, the writer speaks of the power that humans wield over the affairs of their own lives. In the same way, God has granted humans with certain authority in the affairs of their families, communities and nations. It is only inasmuch as these authorities are exercised within the boundaries of God’s sovereignty that they ought to be honored and respected.
God’s Sovereignty Ultimately Transcends All Authority
Though humans have been granted some authority, the Bible is clear that ultimately, God is sovereign. He transcends all other powers and authorities. In Isaiah 40, the prophet writes that God is the “Lord of heaven and earth”. He is the one who ultimately controls the affairs of his people and his creation. As humans, we are called to live under his authority, submitting our wills to his and trusting him to bring about justice and goodness in all his dealings with us.
God Uses Human Authority to Accomplish His Purpose
Though God is ultimately sovereign, the Bible speaks of his willingness to use human authority to accomplish his purposes. In Romans 13, the apostle Paul commands that Christians should be subject to the governing powers, for the purpose of doing good and establishing justice. In other words, God uses human authority in accordance to his own will and plans.
The Sovereignty of God is Good
Ultimately, the Bible speaks of the sovereignty of God as being a source of hope and comfort. Because God is sovereign, we can trust that He is ultimately in control and will ultimately bring about justice and goodness for his people. By submitting ourselves to God’s sovereignty and trusting in his goodness, we can have hope and assurance in any circumstance.
Application in Human Life
Since God is sovereign, we should strive to recognize and honor his sovereignty in all areas of our life. This means submitting to his rule and trusting in his plans. We should remember that ultimately, all authority and power rest in God’s hands and that his justice and goodness will ultimately prevail.
Conclusion
The sovereignty of God is a central theme of the Bible. From the Old Testament to New Testament, the Bible speaks of God’s absolute rule and authority. It’s clear that he is the creator and sustainer of all, and that he will ultimately bring about justice and goodness for those who trust in him. We should strive to recognize and honor the sovereignty of God in all areas of our lives.
