Monday, June 09, 2008

random molecules

In my classes in the seminary, I raise questions like, “Is God in control of every single molecule in the universe?” When I raise that question, I say, “The answer to that question will not determine whether you are a Christian or a Moslem, a Calvinist or an Arminian, but it will determine whether you are a theist or an atheist.” Sometimes the students can’t see the connection.

And I say to them, “Don’t you realize that if there is one molecule in this universe running around loose outside the scope or the sphere of God’s divine control and authority and power, then that single maverick molecule may be the grain of sand that changes the entire course of human history, that blocks God from keeping the promises he has made to his people?” It may be that one maverick molecule that will prevent Christ from the consummation of his kingdom. For if there is one maverick molecule, it would mean that God is not sovereign. If God is not sovereign, then God is not God. If there is any element of the universe that is outside of his authority, then he no longer is God over all. In other words, sovereignty belongs to deity. Sovereignty is a natural attribute of the Creator. God owns what he makes, and he rules what he owns. ~ -R. C. Sproul

HT:SOS

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5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Perhaps it depends on what is meant by the word/idea of control.

Control may be used to mean each molecule's every action/movement is intended and directed by God.

Or control could be used to mean regardless of each molecule's every action/movement, God will achieve the outcomes He ordains.

Imperfect analogy: no matter which way the gazelle turns, the lion brings it down.

ricki said...

I'm going with:

verb ( -trolled |kənˈtroʊld|, -trolling |kənˈtroʊlɪŋ|)
1 [ trans. ] determine the behavior or supervise the running of : he was appointed to control the company's marketing strategy.
• maintain influence or authority over : you shouldn't have dogs if you can't control them.
• limit the level, intensity, or numbers of : he had to control his temper.
• ( control oneself) remain calm and reasonable despite provocation : he made an effort to control himself.
• regulate (a mechanical or scientific process) : the airflow is controlled by a fan.
• [as adj. ] ( controlled) (of a drug) restricted by law with respect to use and possession : a sentence for possessing controlled substances.

Anonymous said...

Uhhhh, which one of the five you cite are you going with?

I cited 1 and 2, and suggested #2 was the appropriate meaning for the comment you quoted.

So which one of the five do you mean?

ricki said...

George - guess I need to go back to school, I took all of these as pointing to "each molecule's every action/movement is intended and directed by God".

Anonymous said...

Thanks, Rick.

reftagger