10.5 Limits and Rules
God’s Justice in the Cosmic Conflict

The cosmic conflict is not simply a battle between good and evil in terms of a power struggle. Rather, it is about a deeper question: Is God’s government truly just, loving, and trustworthy? Satan has called God’s character into question, claiming that God rules arbitrarily and that His commandments are a restriction of freedom. Therefore, the great struggle is primarily a contest in which God’s justice must be proven and vindicated.

God’s Government Follows Firm Principles

God could annihilate evil immediately, but that would not solve the central problem. The cosmic conflict requires demonstration—not for God Himself, but for the creatures of the universe. When a government based on love is questioned, it cannot be defended by sheer force; that would confirm Satan’s accusations. Instead, God has chosen to conduct the entire conflict openly and transparently before all of creation.

The Holy Scriptures show that even God subjects Himself to certain “rules of the game”:

1. God adheres to His own character of love and justice – He will not force anyone to worship or obey Him (2 Corinthians 3:17).

2. God respects the free will of His creatures – even if this means that evil remains for a time (Deuteronomy 30:19).

3. God acts in accordance with His promises – He will never break His word or contradict Himself (Numbers 23:19).

4. God allows Satan to operate for a certain period, but within clear limits – as is evident in the Book of Job (Job 1:12; 2:6).

Why Does God Allow Evil?

Many wonder why an almighty God permits evil in the world. However, when we understand the great struggle, we recognize that God’s decision to remain faithful to His own justice also means that He allows evil to persist for a limited time. If He were to immediately destroy all sinners, it would give the impression that Satan was right—that God is neither patient nor just, but acts on a whim.

Yet evil will not exist forever. Revelation 20:10 describes that Satan and his followers will eventually be destroyed. However, this will occur only after it has been visibly confirmed to all that God’s ways are just and that evil is not a viable alternative.

Read Mark 6:5 and 9:29. What do these texts reveal about the fact that even divine action can be connected with factors such as faith and prayer?

The verses in Mark 6:5 and 9:29 reveal a profound spiritual principle: God works in the world, but His actions are often tied to certain conditions—especially faith and prayer.

In Mark 6:5 we read that Jesus “could do no mighty work there, except that he laid his hands on a few sick people and healed them” in His hometown of Nazareth. Why? Because the people there did not believe. This shows that God’s power is not exercised arbitrarily but in accordance with the spiritual principles of His government. Where unbelief prevails, God’s activity is limited—not because He cannot act, but because He respects the free will of people.

In Mark 9:29, Jesus explains that some demonic powers can be driven out “only by prayer and fasting.” This means that prayer plays a role in unleashing divine power and influencing the spiritual battle in certain situations.

These verses teach us that:

1. God is always almighty, but He has decided not to act against His own plan – that is, He respects the free will of people and expects their trust.

2. Faith plays an active role in God’s work – it is not a magic remedy but an attitude that welcomes God’s intervention.

3. Prayer opens spiritual doors that would otherwise remain closed. It is not a means to manipulate God, but an invitation for Him to act in a particular situation.

4. The limits of divine action do not lie in His power, but in His principles – He does not impose Himself, but acts through love, trust, and spiritual order.

Read Romans 8:18 and Revelation 21:3–4. How do these texts give you the assurance that despite the many things we do not know, we can trust that God knows what is best, that He desires the best, and that He will put an end to evil and usher in an eternity of bliss?

The verses Romans 8:18 and Revelation 21:3–4 provide us with a powerful perspective on suffering, hope, and the future that God has prepared for us.

Romans 8:18:
“For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.”
Here, Paul presents a central truth of the Christian faith: the present suffering is transient and insignificant compared to what God has prepared for us. This does not mean that our pain and trials are not real or meaningful, but that they do not have the final say. Focusing on God’s glory helps us endure even in difficult times.

Revelation 21:3–4:
“And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, ‘Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.’”
This promise gives us unwavering hope:

• God will ultimately dwell among us – we will experience an immediate, profound communion with Him.

• Suffering will come to an end – no more tears, pain, or death.

• All evil will be eliminated – the old, transient world will pass away, and a new, eternal reality will begin.

The principles of limits and rules in the cosmic conflict are not merely theological theories but have direct implications for our everyday life and faith. They help us understand why the world is as it is and how, in the midst of this reality, we can still live in trust of God.

1. God’s Ways Are Just, Even When We Do Not Always Understand Them

   There are many things in life that we do not immediately comprehend: Why is there suffering? Why do evil people seem to prosper? Why do some prayers go unanswered? The cosmic conflict shows us that God does not act arbitrarily but remains true to His plan and His justice. We can trust that God knows what is best, even if we cannot see it right away.

   Practical Application:

   • When we experience difficult times, we can know that our suffering is not meaningless (Romans 8:18).

   • We can trust that God has a plan that transcends our current understanding.

2. Free Will Plays a Role – Even in Our Decisions

   God does not force anyone to follow Him. This applies not only to angels and humanity as a whole but also to our personal lives. Every day, we face the choice of following God’s principles or being led by other influences.

   Practical Application:

   • Our daily actions—in our relationships, work, and decisions—demonstrate whom we trust: God or the principles of this world.

   • Our prayers and our faith affect God’s work in our lives.

3. Prayer and Faith Are Part of the Battle

   Mark 6:5 and 9:29 show that God’s action is linked to factors such as faith and prayer. This does not mean that God is powerless; rather, He involves us in His plan. When we do not pray, we deprive ourselves of the spiritual power that God wishes to bestow upon us.

   Practical Application:

   • Faith opens the doors for God’s action. Where people shut Him out, He does not impose Himself.

   • Prayer is not merely a wish list to God, but an active participation in the spiritual battle.

4. Evil Is Limited – God’s Kingdom Will Endure Forever

   Revelation 21:3–4 reminds us that evil will not persist forever. Even though we currently live in a world where Satan still has influence, we know that his end is assured. God will create a new world where there is no more suffering, pain, or death.

   Practical Application:

   • We should place our hope not in this temporary world, but in what is to come.

   • Our struggles and trials have an end—and the best is yet to come!

Conclusion

The “limits and rules” in the cosmic conflict show us that God does not rule by brute force, but through love, justice, and truth. We live in a world where evil can still operate, but we know: its dominion is limited—and God’s kingdom will endure forever.

This assurance gives us courage, steadfastness, and hope in our faith, even if we cannot yet see the complete picture. In the end, God’s justice will triumph—and we can trust in that!

God’s justice may be hidden for a time, but in the end, it will be revealed in all its glory.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-10-rules-of-engagement-10-5-limits-and-rules-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

March 6, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – James Chapter 2

¹ My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons.

² For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment;

³ And ye have respect to him that weareth the gay clothing, and say unto him, Sit thou here in a good place; and say to the poor, Stand thou there, or sit here under my footstool:

⁴ Are ye not then partial in yourselves, and are become judges of evil thoughts?

⁵ Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?

⁶ But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?

⁷ Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?

⁸ If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well:

⁹ But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.

¹⁰ For whosoever shall keep the whole law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all.

¹¹ For he that said, Do not commit adultery, said also, Do not kill. Now if thou commit no adultery, yet if thou kill, thou art become a transgressor of the law.

¹² So speak ye, and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.

¹³ For he shall have judgment without mercy, that hath shewed no mercy; and mercy rejoiceth against judgment.

¹⁴ What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?

¹⁵ If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,

¹⁶ And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?

¹⁷ Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.

¹⁸ Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.

¹⁹ Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

²⁰ But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?

²¹ Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?

²² Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?

²³ And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.

²⁴ Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.

²⁵ Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?

²⁶ For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

King James Version. Public Domain

Commentary

Introduction

James Chapter 2 is a central passage in the Bible that emphasizes the importance of living faith. The Apostle James makes it clear that faith should not be merely an inner conviction but must be expressed through practical love and righteous actions. Two key themes stand out: first, the warning against favoritism in the church, and second, the close connection between faith and works. James argues that a living faith must always bear fruit and manifest itself in acts of love and mercy. This teaching challenges Christians to examine their behavior and develop a faith practice characterized by justice and active compassion.

Commentary 

1.No Favoritism in the Church (Verses 1–13)

• Justice in Faith (Vv. 1–4): James warns against judging people based on external criteria. Favoring the rich and despising the poor violates God’s commandments.

• God’s Choice of the Poor (Vv. 5–7): God has often chosen those who are poor in the world but rich in faith. Meanwhile, the rich are frequently the ones who abuse power.

• The Law of Love (Vv. 8–13): True justice consists of following the “royal law” of love. However, those who treat people unequally are guilty of sin.

2.The Connection Between Faith and Works (Verses 14–26)

• Faith Without Works Is Useless (Vv. 14–17): A faith that does not manifest in deeds is dead. Merely speaking pious words without providing practical help to those in need does not fulfill the essence of faith.

• Faith and Works Belong Together (Vv. 18–20): James clarifies that true faith is demonstrated through actions. Even demons “believe,” yet their belief does not lead them to righteousness.

• Abraham and Rahab as Examples (Vv. 21–25): Abraham and Rahab are presented as role models. Their actions proved their faith—Abraham through his willingness to sacrifice Isaac and Rahab through her assistance to God’s messengers.

• Summary (V. 26): Just as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead.

Summary

James Chapter 2 calls for faith to be demonstrated not just through words but through actions. Christians should not show favoritism or discrimination, as all are equal before God. The law of love is the highest commandment and must be expressed through acts of mercy. Additionally, James emphasizes that faith without works is worthless—true discipleship in Jesus is evident in practical help and righteous living. Abraham and Rahab serve as examples of faith proven through action. In the end, the message is clear: A dead faith without works cannot save anyone. True faith will always bear fruit.

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 7—The Test of Discipleship
Read online here

Commentary

Introduction

Chapter 7 addresses the fundamental truth that a genuine conversion is not merely evident in external actions but in an inner, profound change of heart. Faith in Christ brings about a new creation that does not arise from human effort but from the work of the Holy Spirit. While some Christians may be unable to pinpoint the exact time of their conversion, the authenticity of their experience is demonstrated by a new way of life. Love for God, a transformed heart, and growing obedience to His Word are the proofs of being a child of God. This chapter introduces us to the significance of a life truly shaped by Christ and shows that genuine discipleship is not achieved through outward works alone, but through a deep, living relationship with God.

Commentary: Characteristics of Being a Child of God

1. A New Creation Through Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17)

   Scripture describes rebirth as a complete re-creation of the individual: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away.” This means that true conversion results in a profound change of heart that manifests not only in external forms but in all our thinking, feeling, and actions.

   • The work of the Holy Spirit is not always tangible or visible but can be likened to the wind (John 3:8).

   • This inner transformation reveals itself through a new attitude toward sin, a growing desire for holiness, and a deep love for God.

   • A changed heart produces the fruit of the Spirit: “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control” (Galatians 5:22).

2. The True Test of Faith: Where Does Our Heart Stand?

   Merely living a moral life on the outside does not prove genuine rebirth. Pride or social standing can also motivate a person to be “good.” However, true sonship or daughterhood in God is evident in questions like:

   • Who owns our heart?

   • What do we love to talk about most?

   • To whom do our deepest thoughts and feelings belong?

     A true disciple of Christ orders his life according to Him—loving what Christ loves and hating what He hates. Divine love is the driving force behind every action.

3. The Danger of Misconceptions About Faith and Obedience

   There are two main errors that Christians must guard against:

   • The error of works-righteousness: believing that one can be justified before God by one’s own efforts. Scripture makes it clear: “All works done without Christ are tainted by selfishness and sin.” We are saved by the grace of Christ alone.

   • The error of lawless faith: believing that grace frees a person from observing God’s law. Yet true faith leads to obedience: “For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments” (1 John 5:3).

     Christ not only grants us forgiveness but also the power to live according to His will. The law is not a means of salvation but an expression of divine love.

4. The True Foundation of Salvation

   No one can save themselves through their own righteousness. But Christ offers us His righteousness:

   • He lived a perfect life and fulfilled God’s law on our behalf.

   • Through His death, He took our sins upon Himself.

   • Through faith, His righteousness is credited to us.

     This means: “Christ’s nature takes the place of our nature; thus we are accepted by God.” Walking in Christ is a daily process of surrender and renewal.

5. True Faith Leads to Obedience

   Saving faith is not merely an intellectual assent to truth, but a trust that transforms our lives. “Faith without works is dead” (James 2:17).

   • True children of God are recognized by their deeds of righteousness.

   • Obedience is not the means of salvation but the fruit of a renewed heart.

   • The closer we draw to Christ, the more we recognize our own imperfections—this is a sign of genuine sanctification.

     A Christian does not live in lawlessness but “walks just as He walked” (1 John 2:6).

Summary: The Marks of a True Child of God

Chapter 7 describes the true nature of conversion and shows that being a child of God is not just an external form but a profound transformation of the heart. A renewed person is not defined by occasional good deeds but by a consistent change of character.

• Rebirth by the Holy Spirit is evident in new priorities, new love for God, and new values.

• True followers of Christ focus their hearts, minds, and lives on Him.

• Faith and obedience go hand in hand: faith in Christ produces a new way of life aligned with God’s will.

This chapter calls us to examine our own hearts: Is our life in harmony with Christ? Do we love God with all our heart? Do our thoughts, words, and actions show that we are His children? Only through a deep, daily connection with Jesus can we experience genuine transformation and give evidence of being children of God.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/6-03-2025-james-chapter-2-believe-his-prophets/