8.4 God’s Ideal and Remedial Wills
God’s Plan: Freedom and Restoration

Read Ephesians 1:9–11. What does this text say about predestination? Are some people predestined to be saved while others are doomed to perish?

Ephesians 1:9–11 provides valuable insights into God’s plan for humanity and the meaning of predestination. The term “predestined” (Greek proorizō) is often misunderstood as a rigid, deterministic setting in of all events by God. However, the biblical use of this term indicates that God makes His plans in advance, taking into account the free choices of human beings.

God’s Predetermination and Free Will
Paul explains that God works “according to the purpose of His will” (Eph 1:11). At first glance, this might give the impression that God predetermined every detail of human life in advance. Yet, when we consider this verse in the broader context of the Bible, it becomes clear that God respects human free will. This is evident in passages such as Luke 7:30, where it is reported that the Pharisees “rejected the will of God for themselves.” Similarly, in Luke 13:34, Jesus makes it clear that although God desired to save Jerusalem, the people were not ready.

This means that God’s will is not always enforced unchanged, but rather manifests in two dimensions:

1. God’s Ideal Will – This is what God desires for His creation. He wants all people to be saved (1 Tim 2:4) and to live according to His perfect plan.

2. God’s Healing Will – This takes into account the real decisions of people and continues to work out His healing purpose despite their wrong choices. Even if people choose against God’s will, God can incorporate these decisions into His greater plan of salvation.

Ephesians 1:11: An Expression of God’s Healing Will
Ephesians 1:11 refers to the sovereignty of God, but not in the sense of a ruthless determinism. Rather, it describes God’s ability to fulfill His plans even in a fallen world. He does not force anyone to be saved or condemned; instead, He works throughout history to achieve His goal of salvation—while preserving human freedom.

Summary
God’s will is neither mechanistic nor arbitrary. The predestination that Paul speaks of is not an irrevocable determination of an individual’s fate, but an expression of God’s plan, which offers salvation in Christ. In doing so, He takes into account human free will and carries out His healing will so that, despite human decisions, the overarching goal of His love and grace is fulfilled.

God’s foreknowledge of the future is so powerful that even when He knows all human decisions—including the wrong ones—He can still “work all things for good” (Rom 8:28). What comfort can you draw from this truth?

The thought that God can accomplish His plan despite all human decisions—including the bad ones—is a source of deep comfort and assurance. Romans 8:28 reminds us that “all things work together for good for those who love God.”

Comfort from God’s Foreknowledge and Sovereignty

1. God Is Never Surprised or Overwhelmed

   No mistake, no suffering, and no wrong decision can thwart God’s plan. Even when people go astray or injustice befalls us, God can transform these experiences into something good.

2. God Is Active in Our Lives

   God’s foreknowledge is not merely a passive knowledge of the future but part of His loving action. He not only sees what will happen, but He accompanies us on our journey, guides us, and opens doors for repentance and healing.

3. Our Mistakes Are Not Final

   Even if we make poor decisions, it does not mean that our lives are ruined. God can even use our errors to teach us, shape us, and bring us closer to His good plan.

4. Suffering Has a Purpose in God’s Plan

   Even if we sometimes do not understand why we go through difficult times, we can trust that God incorporates everything into a higher purpose. Pain and challenges are often the means by which God helps us grow and fulfill His plan.

5. The Future Is Secure in God’s Hands

   Nothing happens outside of God’s knowledge and control. Even if our current situation is difficult, we know that God is capable of bringing everything to good. This gives us hope and peace, even when we do not immediately understand everything.

Summary
This truth teaches us to trust God even when our lives seem chaotic. His knowledge of the future and His ability to direct everything for good give us security and hope. We can rest in the knowledge that our lives are in the hands of a loving God whose plan, in the end, is for our benefit.

The understanding of God’s ideal and healing will is not only a theological truth but also has concrete implications for our daily lives and our faith. It helps us understand God’s actions in our own lives and provides us with guidance, comfort, and hope.

1. Trust in God’s Plan – Even in Difficult Times

   Sometimes we face challenges that we do not understand. We wonder why certain things happen and whether our lives are on the right track. Yet, Ephesians 1:11 reminds us that God directs all things according to His will—not as a strict dictator, but as a loving Father who integrates our mistakes and difficult situations into His healing plan.

   Everyday Application: In tough times, we can find peace knowing that despite our uncertainties, God has a good plan for our lives.

2. Our Decisions Matter

   God gives us the freedom to choose our path. His ideal will would have us always living in complete alignment with His plan. Yet He respects our decisions and continues to guide us even when we err.

   Everyday Application: We should make our decisions consciously and prayerfully, knowing that they play a role in God’s plan. At the same time, we can trust that God will not abandon us even when we make mistakes.

3. Faith Means Trust, Not Perfection

   We do not have to understand everything to trust God. Romans 8:28 teaches us that even our mistakes and the mistakes of others cannot prevent God’s plan from being fulfilled.

   Everyday Application: We can live boldly and trustingly, knowing that God is directing our lives. Rather than being paralyzed by fear, we can start each day with the confidence that God is with us.

4. Forgiveness and Reconciliation as Part of God’s Healing Will

   God works not only in our individual lives but also in our relationships. Just as He planned the reconciliation of humanity with Himself through Christ, He calls us to seek peace and healing in our own relationships.

   Everyday Application: We should not dwell in bitterness or resentment, but actively pursue forgiveness and reconciliation, as God has intended this in His healing will for us.

5. Hope for the Future

   No matter what happens in our lives, we can be assured: God has the final word. His will will be accomplished, and in the end, He will bring everything to good.

   Everyday Application: Instead of being overwhelmed by worries about the future, we can live with the assurance that God’s plan for us is good—even if we do not fully understand it immediately.

Conclusion
God’s ideal and healing will means that we can live in freedom while entrusting ourselves to His love and guidance. Our faith is not defined by perfection, but by the trust that God can bring good out of even the most difficult circumstances. This understanding helps us live each day with confidence, hope, and forgiveness.

Trust that God’s healing will can turn even the most challenging paths into a blessing.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-8-free-will-love-and-divine-providence-8-4-gods-ideal-and-remedial-wills-the-god-of-love-and-justice-living-faith/

The Message of Philemon

The Epistle to Philemon is a short but significant letter written by the Apostle Paul to Philemon, a wealthy Christian in Colossae. The letter addresses forgiveness, Christian love, and social renewal in the light of the Gospel.

Main Message of the Epistle to Philemon

1.Love and Intercession for a Runaway Slave (Onesimus)

Paul writes to Philemon because his runaway slave, Onesimus, has come to faith in Christ while with Paul in Rome. Paul asks Philemon to receive Onesimus no longer as a slave, but as a brother in Christ (Phm 16).

2.Christian Forgiveness and Reconciliation

The letter conveys a radical message: Philemon should forgive his former slave and not punish him. Paul emphasizes that the Gospel transcends social barriers.

3.Equality in Christ

Paul shows that in Christ, all are equal, regardless of their social status (cf. Galatians 3:28). Onesimus should no longer be seen as property but as a beloved brother.

4.Practical Application of Christian Faith

Paul could have used his authority to command Philemon to free Onesimus, but instead, he appeals to love and voluntary decision (Phm 8-9). This demonstrates that true faith is expressed through concrete acts of love and reconciliation.

5.The Gospel Transforms Relationships

The letter shows that the Gospel transforms social norms. Christian community is not just about spirituality but also about a new way of relating to one another.

Summary

The Epistle to Philemon is a powerful testimony of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the equality of all people in Christ. Paul illustrates that the Gospel is not only a personal experience but also has a social impact.

 

February 19, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – Philemon Chapter 1

¹ Paul, a prisoner of Jesus Christ, and Timothy our brother, unto Philemon our dearly beloved, and fellowlabourer,

² And to our beloved Apphia, and Archippus our fellowsoldier, and to the church in thy house:

³ Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

⁴ I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers,

⁵ Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints;

⁶ That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.

⁷ For we have great joy and consolation in thy love, because the bowels of the saints are refreshed by thee, brother.

⁸ Wherefore, though I might be much bold in Christ to enjoin thee that which is convenient,

⁹ Yet for love’s sake I rather beseech thee, being such an one as Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ.

¹⁰ I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds:

¹¹ Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me:

¹² Whom I have sent again: thou therefore receive him, that is, mine own bowels:

¹³ Whom I would have retained with me, that in thy stead he might have ministered unto me in the bonds of the gospel:

¹⁴ But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly.

¹⁵ For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever;

¹⁶ Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?

¹⁷ If thou count me therefore a partner, receive him as myself.

¹⁸ If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee ought, put that on mine account;

¹⁹ I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it: albeit I do not say to thee how thou owest unto me even thine own self besides.

²⁰ Yea, brother, let me have joy of thee in the Lord: refresh my bowels in the Lord.

²¹ Having confidence in thy obedience I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say.

²² But withal prepare me also a lodging: for I trust that through your prayers I shall be given unto you.

²³ There salute thee Epaphras, my fellowprisoner in Christ Jesus;

²⁴ Marcus, Aristarchus, Demas, Lucas, my fellowlabourers.

²⁵ The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

The Epistle to Philemon is one of the most personal letters of the Apostle Paul and an outstanding example of Christian ethics in action. It was probably written around AD 60 during Paul’s imprisonment in Rome. The letter is addressed to Philemon, a wealthy Christian in Colossae, as well as to Apphia, Archippus, and the church in his home. The central message of the letter is the plea for forgiveness and reconciliation on behalf of Onesimus, a runaway slave who, through Paul, has come to faith.

Commentary 

1.Greeting and Benediction (Verses 1-3)
Paul begins the letter with a warm greeting, addressing Philemon and his household church. He emphasizes his own imprisonment, which intensifies the emotional tone of the letter. The mention of Timothy underscores the close connection within the early church.

2.Praise for Philemon’s Faith and Love (Verses 4-7)
Paul commends Philemon for his faith in Christ and his love for the saints. He highlights that Philemon’s life is a blessing to the Christian community and expresses his gratitude. This praise serves as a prelude to the request that follows.

3.Advocacy for Onesimus (Verses 8-16)
While Paul could command Philemon to forgive Onesimus, he chooses instead to make a plea out of love.

• • He refers to Onesimus as his “son,” whom he has “begotten” during his imprisonment, signifying his spiritual rebirth.

  • Onesimus was once “useless” to Philemon but is now “useful,” both to Paul and to Philemon.

  • Paul emphasizes that Onesimus is no longer merely a slave but has become a brother in Christ.

4.Appeal for the Acceptance of Onesimus (Verses 17-21)
Paul urges Philemon to welcome Onesimus as if he were welcoming Paul himself.

• • He offers to settle any debts Onesimus may owe, reflecting the Christian practice of mercy.

  • Paul shows trust in Philemon’s obedience and even expects him to do more than what is required.

5.Conclusion: Travel Benediction and Greetings (Verses 22-25)
Paul expresses hope that, through the prayers of the church, he will soon be released from imprisonment.

• • He conveys greetings from his co-workers, including Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke.

  • The letter concludes with a blessing that emphasizes God’s grace.

Summary

The Epistle to Philemon is a powerful example of Christian love, reconciliation, and equality in Christ. Paul appeals to Philemon’s generosity by asking him to receive Onesimus as a brother in Christ rather than to punish him as a runaway slave. The letter demonstrates that the Gospel not only transforms individual lives but also establishes new foundations for social relationships. Through the example of Paul and Onesimus, it becomes clear that true Christian community is based on love, mercy, and forgiveness.

 

 

WEEKLY SPIRIT OF PROPHECY READING – Ellen White | Steps to Christ
Chapter 5—Consecration
Read online here

 

Commentary

Introduction: The Meaning of Devotion

Devotion to God is not a one-time act but a profound, life-changing decision. The Lord promises that those who seek Him with all their heart will find Him (Jeremiah 29:13-14). Yet true devotion requires humility, a struggle against one’s own self, and a complete renewal of our being. Our sinful nature has separated us from God, but He calls us to repentance and offers us the opportunity to return to His presence through His grace. This chapter demonstrates that devotion is not merely an outward confession but a total self-abandonment—a decision that leads us from the slavery of sin into the freedom of the children of God.

Commentary: The Struggle for Complete Devotion

The greatest challenge in a believer’s life is the battle against one’s own self. Paul describes this inner conflict as a spiritual struggle that requires a conscious decision to submit our own will to God’s authority. God does not force us into submission; rather, He invites us to come to Him freely.

Devotion means not only abandoning bad habits but also letting go of everything that separates us from God. For some, it is wealth; for others, honor, comfort, or self-will. Yet Christ demands a complete decision: “Any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:33).

A superficial faith or half-hearted Christianity leads to an empty, worthless service to God. Those who devote themselves entirely to Christ experience a deep love and joy that surpasses all earthly bonds. Only when Christ fully fills our hearts do we stop asking for the slightest requirement for heaven, but instead strive for complete alignment with His will.

Nevertheless, many find it difficult to take this step. People cling to their old nature out of fear of change or because they are aware of their own weakness. But God demands nothing impossible. The only prerequisite for complete devotion is the decision to surrender our will to God. Once we entrust ourselves to Him, He works in us to will and to act according to His good pleasure (Philippians 2:13).

Summary: The Choice Between Slavery and Freedom

Chapter 5 clearly shows that devotion to God is a conscious decision. Every person faces the choice: either to remain in the slavery of sin or to experience the wonderful freedom of being a child of God. This devotion is not passive but requires an active decision to let go of our self and completely entrust our lives to Christ.

God does not force anyone into submission; rather, He calls us in love and patience. Those who recognize His love will not ask how little they must do, but will be willing to give everything. Yet this step demands courage, humility, and trust in God’s promises.

Ultimately, it is the free will of each person that determines whether they accept or reject God’s offer. Those who surrender their will to God experience a complete transformation—a new life characterized by faith, love, and true freedom.

 *  *  *  *  *

The Keys to True Devotion to God:

1.Complete Devotion to God is Necessary for Renewal

• Our sinful nature has estranged us from God, and only through total devotion can spiritual restoration occur. God does not force us into submission but invites us to seek Him with all our heart (Jeremiah 29:13-14).

2.The Battle Against One’s Own Self is the Greatest Challenge

• The greatest obstacle on the path to God is our own will. Total submission of our personality to God’s will requires humility and self-sacrifice. Without this devotion, true change cannot occur.

3.God Accepts No Forced Worship

• God desires a voluntary decision for Him. Forced devotion would be meaningless, as it would engage neither our heart nor our mind (Isaiah 1:18).

4.Devotion Means Letting Go of Worldly Attachments

• Everything that separates us from God—be it wealth, fame, comfort, or self-will—must be relinquished. Jesus demands that we give Him priority over everything else (Luke 14:33).

5.The Decision to Devote Oneself Leads to True Freedom

• Those who completely surrender to Christ experience the true freedom of being God’s children. This devotion does not result in loss, but in gain—the liberation from sin, peace with God, and a life filled with His love and grace.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/19-02-2025-philemon-chapter-1-believe-his-prophets/