Our God is in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased
William MacDonald emphasizes the absolute sovereignty of God, highlighting that God’s perfect will governs all things and calls for reverent submission and trust from believers.
In this sermon, William MacDonald explores the profound truth of God's sovereignty, emphasizing that God reigns supreme over all creation and does whatever pleases Him perfectly. Drawing from Scripture and historical testimonies, he encourages believers to respond with awe, submission, and trust. MacDonald highlights the comfort found in knowing that God's plans are flawless and that every circumstance is woven according to His divine purpose.
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“Our God is in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.” (Psa. 115:3)
God is sovereign. That means that He is the supreme Ruler of the universe, and that He can do as He pleases. But having said that, we must quickly add that what God pleases is always right. His way is perfect.
Isaiah quotes the Lord as saying, “My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my Pleasure” (Isa. 46:10). When Nebuchadnezzar was restored to his right mind, he said, “He doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?” (Dan. 4:35). The Apostle Paul insists that man has no right to question God’s actions: “Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?” (Rom. 9:20). And in another place he speaks of God as the One “who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will” (Eph. 1:11).
Spurgeon said, “We proclaim an enthroned God, and His right to do as He wills with His own, to dispose of His creatures as He thinks well, without consulting them in the matter.”
To put it very simply, the doctrine of the sovereignty of God is a doctrine that allows God to be God.
It is a truth that fills me with reverence and awe. I cannot comprehend all its ramifications, but I can worship and adore.
It is a truth that moves me to submit myself to Him. He is the Potter; I am the clay. He has rights to me by creation and redemption. Under no circumstances should I talk back to Him or question His decisions.
It is a truth that is full of comfort. Since He is the supreme Ruler, I know that He is working out His purposes and that they will reach their desired end.
Though there are things in life I can’t understand, I can be sure that the dark threads are as necessary for His weaving as the threads of gold and silver.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Nature of God's Sovereignty
- God is the supreme ruler of the universe
- God does whatever He pleases perfectly
- His will is always right and just
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II. Biblical Affirmations of Sovereignty
- Isaiah’s declaration of God’s unchanging counsel
- Nebuchadnezzar’s testimony of God’s uncontested authority
- Paul’s teaching on man’s inability to question God
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III. The Response of Believers
- Reverence and awe toward God’s sovereignty
- Submission as the clay to the Potter
- Comfort in trusting God’s perfect plan
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IV. Practical Implications
- Accepting God’s will even when it is hard to understand
- Recognizing God’s control over all life’s circumstances
- Living with confidence in God’s ultimate purpose
Key Quotes
“Our God is in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.” — William MacDonald
“The doctrine of the sovereignty of God is a doctrine that allows God to be God.” — William MacDonald
“Though there are things in life I can’t understand, I can be sure that the dark threads are as necessary for His weaving as the threads of gold and silver.” — William MacDonald
Application Points
- Submit to God's authority in all areas of life, trusting His perfect will.
- Find comfort in God's sovereign control even during difficult circumstances.
- Avoid questioning God's decisions and instead worship Him with reverence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does it mean that God is sovereign?
It means God is the supreme ruler over all creation and has the absolute right and power to do as He pleases.
Can we question God's decisions according to this sermon?
No, the sermon teaches that man has no right to question God’s actions because His will is perfect and just.
How should believers respond to God's sovereignty?
Believers should respond with reverence, submission, and trust, recognizing God’s authority and perfect plan.
Does God's sovereignty provide comfort?
Yes, knowing God is in control assures believers that all things work together according to His purpose.
What biblical examples support God's sovereignty?
Examples include Isaiah’s prophecy, Nebuchadnezzar’s testimony, and Paul’s teachings in Romans and Ephesians.