A 15 messages series on the doctrine of God's Providence
Application #4 – Be Optimistic
September 9, 2022 • Dr. John Neufeld • Romans 8:28
The dictionary defines optimism as a perspective which sees the favourable side of life. Many rest their optimism on the shoulders of their skills, resources or even luck. Dr. John reminds us that smiling at the future is possible not because of our capacity or actions, but because of God's providence. We can embrace the favourable side of life and eternity because God is in charge. This brings hope, courage and a smile.
Application #3 – Live by Faith
September 8, 2022 • Dr. John Neufeld • Hebrews 11:1–6
"What difference does a healthy biblical view of God's providence make in every day life?" Dr. John asks and answers this pivotal question. We are reminded to live by faith in our sovereign God. The faith that makes a difference is faith that believes in God's providence, trusts His wise governance, and then orders life in response to His purposes.
Application #2 – Be Joyful
September 7, 2022 • Dr. John Neufeld • Philippians 1:18
Every complaint we make about the weather, our health, traffic or neighbours is an insult to the providential work of God. Our complaints suggest that either God is not doing enough, or we don’t like what He is doing! Dr. John points us to Paul's experience in a Roman jail, and the joy Paul felt despite harsh circumstance. Knowing that God rules over every detail of our lives is cause not only for gratitude, but for deep joy.
Application #1 – Fear Not
September 6, 2022 • Dr. John Neufeld • Acts 17
Fear is at play in our lives more often than we care to admit. We worry about our health, our family, climate changes, community violence and international tensions. We worry that no one seems to be in charge. But God is! He governs this world every minute. "Fear not," is God's assurance and command. We take courage, not because the dangers are illusionary, but because God rules over all. We can trust Him.
God's Providence for His Glory and Our Good
September 5, 2022 • Dr. John Neufeld • Romans 8:28
Every parent has heard their child ask, "Why?" Children can't understand the complexities of life, and the wise actions of parents confuse them. With God, we are the children. Often we look heavenward and ask, "Why?" The mysteries of Earth and Heaven are hidden within the providential wisdom of God. Dr. John assures us that while we may be baffled by God's ways, we can trust His goodness and care.
Why Christians Aren’t Fatalists
September 2, 2022 • Dr. John Neufeld • 2 Timothy 2:10
An old song says, "Que sera sera - whatever will be, will be." It is the song of a fatalist. Fatalism is driving on a set road heading to a pre-set destination, regardless of what happens. Is fatalism the same as God's providence? Dr. John walks us through the Scriptures to understand the difference. We will seee that God executes His determined design through the willing obedience of His people. What we are and do matters to God!
The Value of Prayer
September 1, 2022 • Dr. John Neufeld • James 4:2
How do we pray in the face of God's sovereign reign? Doesn't God already know what we need? Isn't God arranging all of creation according to His plan? What difference will my prayers make? Listen as Dr. John teaches about the role of prayer in God's plans. We find from the Scriptures that prayer tutors us in the ways and heart of God.
But Are We Truly Free?
August 31, 2022 • Dr. John Neufeld • Romans 3:10–11
Inevitably, as we consider the providential rule of God over creation, we have to ask this question, "How does the rule of God intersect my own free choices? If I am free to make my own decisions, how is God in control?" Dr. John helps us understand the Biblical teaching of our free will. What are we free to do?
Two Wills in God - A Little Exercise in Theology
August 30, 2022 • Dr. John Neufeld • Psalm 115:3
There are things we want but cannot do. There are things we can do, but do not want. Is it the same for God? When we consider the sovereign rule of God over creation, we have to explore the nature of His will. Listen as Dr. John unfolds the Scriptures about the will of God in our world and in our lives.
God Rules Over Good and Evil
August 29, 2022 • Dr. John Neufeld • Lamentations 3:38
The wrongs of this life are obvious. Violence. Exploitation. Cruelty. Destruction. We see instances of evil daily. We are grieved, angered and confused. Why doesn’t God do something about this? Can God do something about this? Listen as Dr. John demonstrates that God's rule over this Earth includes His reign over the sins of this world. We can take hope that nothing will defeat God's plan - not even sin.
God Rules All Human Lives
August 26, 2022 • Dr. John Neufeld • Psalm 139
Are the conditions of our lives happenstance? Where we are born? How tall we are? Our mental, emotional and spiritual capacities? Dr. John demonstrates Biblically that our lives - and every aspect of them - are products of God's providence. This message gives us cause for joy and gratitude over God's care for each one of us.
God Rules the Nations
August 25, 2022 • Dr. John Neufeld • Psalm 22:27–28
It's a feat of management skill to get a family of 5 out the door on time. It's another matter to control a large company or even a small country. But the Bible teaches that God rules over all people - all families, companies and countries - and all at the same time! Listen as Dr. John reviews the Scriptrues that grant us confidence in the Headship of Jesus over this earth.
According to the Purpose of His Will
August 24, 2022 • Dr. John Neufeld • Ephesians 1:11
We talk about the weather daily. Many of our words are complaints. We see it as random chance whether we can enjoy sunshine or endure rain. Dr. John will show us that even the clouds and wind follow God's direction. Providence means that all of creation, animate or inanimate has a trajectory. Everything is moved by God towards His purposes.
In Him all things Hold Together
August 23, 2022 • Dr. John Neufeld • Colossians 1:17
If God did something different each day, how would you know it was God doing it? Dr. John will demonstrate that the consistency of God's actions In creation provide a foundation for science, but more so for hope to us all. Every day God upholds His creation in consistent ways - all for His glory and our good.
We tend to think that chance is the cause for the weather, traffic, our place of birth and lot in life. But beleivers know that Providence rules instead of chance. Listen to this 5 week series of Dr. John as he unpacks the teaching of Scripture about Providence. You will marvel with gratitude over God's rule of this world and stand in a place of hope.
What We Mean by Providence
August 22, 2022 • Dr. John Neufeld • Hebrews 1:3
Are we do live by the principles of chance and change in this life? Do we simply trust luck - good or bad? If that is all we have to rely on - then insecurity and depair will dominate. Dr. John points us to different Biblical foundation. Jesus hold this universe together by the power of His Word. We do not rely on luck but the benevolent omnipotence of our Lord. Listen and be encouraged.
We tend to think that chance is the cause for the weather, traffic, our place of birth and lot in life. But beleivers know that Providence rules instead of chance. Listen to this 5 week series of Dr. John as he unpacks the teaching of Scripture about Providence. You will marvel with gratitude over God's rule of this world and stand in a place of hope.
