TH101 Introduction to Theology
Tutorial Essay: Does God protect us?
Christians believe that by faith God protects them during their mortal life, moreover after their time on this earth comes to an end, with being promised salvation and an eternal dwelling in the Kingdom of God (Plantinga 2000). This protection is stated in many verses through out the bible, “Then Jesus said to him, ‘Go your way; your faith has made you well.’ Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus on the road.” (Mk. 10:52) Taking scripture readings for face value can sometimes lead to misinterpretations of the protection that God provides. The tutorial reading “Does God protect us? Security check.” by Scott Bader-Saye, responds to the way God protects us
Bader-Saye provides the story of Joseph in Genesis as an example to demonstrate overaccepting, “Even though you intended to do harm to me, God intended it for good” (Gen. 50:20). As a result of overaccepting one must believe that the end result will be good, because God epitomises good. “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.” (Phil 2:13) The most powerful example of overaccepting is the crucifixion of Jesus, he accepts the evil done to him to fulfill the will of God, and to accomplish the reason for his being. This tells us a great deal about how God acts in the world. If God does not use influencing power to block evil and suffering, then why should we expect God to manipulate the painful circumstances from which we seek. Bader-Saye concludes by stating that the seeking of the kingdom of God should be our first priority, being safe and secure in our personal lives should not take preference over being faithful. If being faithful leads to suffering or harm, then one should take security in Gods providence and redemption. One must trust that God will reincorporate all things in the heavenly city (Bader-Saye 2007).
To grasp the concept of overaccepting can be quite trying during difficult times, it often tests ones faith to the limit. Some people who once believed in God’s providence eventually give up on God all together because