Understanding Omnipotence: The Role of Sin in a God-Created Universe

From the depths of the universe to the tiniest particles, everything in existence is a testament to the creative power of God. Yet, an often-discussed conundrum arises when considering the presence of evil and sin in a universe allegedly created by an omnipotent and morally perfect God. This article delves into the biblical perspective on this issue, illuminating how these concepts coexist harmoniously within divine creation.

God’s Creation Through Jesus Christ

God’s power and omnipresence are embodied in His son, Jesus Christ. The Bible firmly asserts that God created the universe, including evil, through Christ. Colossians 1:16 (For by him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities. All things were created by him and for him.) This passage clearly indicates that God used His perfect son to create all things, even those perceived as evil, to fulfill His divine will.

The Greatness of Jesus Christ

The nature of Jesus Christ is further emphasized in Luke 18:19, where Jesus responds to a man who calls Him 'good'. Christ insists that only God is truly good, affirming His own sinless nature. This is reinforced in 1 Peter 3:18, where it is stated that Jesus, (Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God.) This passage also highlights the extent of His suffering and the ultimate victory gained through His resurrection, marking Him as the perfect sacrifice for humanity.

Satan’s Rule and God’s Sovereignty

While evil and sin are prominent in the world, it is crucial to recognize the sovereignty of God over all. 2 Corinthians 4:4 declares, (Satan who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ who is the exact likeness of God.) This indicates that Satan has control over those who reject God, but not over believers in Christ.

God’s power is also showcased in passages like Isaiah 45:7, which states, (I create the light and make the darkness. I send good times and bad times. I the Lord am the one who does these things.) Similarly, Deuteronomy 32:39 (Look now I myself am he! There is no other god but me! I am the one who kills and gives life. I am the one who wounds and heals. No one can be rescued from my powerful hand!)

Christ’s Exaltation and Glory

Philippians 2:9-11 further elaborates on the role of Christ, stating, (Therefore God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father.) This underscores the central role of Christ in the universe and His ultimate sovereignty.

The Demoniac and Divine Intervention

Further evidence of God's presence and intervention in the world is seen in the story of the demon-possessed man in Luke 8:27-28. When Jesus Christ confronted this man, who was under the dominion of demons, the man immediately recognized Him as the “Most High God” and implored Him not to torment him. This passage highlights the very real and practical results of Christ’s intervention in the world, ultimately leading to the man's deliverance and the manifestation of God’s power over evil.

Providence and Divine Purposes

The Proverbs 16:4 (The Lord has made everything for his own purposes, even the wicked for a day of disaster.) illustrates that even seemingly negative elements in the world have a purpose within God's plan. While evil and sin bring about temporal hardships, they are ultimately subsumed within the overarching plan of God.

Evidence of Omnipotence: A Universal Redemptive Scheme

From these texts, it is evident that God’s omnipotence is not hindered by evil and sin, but rather, they are used by God to accomplish His larger redemptive plan. By maintaining His sovereignty and power over both good and evil, God ultimately ensures the triumph of His will.

Conclusion

Through the lens of scripture, we can discern that God's creation includes the existence of evil and sin, but it does not diminish His omnipotence. Instead, it serves as a testimony to the complexity of His plan and the depth of His love, intertwining even the most difficult circumstances with His ultimate redemptive purpose.