GOD’S WILL. Used in two ways in the Bible: Col.1:9-12; 4:12; Rom.12:1-2; Eph.2:10. SOVEREIGN WILL. God’s secret plan determines everything in the universe: Dan.4:35; Pro.21:1; Rev.4:11; Eph.1:1; Pro.16:33; Rom.9:19; Acts 2:23; 4:27-28; Rom.11:33-36. MORAL WILL. God’s revealed commands in the Bible that teach how men ought to believe and live. Rom 2:18; 1Thes.5:18; 4:3; 2Cor.6:14 plus all other commands in the scripture. It is the moral will of God that men trust Christ. It is the sovereign will of God that all those who do will have eternal life. The scripture emphasizes God’s moral will, which follows these basic principles. THE NATURE OF GOD’S MORAL WILL:
- It is the expression, in behavioral terms, of God’s character.
- It touches every aspect of life: goals, attitudes, and means (why, how, when, what).
- It is fully revealed in the Bible.
- It can equip believers for every good work.
What a blessing it is when a door of welcome opens to us. Paul's request to go to Rome was answered, although in a way that was different from what he had anticipated. The means of accomplishing his calling to take the Gospel to Gentiles and kings were not always made plain as to every step and stopping place on the journey. The overriding principle of Christian service never got overlooked, though, as he planned to fulfill his work. The will of God was the deciding factor as to how things would come to pass. A faithful servant can always count on a faithful God.