3/17/24 Sermon Notes of "Rewards of Righteousness Part 2" - Part 3 of Suffering & Grace Series by Pastor Sam Merigala 2024

"Rewards of Righteousness Part 2" - Part 3 of Suffering & Grace Series by Pastor Sam Merigala 2024

 Summary

In the heavenly realm, God's council includes a being known as Satan, who challenges God's people. God allows Satan to test Job, a righteous man, revealing the hidden nature of human character and the importance of faith in God's sovereignty, even amidst suffering. The story explores the complexities of good and evil, the limitations of human understanding, and the ultimate triumph of God's purpose.

Who comprised the members of the heavenly cabinet?

The heavenly cabinet, also known as "the sons of God", comprised beings whose existence is derivative from God (hence "sons") but whose rank is superhuman. These beings appear as messengers to do God's bidding.

Explain the role of the satan in "God's satan" and how it relates to the sovereignty of God.

The satan's role in "God's satan" highlights the sovereignty of God.

• satan challenges God's creation: He questions God's belief that Job is a righteous man and claims that Job only serves God due to the prosperity he receives. This challenge reflects the idea that even in the presence of evil, God remains in control.

• God permits satan's actions: Despite God's sovereignty, He gives satan authority to test Job's faith. This shows that God allows evil to exist for a purpose, even though He is not the cause of it.

• Job's faith remains: Despite satan's efforts, Job's faith is not shaken, proving that God's sovereignty extends to the hearts and minds of his followers.

• satan serves God's purposes: Ultimately, satan's actions serve God's plan to strengthen Job's faith and demonstrate the extent of his sovereignty. By allowing satan to test Job, God ultimately reveals His absolute power and control over all things.

Is the satan an equal of God in power and influence?

The satan is not an equal of God in power and influence.

• God is introduced as sovereign over all the earth, the satan is one of His creations. 

• God is not so distant that He does not govern, not so powerful that He does not allow freedom, and not so independent that He does not care.

• God does not look at or have fellowship with evil and He cannot be tempted with evil. 

Does the text suggest that satan is ultimately responsible for the suffering of Job?

The text does not suggest that satan is ultimately responsible for the suffering of Job. God allows satan to test Job's faith, but it is God who ultimately controls the outcome. The text emphasizes that God is sovereign and controls all things, even the actions of satan. God uses satan's testing to strengthen Job's faith and to glorify Himself.

According to the text, what is the nature of God's sovereignty over the world in relation to the actions of satan?

God's sovereignty over the world is absolute, but He governs through the actions of various supernatural beings, including satan. Despite satan's opposition to God and his attempts to corrupt God's people, God allows these actions to take place as part of His overall plan. God's sovereignty is not compromised by satan's actions because satan is ultimately under God's control and cannot operate outside of His permissive will.

How does the author of the text refute the idea that God is not involved in the governance of the universe?

The author argues that the idea of God not being involved in the governance of the universe is false. The author presents the following evidence to support this claim:

• The author describes a scene in heaven where God presides over a council of "the sons of God" or "host of the universe". This council includes satan, who is described as "the Accuser" and who represents those who oppose God and his good people.

• The author states that God is sovereign over all the earth, and that He governs the universe. Even though God is sovereign, He is open to challenge and His creatures are endowed with the freedom to raise questions and even rebel.

• The author points out that God rejoices in His creation and that He has not given up on the world, even though He may have only one person who exemplifies His purpose on earth.

How does the Book of Job challenge traditional theological perspectives on suffering and God's involvement in it?

The Book of Job powerfully challenges conventional notions of suffering and God's role by:

• Questioning the "prosperity gospel": Job's story shows that righteousness and prosperity are not necessarily connected. Even the most devout can experience suffering.

• Presenting suffering as a test: God allows Job to suffer as a test of his faith. This challenges the idea that suffering is always a punishment for sin.

• Revealing that satan has a role in suffering: The story introduces the figure of satan as an adversary who tempts people and brings suffering.

• Emphasizing God's sovereignty: Despite satan's influence, God remains in control. He allows Job's suffering for a purpose, even though Job and others may not understand it.

• Highlighting the importance of faith and trust: Job's story teaches that even in the face of immense suffering, it is possible to maintain faith and trust in God.

What are the different perspectives on the nature of God's rule in Job?

God's rule is absolute and supreme, but not isolated. He governs the world through a hierarchy of supernatural powers, including angels and spirits. Some of these powers are evil, such as satan, but they are ultimately subject to God's authority and serve His purposes.

• Polytheism posits that the universe is governed by a multitude of gods and goddesses, with no one supreme power.

• Absolute monism asserts that the world is governed solely by one God, with no other supernatural powers.

• The biblical model portrays God as sovereign but working through a multiplicity of supernatural powers, both good and evil.

According to the biblical model, satan is a powerful but finite creature who was created by God and is ultimately subject to His authority. While satan can inflict suffering, he cannot operate outside God's decree. God's rule is not compromised by the existence of evil because He uses it to accomplish His purposes and bring about good.

What are the different views on the nature of God's government of the world?

There are three distinct views on the nature of God's government of the world. Three models for understanding the spiritual government of the world.:

• Polytheism or animism: In this view, the universe is governed by a multiplicity of gods, goddesses, and spirits, none of whom is perfect and some of which are exceedingly evil. There is no absolutely supreme god or goddess, although some are generally more powerful than others. This model leads to a universe filled with anxiety and uncertainty.

• Absolute monism: The world is governed exclusively by the supremacy of one supreme God whose will is absolute and unchallenged. What this God says goes, end of story. This view implies that no other supernatural powers exist, suggesting that God's goodness and sovereignty may potentially be incompatible. Above the visible and material universe, there is one, and only one, supernatural power, the absolute power of the Creator of Heaven and earth.

• Nuanced (Supernatural Agencies) model: The world is under the absolute authority of the Creator, who rules through various supernatural powers, including both good and evil agents. In this view, God governs the world by the means of and through the agency of a multiplicity of supernatural powers, some of whom are evil. That is to say, “the sons of God” represent powers that are greater than human powers and yet are less than God’s power. This model acknowledges the presence of evil forces, such as the Devil and his minions, but emphasizes that they operate under God's sovereignty and purpose.

How does God's governance of the world differ from the polytheist or animist model?

God's governance of the world differs from the polytheist or animist model in several key ways:

• In polytheism and animism, the universe is governed by a multiplicity of gods, goddesses, and spirits. None of these beings is perfect, and some are exceedingly evil. This results in a universe filled with anxiety and uncertainty.

• In contrast, the Bible portrays a world that lies under the absolute supremacy and sovereignty of the Creator, who has no rivals. He governs the world by the means of and through the agency of a multiplicity of supernatural powers, some of whom are evil.

• These supernatural powers, known as "the sons of God," are greater than human powers but less than God's power. They include the satan and his lying and evil spirits, who are sub-divine creatures and ultimately subject to God's authority.

• While God does not govern the world as the sole supernatural power, his sovereignty is not compromised. He governs the world through the agency of these supernatural powers, using them to fulfill his good purposes.

How does the biblical model of God's government differ from traditional polytheistic and animistic beliefs?

The biblical model of God's government differs from traditional polytheistic and animistic beliefs in that God is portrayed as the sole sovereign ruler of the universe who governs through a hierarchy of supernatural powers.

• Polytheism and animism believe in a multiplicity of gods, goddesses, and spirits, none of whom are perfect and some of which are exceedingly evil.

• Biblical model: God is the one and only true God, who is all-powerful, all-knowing, and all-good. He has created all things and governs the world through a hierarchy of supernatural powers, including angels and demons.

How does the concept of "the sons of God" relate to the hierarchical structure of God's heavenly court?

The "sons of God" concept relates to the hierarchical structure of God's heavenly court by representing beings with superhuman rank who are derivative from God. Below is more information about "the sons of God":

• They attend heavenly court meetings to present themselves before God.

• They are described as both plural and inferior to God.

• They are part of a "divine council" or heavenly cabinet that serves as God's messengers.

• One of their members is satan, who is portrayed as an adversary or opponent.

• God maintains absolute supremacy and sovereignty, but governs the world through supernatural powers, including "the sons of God."

• Despite their opposition to God, these supernatural agents, including satan, are ultimately subject to God's authority and serve his purposes.

What is the deepest truth revealed in the Book of Job that is only fully understood through the life and death of Jesus Christ?

God does not always prevent suffering, but He can use it to reveal His love, power, and mercy. This truth is illustrated in the life and death of Jesus Christ, who suffered and died to redeem humanity from sin. Just as Job's suffering led to a deeper understanding of God's character, so Jesus' suffering and death reveal the depth of God's love for us.

• Suffering can be used by God to test and refine our faith.

• Through suffering, we can learn more about God's character and His love for us.

• God can use suffering to bring about good in our lives and in the lives of others.

The deepest truth revealed in the Book of Job that is only fully understood through the life and death of Jesus Christ is that suffering is not a punishment for sin, but a necessary part of the journey to holiness.

• In the Book of Job, Job is a righteous man who suffers greatly. His friends tell him that his suffering is a punishment for his sins, but Job knows that he has not sinned.

• Jesus Christ also suffered greatly, even though he was innocent of any sin. His suffering was not a punishment, but a sacrifice for the sins of the world.

• Through the life and death of Jesus Christ, we learn that suffering is not always a sign of God's disfavor. In fact, it can be a sign of God's love, as it can help us to grow in faith and trust.

• The Book of Job teaches us that suffering is not something to be avoided, but something to be embraced. It is through suffering that we can learn the most about ourselves and about God.

Why is Job described as "God's best representative" in the eyes of God?

In the eyes of God, Job is described as "His best representative" because he is:

• A blameless and upright man who fears God and turns away from evil.

• A righteous and wealthy man who is also a loving and faithful father.

• A man of integrity who does what he says and says what he does.

• A man who trusts in God even when faced with great adversity.

How does God's governance of the world differ according to the "monist" and "dualist" models?

According to the "monist" model, God is the sole supernatural power governing the world absolutely and directly. There is no room for other supernatural agencies, and all events are ultimately traceable to God's will.

In contrast, the "dualist" model posits that God and the devil are two separate and independent supernatural powers. The world is seen as a battleground between these two forces, with human beings caught in the crossfire. This model suggests that God is not all-powerful and that His influence in the world is limited by the devil's opposition.

In what ways is satan's presence in God's council paradoxical?

satan's presence in God's council is paradoxical because he is both:

• A member of God's heavenly court: He is one of the "sons of God" who come to present themselves before the Lord (Job 1:6).

• An opponent of God's purposes: He challenges God's assessment of Job's righteousness and seeks to destroy him (Job 1:9-12).

What is the nature of the "reporting" session described in the heavenly council?

The "reporting" session in the heavenly council is a meeting in which the "sons of God" (angels) give an accounting to God for their delegated roles and responsibilities as "watchers" and "protectors" on earth. It is a glimpse into the way the world is governed, and it shows that God is sovereign, but also open to challenge. He has given his creatures freedom, and he rejoices in his creation, even though he may have only one person who exemplifies his purpose on earth.

Explain the father's role in the family.

Fathers play a vital role in families by providing spiritual guidance and emotional support. A father's role in the family is to be a spiritual leader and priest. He is responsible for teaching and guiding his children in the ways of the Lord. He is also responsible for providing for the family's needs, both physical and spiritual. The father is the head of the household and should be a model of Christ-like love and leadership.

• Fathers serve as spiritual priests in their homes, leading their families in worship and offering sacrifices for their sins.

• They communicate love and leadership to their children, creating a healthy and harmonious family environment.

• Fathers teach their children about God and His ways, helping them to develop a strong faith.

• They provide stability and support for their children, ensuring that they feel loved and secure.

• Fathers are role models for their children, demonstrating the importance of integrity, kindness, and compassion.

Why has Job been chosen as God's best representative on Earth?

Job was chosen as God's best representative on Earth because he was considered a man of blameless and upright character. In the eyes of both God and man, Job was seen as a righteous and devout individual who consistently obeyed God's commandments and lived according to his principles. Job's integrity and unwavering faith in the face of adversity and suffering made him an exemplary model of human virtue and devotion.

What does the "hedge" around Job represent?

The "hedge" around Job represents God's protection and blessing.

• God placed the hedge around Job to protect him from the satan's attacks.

• The hedge is a symbol of God's covenant with Job and His faithfulness to His people.

• Even though the satan is allowed to test Job, he is not allowed to destroy him.

• The hedge is a reminder that God is in control and that He will not allow His people to be destroyed.

How does the author's depiction of the governing powers illustrate the complex interplay between God's sovereignty and human freedom?

The author's depiction of the governing powers in Job illustrates the complex interplay between God's sovereignty and human freedom by highlighting God's absolute authority and his employment of lower-order spiritual beings in governing the world.

• God's sovereignty: The depiction of God as sovereign over all creation and the heavenly council emphasizes his supreme authority. He governs the world through the "sons of God," but he remains the ultimate decision-maker and ruler.

• Human freedom: Despite God's sovereignty, the presence of the satan and his challenge to God's authority demonstrates that God grants freedom to his creatures, even those who may oppose him. This tension between God's sovereignty and human freedom addresses the questions about the nature of evil and God's responsibility for it.

• The role of lower-order spiritual beings: The "sons of God" and the satan represent supernatural powers that act as intermediaries between God and the world. God uses these beings to carry out his purposes, but they retain a degree of autonomy and agency. This highlights the complexity of spiritual governance and the multifaceted nature of God's interactions with the created order.

How does the Book of Job challenge traditional theological perspectives on suffering and God's involvement in it?

According to the Book of Job:

• God's sovereignty does not eliminate the reality of evil and suffering: God is portrayed as being in control of the universe, yet he allows evil and suffering to exist. This challenges the idea that God will protect and always prevent bad things from happening to his people.

• Human suffering can have a purpose: Through Job's experience, the book suggests that suffering can be used to test faith, bring about repentance, and ultimately glorify God. This challenges the idea that all suffering is a punishment for sin or a sign of God's displeasure.

• God's relationship with his people is complex: Job's experience shows that God's love for his people does not guarantee a life free from pain and suffering. God's ways are often mysterious, and his purposes may not always be clear to us. This challenges the idea that God will always meet our expectations.

What does the author suggest about the nature of the spiritual battle that Christians face?

The spiritual battle that Christians face is not against mere humans, but against supernatural spiritual forces that are opposed to God.

• The author describes a heavenly council where God and his "sons" (i.e., angels) meet to discuss the governance of the world.

• Among these "sons" is the satan, who is described as an "adversary" who opposes God and his people.

• The satan is allowed by God to test Job's faith, showing that even the most righteous individuals are subject to attack from spiritual forces.

• This suggests that Christians face a spiritual battle that is not physical, but rather a battle against unseen powers that seek to undermine their faith and lead them astray.

How does the author contrast the earthly and heavenly realms in the Book of Job?

The author contrasts the earthly and heavenly realms by depicting the heavenly realm as a place of order, authority, and divine glory, while the earthly realm is a place of suffering, testing, and human frailty.

• Heavenly realm:

• Described as a council meeting where God presides over "the sons of God" or "host of the universe".

• God is portrayed as sovereign, governing the universe and paying infinite attention to it.

• God's nature is characterized by openness to challenge, allowing creatures freedom to raise questions and rebel.

• The heavenly realm is a place of divine glory and perfect order, where God's authority is undisputed.

• Earthly realm:

• Depicted as a place of suffering, testing, and human frailty.

• Job's story unfolds on earth, where he endures great trials and challenges his faith.

• The earthly realm is characterized by uncertainty, pain, and the complexities of human nature.

How does the author reconcile the sovereignty of God with the presence of evil in the world?

The author reconciles the sovereignty of God with the presence of evil in the world by presenting a model of the universe that is neither monist nor dualist.

• In a monist model, the world is governed absolutely and simply by one God. This model implies that God is responsible for all that happens in the world and is the cause of evil. However, the book of Job presents a more nuanced and complex picture of the world.

• In a dualist model, the world is governed by the outcome of an ongoing contest between God and the devil, who are thought of as pretty much equal and opposite powers battling it out for supremacy. This model also implies that God is not fully sovereign over the world. However, the book of Job portrays God as the absolute sovereign over the world.

The author's model of the universe acknowledges that there are supernatural powers in the world that are less than God but greater than humans, and that some of these powers are evil. These powers are not independent of God but are subject to his authority and are used by him to fulfill his purposes.

In the book of Job, the author uses the character of satan to represent these evil powers. satan is not an independent agent but is subject to God's authority. God allows satan to test Job in order to prove his faith and to show that he is not serving God for selfish reasons.

Through the story of Job, the author shows that God is not the cause of evil in the world, but that he uses evil for his own good purposes. God is not responsible for the suffering of the innocent, but he can use suffering to bring about good.

How does the author depict the relationship between God and evil?

The author depicts the relationship between God and evil as one in which God has sovereignty over evil without being culpable for it.

• God created all things, including satan, who is a finite creature and no match for God.

• satan is a sub-divine being who opposes God and his good people.

• God uses satan in his government of the world to fulfill his good purposes.

• satan is never outside of God's decree.

• God is not responsible for the evil in the world, but he uses it for his glory and our good.

What, according to the text, is the ultimate purpose of satan's suffering?

satan's suffering is ultimately for the glory of God and the good of believers.

• God is sovereign over all things, even over satan.

• God uses satan to fulfill His good purposes, even in allowing him to suffer.

• satan's suffering can lead to the growth and sanctification of believers.

• satan's suffering can also help to demonstrate the power and goodness of God.

What does the conversation between God and the satan reveal about the character of each?

In the celestial dialogue between God and satan, the book of Job provides valuable insights into the nature of these two entities. Let's examine the conversation to understand what it unveils about their characters:

Revealing God's Character:

• Sovereignty and Control: The conversation takes place in God's court, where He holds the position of a supreme ruler. He summons the "sons of God," including satan, to report on their tasks.

• Compassion and Mercy: God initiates the dialogue by highlighting Job's righteousness, demonstrating His love and care for His servants. He is not distant or indifferent, but involved and concerned with the well-being of humanity.

• Openness to Questioning and Challenge: God allows satan to present objections. This reveals that despite His sovereignty, He values freedom and allows individuals, even rebellious ones, to raise questions and voice their concerns.

• Desire for Holiness and Perfection: God seeks to prove Job's integrity and faithfulness. This suggests that He sets a high standard for purity and righteousness.

Unveiling satan's Character:

• Accusatory Nature: satan serves as an accuser, questioning the sincerity of Job's devotion and suggesting that he only serves God for personal gain.

• Scepticism and Doubt: satan challenges Job's righteousness, implying that he is not truly blameless and that his prosperity is not evidence of his relationship with God.

• Tempting and Testing: satan proposes to test Job by exposing him to suffering. This reveals his desire to create turmoil and doubt, exploiting vulnerabilities to break down individuals' trust in God.

• Limited Power: While satan has the ability to inflict pain and suffering, it is only within the boundaries set by God. He cannot act independently or overstep the limits imposed by the Creator.

What is the significance of the length of the Book of Job and why is it essential to the exploration of the themes of suffering and faith?

The length of the Book of Job is essential to its exploration of the themes of suffering and faith for several reasons:

• Complexity of the Themes: The Book of Job grapples with profound and multifaceted themes, including the nature of suffering, the existence of evil, and the limits of human understanding. Its length allows for a detailed and nuanced exploration of these complex issues from multiple perspectives.

• Character Development: Job, the protagonist, undergoes a significant journey of transformation and growth throughout the book. The length enables the narrative to trace his evolution from a prosperous man to a devastated one, ultimately to a man who finds peace in his relationship with God.

• Diverse Dialogues: The book's length allows for extensive dialogue between Job and his friends, as well as between God and other characters. These dialogues provide a variety of insights and arguments, exploring different viewpoints on suffering, faith, and the nature of God.

• Sustained Exploration: The duration of the book allows the author to return repeatedly to the themes of suffering and faith, exploring them from different angles and perspectives. This sustained examination emphasizes the significance and depth of these themes.

How does the scene in Heaven in Job 1:6-12 challenge the theological view of Deism?

Deism challenged by the Heavenly Scene in Job 1:6-12

Deism Deism is a theological view that holds that God created the universe and set it in motion like a clock, but does not intervene in its operation. Deists believe that God is distant and uninterested in the affairs of humans, and that the universe operates according to natural laws.

Scene in Heaven in Job 1:6-12

• This scene depicts a heavenly council where God presides over "the sons of God."

• satan enters the council and reports that he has been roaming the earth.

• God points out Job as an example of a righteous and blameless man.

• satan challenges God's assessment, suggesting that Job only worships God because of the blessings he has received.

Challenge to Deism

This scene calls into question the Deist view of God in several ways:

• Divine Intervention: God's active involvement in the council and his direct interaction with Job indicate that he is not a distant and uninvolved creator.

• God's Concern for Humans: God's attention to Job's faithfulness demonstrates that he cares deeply about the affairs of humans.

• Spiritual Conflict: The presence of satan in the heavenly council and his challenge to God's authority show that the universe is not simply governed by natural laws, but that there is a spiritual realm where good and evil forces are at play.

• Testing of Faith: God's allowance of satan's test demonstrates that he is not only concerned with testing Job's faithfulness but also with demonstrating the power and sovereignty of his reign.

What implications does the presence of evil agencies in the context have for our understanding of God's sovereignty?

Evil Agencies and God's Sovereignty

• The presence of evil agencies, such as satan, indicates that God does not directly control every aspect of the world (Dualism).

• While God retains ultimate sovereignty, He allows certain supernatural powers, including the Devil, to influence events within constraints (Monism)

• Evil agents oppose God and His people, but operate under His decree and ultimately serve His purposes (God's satan)

• God's character as sovereign, creator, and governor remains intact, despite the presence of evil (Sovereignty over Evil)

• God allows challenges and freedom, but rejoices in those who remain faithful amidst adversity (Openness to Challenge)

How does the author use the concept of "the council of God" to portray God's character?

The author uses the concept of "the council of God" to stress God's sovereignty, openness to challenge, and moral governance over the universe.

• Sovereignty: God presides over a heavenly council, demonstrating his ultimate authority and control.

• Openness to Challenge: Despite his sovereignty, God allows creatures to question and even rebel, indicating his respect for freedom.

• Moral Governance: God is not distant or indifferent but closely governs his creation, ensuring moral order and attending to the actions of individuals like Job.

• Rejoicing in Creation: God takes pleasure in his creation, especially those who exemplify his purpose on Earth, even in the face of challenges.

How does the author depict the relationship between God and the satan in the heavenly council?

According to the author, God and satan have a complex relationship in the heavenly council.

• God is sovereign and has ultimate authority over all creation, including satan.

• satan is a created being who is subject to God's authority.

• God allows satan to challenge Him and test His people, but ultimately, satan's power is limited.

• God uses satan to fulfill His good purposes, even though satan's intentions are evil.

• God's relationship with satan is not one of fellowship, but rather one of government.

What is the role of the heavenly council in the government of the universe?

In the government of the universe, the heavenly council assists God in carrying out his sovereign will. They are the "sons of God" and play a role as God's divine messengers and advisors. They are "messengers to do God’s bidding" and "serve as messengers to do God’s bidding". They are subordinate to God and present themselves to him to carry out his will. In the story of Job, satan, who is a member of the heavenly council, challenges God's assessment of Job's righteousness and sets out to test him. Through this test, the heavenly council witnesses God's sovereignty and the unwavering faith of Job.