God's Purposes

"By faith we understand that the universe was formed at God's command, so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible" (Heb 11:3 NIV). The NASB translates "the worlds were prepared by the word of God" (:3). God's command is equivalent to the word of God. Words are spoken. "The Lord God commanded the man [Adam], 'You are free to eat from any tree in the garden'" (Ge 2:16). Adam's choice was not limited. However, a command is an authoritative instruction which likely contains a consequence for not following the directive. Therefore God explained, "'You must not eat from the tree of knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you shall surely die" (:16).

God told Isaiah, "'I am God, and there is no one like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things which have not been done, saying, My purpose will be established, and I will accomplish all My good pleasure'" (Isa 46:9-10). "'Behold, the former things have come to pass, now I declare new things; before they spring forth I proclaim them to you'" (42:9). What God plans happens. He predicts future events. "'Do not tremble and do not be afraid; have I not long since announced it to you and declared it" And you are My witnesses'" (44:8). Daniel exclaimed, "'Wisdom and power belong to Him. And it is He who changes the times and the epochs'" (Da 2:20-21). "'It is He who reveals the profound and hidden things'" (:22). Are there alternatives? "'I am the first and I am the last, and there is no God besides Me'" (Isa 44:6). "'The King of Jacob says. Let them bring forth and declare to us what is going to take place'" (41:22). "Surely there was no one who declared" (:26).