Understanding Promises in the Bible: The Perspective of God
The Bible is a complex and multifaceted text, filled with divine promises, commands, and stories that challenge our understanding of God's character and intentions. One such element is the idea of keeping promises. While some may question God's actions and motivations, a thorough exploration of the text reveals a deeper, more nuanced perspective.
Divine Immutability and Promise-Keeping
Proverbs 19:20 states, 'He who tends his fig tree will eat its fruit, and he who attends to his vineyard will have rich yields.' This speaks to the importance of diligence and commitment, not just from humanity, but also from God. However, a key question arises: does God keep His promises?
Genesis 6:7-13 provides an intriguing glimpse into God's perspective on human behavior and promises:
Then the LORD said, 'I will no longer
keep my covenant with them"
(Adam and Eve)
(NIV)
because they are corrupt; the earth is filled with violence through them." (verse 11)
This passage suggests that God's initial covenant included a predisposition to sin. In response to the wickedness, God decides to send a flood and destroy the earth. Despite this drastic measure, God stored water in the heavens to repel the threat, which eventually led to the survival of Noah and his family. This begs the question: if God knew the future, why was the initial covenant broken?
God's Unwavering Resolve and Perseverance
Isaiah 40:28 asserts God's eternal and unchanging nature, stating, 'Do you not know? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.' This verse emphasizes God's unchanging commitments and the unwavering nature of His promises.
However, the text of the Bible often shows God's willingness to break or re-evaluate His promises. For example, in Isaiah 54:9-17, despite earlier plans, God eventually fulfills His promises to His people. This volatility in God's promises can be seen as a reflection of the complex nature of divine intentions and the need for human responsiveness.
The Adversity of Human Misunderstanding
The actions of historical figures, such as Adolf Hitler, raise further questions about God's involvement and the fulfillment of promises. In Isaiah 54:10, God promises, 'For you will no longer be ashamed; you will never again pity the objects of your shame. For you will forget the shame of your youth and not remember the reproach of your widowhood anymore.' This promise promised vindication, yet, as history shows, evil and injustice still persist.
Hitler's actions demonstrate the deep-seated disparity between the promises of the Bible and the reality of human history. Hitler had the means to fulfill some of God's promises, such as the use of gas chambers and ovens, yet the ultimate outcome was not the anticipated deliverance and peace.
Comparative Perspectives and Human Expectations
Jeremiah 15:1-3 highlights a challenging interaction between God and the prophet:
Then the LORD said to me: ‘If you can break my covenant with the day and my covenant with the night, so that day and night take turn to happen at the time I appointed them and if you can break my covenant with my servant David—the agreement to provide him with offspring, so he will have sons always to sit on the throne of Israel—then I will break my covenant with you
Despite God's solemn promises, the prophet still questions and challenges them. This reflects a common human tendency to doubt divine promises and question divine actions.
Exodus 5:22 records Moses' plea to God: 'Moses said, “But suppose the Israelites won't listen to me; suppose they won't believe me and say, 'The LORD didn't appear to you.’”' Moses' retort emphasizes God's consistent willingness to intervene and fulfill His promises, even when circumstances are dire.
Conclusion: Upholding Divine Promises
The Bible presents a complex narrative of divine promises and human responses. While God's actions and resolve are often questioned, the text ultimately underscores His unwavering commitment to fulfilling His promises. Understanding these nuances requires a deeper dive into both the text and the historical and cultural contexts in which these events occurred.
Biblical Promises
God's Unchanging Nature: Isaiah 40:28 Breaking Promises: Isaiah 40:28, Isaiah 54:9-17 Covenants with David: Jeremiah 15:1-3 Moses' Appeal: Exodus 5:22By examining these elements, we can better understand the role of promises in the Bible and how they guide both divine and human actions.