Introduction:

1. At face value, this statement seems reasonable enough, and depending on how it is used, it can be true.

2. However, the way many use it is biblically inaccurate.

Discussion:

I. Misuses of the Idea

A. Some claim God causes everything that happens to happen.

B. Growing out of this, people excuse sinful behaviors by claiming everything happens for a reason when sin’s consequences arise.

C. Painfully, people often try to soften a tragedy with this phrase.

II. Alleged Biblical Foundations

A. The kernel of this concept grows largely out of Romans 8:28-30.

B. The Bible does speak to God bringing His ends from any situation.

C. However, the Bible does not uphold the deterministic philosophy.

III. Aligning The Text with The Truth

A. Romans 8:28-30 teaches that God will bring about the ultimate good of those who serve Him.

B. Other passages reiterate this position (Genesis 45:5-8; 50:20; 1 Corinthians 10:13; 2 Timothy 1:12; 2 Peter 1:8-12).

C. These passages do not teach that God is the reason everything happens (Deuteronomy 30:15-18; Joshua 24:15; 1 Timothy 2:4-5; 2 Peter 3:9).

IV. Practical Implications of The Position

A. If God causes everything, He is responsible for all things.

B. If this is true, God is the cause of evil, pain, and suffering.

C. Likewise, He is the cause of sinful behaviors.

1. God does work whatever happens to the good of His people.

2. This does not mean He makes everything happen.

3. So, while it is true there is a reason everything happens, not everything happens for a reason.

4. Sin caused bad things to happen, not God (Genesis 3:14-19; Romans 5:12).