Wednesday Night Bible Class - Richard Sutton - April 8th
Teachers
Lesson Summary
In this Wednesday night session, Richard Sutton opened by celebrating the congregation’s perseverance and mutual support during the COVID‑19 lockdown, noting that God can turn even difficult circumstances into blessings. He then introduced the central doctrine of God’s sovereignty, referencing Psalm 121, Psalm 46, Psalm 91, and Psalm 68:32‑35 to illustrate how Scripture consistently calls believers to trust God as their refuge and source of strength. Sutton explained the difference between God’s sovereign will—His eternal, unchangeable plan for the world—and His permissive will, which allows human choices to influence outcomes. He highlighted Isaiah 55:8‑9 to show that God’s thoughts and ways are far beyond human understanding, and used a Chinese parable to demonstrate how apparent misfortunes can later reveal hidden benefits. The class concluded by urging participants to rest in the confidence that God’s omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent nature guarantees peace and purpose, even when current events seem confusing or painful.
Key Scriptures
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.
Sing to God, you kingdoms of the earth, sing praises to the Lord, sing to the one who rides across the ancient heavens, his mighty voice thundering from the sky. Tell everyone about God's power. His majesty shines down on Israel. His strength is mighty in the heavens. God is awesome in his sanctuary. The God of Israel gives power and strength to his people. Praise be to God.