For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace.
A God, not of confusion, but of peace
True religion teaches us to refer all questions to the highest tribunal, and to ask, not merely, What is agreeable and expedient? but what is the will of God? At Corinth many disorders had arisen, and there were many reasons why they should not be. But here is the highest. Christians are the servants of God, who is not the author of confusion, etc. This is apparent from--
I. His work as Creator. The more nature is studied the more clearly order is seen to be heaven’s first law. Indeed scientists affirm the universal presence of law, and to those who believe in a Lawgiver the regularity with which the processes of nature are conducted is an evidence of the working of mind, and that in accordance with the highest reason.
II. His method in revelation. The Scriptures unfold a plan gradually and regularly, according to a scheme of which the profound wisdom is apparent, although not fully, to a created mind. The truth was revealed first to a family, then to a nation, then to a race. “The law was given by Moses,” etc. The Bible is a marvellously organic whole; in its diversity is discernible a unity which only a Divine mind could impart.
III. The work of redemption. The whole motive of the economy of grace was to reduce the confusion which had invaded sinful humanity to order. To hush the moral discord was the purpose contemplated by the Incarnation and the Cross.
IV. The institution of civil society. Social and political life are attributed in the New Testament to God the Giver of all good. Jesus bade His disciples render to Caesar, etc., and Paul enjoined the duty of loyalty inasmuch as “the powers that be are ordained of God.”
V. The constitution and government of Christian Churches. Is it credible that the God in all whose ways order is so apparent should reverse His procedure in that realm which is the highest of all? Christ appointed apostles; apostles constituted churches, ordained their officers, and gave instructions for worship, business, and charity. Confusion here, therefore, is to be traced to human folly. In proportion as the Spirit of Christ lives and works in any society will subordination, co-operation, and unity prevail. (Prof. J. R. Thomson.)
God the author, not of confusion, but of Peace
I. God is the author of peace. Witness His operations--
1. In nature.
2. The human heart.
3. Society.
II. Consequently confusion cannot be the work of His Spirit.
1. It may accidentally be associated with it.
2. But arises from human defect, the want of--
(1) Self-control (1Co_14:32).
(2) Intelligent piety (1Co_14:20).
(3) Profounder acquaintance with the God of peace.
III. It follows that confusion should have no place in the Church.
