Does God Keep People From Sinning More Than They Already Do?

Understanding Divine Sovereignty and Human Sinfulness

The doctrine of divine sovereignty asserts that God has complete control over His creation, which extends to human actions, both good and evil. This concept is crucial in understanding the nature of sin and God's role in controlling it.

The Nature of Sin

According to Christian theology, humans are inherently sinful, not merely because they commit sins, but because they are born with a sinful nature. This doctrine is supported by various scriptures, including Psalms 51:5, which states, "Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me." This inherent sinfulness means that left to their own devices, humans are incapable of achieving righteousness on their own.

Divine Restraint of Sin

Scripture provides numerous instances where God intervenes to prevent individuals from committing sins. A notable example is found in Genesis 20:6, where God prevents Abimelech from sinning against Him by taking Sarah, Abraham's wife. This act of prevention is attributed to God's desire to maintain the integrity of His covenant and protect His chosen individuals.

The Protective Purpose of Divine Restraint

The primary purpose of God's intervention in human sinfulness is to protect and preserve His elect, as mentioned in Revelation 5:9, which speaks of a redeemed group from "every tribe, tongue, people, and nation." This protective measure is not just for the benefit of the individuals but serves the broader purpose of maintaining a moral order within the world.

Theoretical Implications

If God were to remove His restraining hand, the extent of evil in the world would be unimaginably greater. The concept that without divine restraint, the world would experience chaos and rampant evil, is a point of contemplation for many theologians and scholars. This idea is supported by the thought experiment of considering the consequences if every evil thought of humanity were acted upon.

Scriptural Evidence and Scholarly Interpretations

The Bible is replete with verses that support the idea of divine restraint. Scholars and theologians have long debated the extent and mechanisms of this restraint, often citing scriptural evidence to support their theories. For instance, 2 Thessalonians 2:7 discusses the concept of a restraining force that holds back lawlessness until the appointed time.

Statistical and Theological Considerations

While statistical data on divine intervention in sin is inherently unquantifiable, theological studies and surveys show that many believers feel a sense of divine protection and guidance in avoiding sinful actions. For example, a Pew Research Center study on religion and public life might provide insights into how widespread these beliefs are among different Christian denominations and cultures.

Conclusion

The belief that God restrains humans from committing more sins than they do is deeply embedded in Christian theology, supported by scriptural evidence and the doctrinal understanding of human nature and divine sovereignty. This divine intervention is seen as a crucial mechanism for maintaining moral order and protecting the elect, ensuring that the world remains a livable place despite the inherent sinfulness of humanity.

In exploring this topic, one must consider both the theological implications and the personal experiences of believers, recognizing the profound impact of divine sovereignty on the concept of sin and morality.