Where was God?

During the 8am worship service yesterday at FBC Maryville, a gunman walked into the sanctuary and shot and killed the Senior Pastor, Dr. Fred Winters. Our thoughts and prayers are with Cindy, their two daughters, all of their family and friends, and the members of this great Church.

In light of these horrific events, I want to provide biblical answers to two of the theological questions that are on the hearts and minds of many. I hope you will take the time to look up and read these verses carefully and allow the Holy Spirit to speak to you through them.

First, “Where was God?”
1) God is, of course, everywhere present! Psalm 139:7-12
2) God is always present in the midst of His people! Matthew 18:20
3) God was both in and with Fred Winters! John 14:16-17
4) Because God was with Fred Winters yesterday, we also know that Fred Winters is with God today! 2 Corinthians 5:1-10

Second, “If God is both all-powerful and completely good, why does He allow things like this to happen?”
1) God is all-powerful! Jeremiah 32:27; Mark 10:27; 14:36
2) God is completely good! Psalm 119:68; James 1:17
3) God is completely sovereign! Psalm 115:3; 133:5-6; 139:16.
4) God is not the author of evil, but He allows the existence of evil in the world to accomplish His greater purposes! Genesis 50:19-20
5) God tells us in His word that these kinds of things are going to happen to His people! John 15:18; 2 Timothy 3:12
6) Fred Winters was a Christian man. He was among those who are described as, “those who love God and are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28) God does not say that all things are good for those who love Him; but, that He is working “all things together for good.”

Please continue in prayer for these beloved ones who are hurting in ways that most of us cannot imagine. Pray that God will be glorified; His people will be edified; and that lost people will be saved as a result of this heart-breaking tragedy.