IN Mr. Seegobin’s letter published Tuesday 23rd, he cited Ezekiel 14:9 and 1 Kings 22:23 as examples of God being the author of deceit. Because I did not wish to overload my previous letter with a lot of information, I did not address this. However, further clarification is needed to establish what Ezekiel 14:9 and I Kings 22:23 were addressing.

Isaiah 28:10 tells us that Scripture has to be understood precept upon precept (commandment upon commandment) and line upon line (or that which connects). When one simply uses a text without the proper understanding of the context which requires reading the entire book at times or without a spiritual understanding of God’s nature and character, then you will have a disconnect or one’s personal interpretation.

James 1:13-14 tells us that God cannot be tempted by evil, neither does he tempt anyone with evil. But one is tempted and enticed by his own lust. God made man with a free will according to Genesis 2:16, giving man the power to choose. God in his omniscience (all-knowing) knows what man will choose. In Hebrews 4:12 God can discern the intent and thoughts of one’s heart. Therefore, God uses man’s choice, whether for good or for evil, to ultimately fulfill his purpose.

Therefore, within the context of Ezekiel 14:9 and I Kings 22:23, there were prophets who refused to speak what God had commanded them to say. Therefore, God in his sovereignty (supreme ruler) delivered them over to the power of a lie (their own lust and wickedness) to self-destruct, yet holding them responsible for their own actions. We also see the same in Romans 1:28.
PASTOR DANIEL SINGH