Michael Seewald's sermon explores the attribute of God's immutability, meaning God's unchangeable nature. Seewald explains that the term "immutable" originates from Latin and Old French, signifying "not changeable." He highlights that while the word's meaning has remained consistent, it is not inherently unchangeable itself, unlike God's nature.
Seewald references Hebrews 6:17-18 to show that God's counsel is immutable, confirmed by an oath. He emphasizes that God's immutability applies to His being, attributes, and divine nature. God's declaration to Moses, "I am that I am," underscores His unchanging essence. Seewald explains that God's perfection cannot increase or decrease, as any change would imply imperfection.
The sermon also addresses God's immutability in His personality, specifically the Holy Trinity. Seewald uses the "Glory Be" doxology to illustrate the eternal and unchanging nature of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He discusses the concept of the Trinity as presented in Scripture, showing its consistent presence from Genesis through the New Testament.
Seewald then discusses God's immutability in His eternal will or decree, highlighting that God's plans are unchangeable and comprehensive. He explains that, unlike humans whose plans can fail due to external factors, God's will encompasses all events, including the actions of men and secondary causes. Seewald uses examples from Scripture, such as Joseph's story and Christ's betrayal by Judas, to illustrate how God's immutable plan works through human actions.
Seewald concludes by addressing seven qualifications to God's immutability, as noted by Greg Nichols:
1. God is active and self-moving, not inactive.
2. God is personal and communicative, not antisocial.
3. God has divine affections, not apathetic.
4. God is not implacable or obdurate.
5. God is approachable and responsive to prayer.
6. God's covenantal relationship with His people shows progressive revelation and development.
7. Christ's divine nature is immutable, while His human nature experienced change.
The sermon ends with a reminder that God's immutability should comfort believers, assuring them of God's unchanging promises and eternal refuge. Seewald transitions to a time of prayer, encouraging the congregation to meditate on God's steadfast nature.