Where in the Bible does it say God is not the author of confusion?

The Bible verse most frequently cited to assert that God is not the author of confusion is found in 1 Corinthians 14:33, which states, "For God is not a God of confusion but of peace. As in all the churches of the saints" (ESV). This passage is embedded within a broader context where the Apostle Paul is addressing issues related to orderly worship in the Corinthian church. To understand the full implications of this statement, it is essential to delve deeper into the context, the nature of God, and how this principle applies to our lives today.

In 1 Corinthians 14, Paul is providing instructions on how spiritual gifts, particularly prophecy and speaking in tongues, should be exercised within the church. The Corinthian church was experiencing a degree of disorder during their gatherings, with multiple people speaking in tongues simultaneously and others prophesying without any semblance of structure. This chaos was not edifying the church body, and Paul sought to correct this by emphasizing that worship services should be conducted in an orderly manner.

Paul's assertion that "God is not a God of confusion but of peace" serves as a theological foundation for his practical instructions. The Greek word translated as "confusion" is "akatastasia," which can also be rendered as disorder, tumult, or instability. This term contrasts sharply with "peace," which in the biblical sense often denotes wholeness, harmony, and order. By stating that God is a God of peace, Paul is affirming that God’s nature is one of order and clarity, not chaos and confusion.

This principle is consistent with the broader biblical narrative concerning the character of God. From the opening chapters of Genesis, where God brings order out of chaos in the creation account, to the detailed laws and rituals given to the Israelites to maintain order in their worship and community life, God’s desire for order is evident. In Genesis 1:2, the earth is described as "formless and void," but through God's creative word, order and structure are established. The Psalmist reflects this in Psalm 33:9, "For He spoke, and it came to be; He commanded, and it stood firm" (ESV).

Furthermore, the wisdom literature of the Old Testament, such as the Book of Proverbs, repeatedly emphasizes that wisdom and understanding, which are gifts from God, lead to a well-ordered life. Proverbs 3:19-20 states, "The LORD by wisdom founded the earth; by understanding He established the heavens; by His knowledge the deeps broke open, and the clouds drop down the dew" (ESV). This portrays God as the ultimate source of order and coherence in the universe.

In the New Testament, the theme of God’s orderliness continues. The Apostle James writes, "For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice. But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere" (James 3:16-17, ESV). Here, James contrasts earthly wisdom, which leads to disorder, with divine wisdom, which fosters peace and righteousness.

It is also important to consider the theological implications of God being a God of peace and not of confusion. This attribute of God reassures believers that God’s intentions and actions are inherently good and aimed at the well-being of His creation. In the midst of confusion and turmoil, the believer can trust that God’s nature is unchanging and that He is working towards bringing about peace and order.

This understanding has practical applications for the life of the church and individual believers. For the church, it means that worship services and communal activities should reflect the orderliness of God. This is not about rigid formalism but about creating an environment where the Holy Spirit can move freely without the hindrance of chaos. Paul’s instructions to the Corinthians were aimed at ensuring that every member of the congregation could be edified and that the gifts of the Spirit could be exercised in a manner that builds up the body of Christ.

For individual believers, recognizing that God is not the author of confusion can bring comfort and guidance. In times of personal turmoil or decision-making, believers can seek God’s peace and clarity through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and the counsel of mature Christians. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages believers, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (ESV). This peace is a manifestation of God’s orderly and benevolent nature.

Moreover, understanding God as a God of peace has implications for how believers interact with the world. Christians are called to be peacemakers, reflecting God’s character in their relationships and communities. Jesus said in Matthew 5:9, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God" (ESV). This calling involves actively working towards reconciliation, justice, and harmony, mirroring the peace that God embodies.

In conclusion, the statement that "God is not a God of confusion but of peace" found in 1 Corinthians 14:33 encapsulates a profound truth about the nature of God. It reassures believers of God’s orderly and peaceful character and provides a foundation for conducting worship and living out the Christian faith in a manner that reflects God’s nature. By embracing this truth, the church can foster an environment of edification and harmony, and individual believers can find solace and direction in the midst of life’s uncertainties, knowing that God’s peace is ever-present and accessible.