ABOUT THIS EPISODE
What if the problem was never God’s provision, but our response to it? In this thought-provoking message, Elder Steven Howard explores Isaiah 5 and reveals the powerful truth that God has already done everything necessary for mankind to know Him, walk with Him, and experience His grace.
Using the parable of the vineyard in Isaiah 5:1-4, this sermon examines how God carefully prepared His vineyard, expecting good fruit, only to find wild grapes instead. The question God asks is still relevant today: “What could have been done more to my vineyard, that I have not done in it?”
Throughout this message, Elder Howard reminds us that God’s ways are perfect, even when our limited perspective causes us to question His goodness. While we often focus on pain, suffering, disappointment, and unanswered questions, God sees the complete picture from beginning to end. Our struggles are not evidence that God has failed us, but opportunities to trust the One whose plans are always right.
This sermon also points to the finished work of Jesus Christ. At Calvary, God’s perfect plan of redemption was completed forever. When Jesus declared, “It is finished,” every provision for salvation, forgiveness, hope, and reconciliation was fully accomplished. Nothing needs to be added to Christ’s work because everything necessary has already been done.
Elder Howard contrasts humanity’s tendency to blame God with the truth that sin entered the world through man’s rebellion, not through any failure in God’s design. Even so, God’s grace continues to reach every sinner, offering forgiveness and calling all people to repentance through Jesus Christ.
If you’ve struggled to understand suffering, questioned God’s goodness, or needed reassurance that Christ’s sacrifice is sufficient, this message offers a biblical reminder that God has never failed His people. His vineyard was planted perfectly. His salvation is complete. The question that remains is how each of us will respond to His finished work.
Scripture References:
• Isaiah 5:1-4
• Genesis 1
• John 3
• Hebrews 12
• 2 Corinthians 5:21
• Leviticus
• John 19:30
