Church Set up, overview of the Bible and First Sermon
PLAN FOR HEAVEN:
ROMANS 3:23-27, since all have sinned and continually fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are being justified [declared free of the guilt of sin, made acceptable to God, and granted eternal life] as a gift by His [precious, undeserved] grace, through the redemption [the payment for our sin] which is [provided] in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God displayed publicly [before the eyes of the world] as a [life-giving] sacrifice of atonement and reconciliation (propitiation) by His blood [to be received] through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness [which demands punishment for sin], because in His forbearance [His deliberate restraint] He passed over the sins previously committed [before Jesus’ crucifixion]. 26 It was to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be just and the One who justifies those who have faith in Jesus [and rely confidently on Him as Savior]. 27 Then what becomes of [our] boasting? It is excluded [entirely ruled out, banished]. On what principle? On [the principle of good] works? No, but on the principle of faith.
ROMANS 6:23, For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God [that is, His remarkable, overwhelming gift of grace to believers] is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
ROMANS 1:16-19, I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation [from His wrath and punishment] to everyone who believes [in Christ as Savior], to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed, both springing from faith and leading to faith [disclosed in a way that awakens more faith]. As it is written and forever remains written, “The just and upright shall live by faith.” 18 For [God does not overlook sin and] the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who in their wickedness suppress and stifle the truth, 19 because that which is known about God is evident within them [in their inner consciousness], for God made it evident to them.
I CORINTHIANS 15:1-6, Now brothers and sisters, let me remind you [once again] of the good news [of salvation] which I preached to you, which you welcomed and accepted and on which you stand [by faith]. 2 By this faith you are saved [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, and set apart for His purpose], if you hold firmly to the word which I preached to you, unless you believed in vain [just superficially and without complete commitment]. 3 For I passed on to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to [that which] the Scriptures [foretold], 4 and that He was buried, and that He was [bodily] raised on the third day according to [that which] the Scriptures [foretold], 5 and that He appeared to Cephas (Peter), then to the Twelve. 6 After that He appeared to more than five hundred brothers and sisters at one time, the majority of whom are still alive, but some have fallen asleep [in death].
ROMANS 5:8-11, But God clearly shows and proves His own love for us, by the fact that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Therefore, since we have now been justified [declared free of the guilt of sin] by His blood, [how much more certain is it that] we will be saved from the wrath of God through Him. 10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, it is much more certain, having been reconciled, that we will be saved [from the consequences of sin] by His life [that is, we will be saved because Christ lives today]. 11 Not only that, but we also rejoice in God [rejoicing in His love and perfection] through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received and enjoy our reconciliation [with God].
ROMANS 4:5, But to the one who does not work [that is, the one who does not try to earn his salvation by doing good], but believes and completely trusts in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited to him as righteousness (right standing with God).
EPHESIANS 1:13-14, In Him, you also, when you heard the word of truth, the good news of your salvation, and [as a result] believed in Him, were stamped with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit [the One promised by Christ] as owned and protected [by God]. 14 The Spirit is the guarantee [the first installment, the pledge, a foretaste] of our inheritance until the redemption of God’s own [purchased] possession [His believers], to the praise of His glory.
I THESSALONIANS 4:13-18, Now we do not want you to be uninformed, believers, about those who are asleep [in death], so that you will not grieve [for them] as the others do who have no hope [beyond this present life]. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again [as in fact He did], even so God [in this same way—by raising them from the dead] will bring with Him those [believers] who have fallen asleep in Jesus. 15 For we say this to you by the Lord’s [own] word, that we who are still alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will in no way precede [into His presence] those [believers] who have fallen asleep [in death]. 16 For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven with a shout of command, with the voice of the archangel and with the [blast of the] trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain [on the earth] will simultaneously be caught up (raptured) together with them [the resurrected ones] in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord! 18 Therefore comfort and encourage one another with these words [concerning our reunion with believers who have died].
ROMANS 10:8-13, But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart”—that is, the word [the message, the basis] of faith which we preach— 9 because if you acknowledge and confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord [recognizing His power, authority, and majesty as God], and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart a person believes [in Christ as Savior] resulting in his justification [that is, being made righteous—being freed of the guilt of sin and made acceptable to God]; and with the mouth he acknowledges and confesses [his faith openly], resulting in and confirming [his] salvation. 11 For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes in Him [whoever adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Him] will not be disappointed [in his expectations].” 12 For there is no distinction between Jew and Gentile; for the same Lord is Lord over all [of us], and [He is] abounding in riches (blessings) for all who call on Him [in faith and prayer]. 13 For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord [in prayer] will be saved.”
REVELATION 22:21, The grace of the Lord Jesus (the Christ, the Messiah) be with all [the saints—all believers, those set apart for God]. Amen.
ROMANS 3:23-27, since all have sinned and continually fall short of the glory of God, 24 and are being justified [declared free of the guilt of sin, made acceptable to God, and granted eternal life] as a gift by His [precious, undeserved] grace, through the redemption [the payment for our sin] which is [provided] in Christ Jesus, 25 whom God displayed publicly [before the eyes of the world] as a [life-giving] sacrifice of atonement and reconciliation (propitiation) by His blood [to be received] through faith. This was to demonstrate His righteousness [which demands punishment for sin], because in His forbearance [His deliberate restraint] He passed over the sins previously committed [before Jesus’ crucifixion]. 26 It was to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time, so that He would be just and the One who justifies those who have faith in Jesus [and rely confidently on Him as Savior]. 27 Then what becomes of [our] boasting? It is excluded [entirely ruled out, banished]. On what principle? On [the principle of good] works? No, but on the principle of faith.
ROMANS 6:23, For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God [that is, His remarkable, overwhelming gift of grace to believers] is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
ROMANS 1:16-19, I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation [from His wrath and punishment] to everyone who believes [in Christ as Savior], to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed, both springing from faith and leading to faith [disclosed in a way that awakens more faith]. As it is written and forever remains written, “The just and upright shall live by faith.” 18 For [God does not overlook sin and] the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who in their wickedness suppress and stifle the truth, 19 because that which is known about God is evident within them [in their inner consciousness], for God made it evident to them.
I CORINTHIANS 15:1-6, Now brothers and sisters, let me remind you [once again] of the good news [of salvation] which I preached to you, which you welcomed and accepted and on which you stand [by faith]. 2 By this faith you are saved [reborn from above—spiritually transformed, renewed, and set apart for His purpose], if you hold firmly to the word which I preached to you, unless you believed in vain [just superficially and without complete commitment]. 3 For I passed on to you as of first importance what I also received, that Christ died for our sins according to [that which] the Scriptures [foretold], 4 and that He was buried, and that He was [bodily] raised on the third day according to [that which] the Scriptures [foretold], 5 and that He appeared to Cephas (Peter), then to the Twelve. 6 After that He appeared to more than five hundred brothers and sisters at one time, the majority of whom are still alive, but some have fallen asleep [in death].
ROMANS 5:8-11, But God clearly shows and proves His own love for us, by the fact that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Therefore, since we have now been justified [declared free of the guilt of sin] by His blood, [how much more certain is it that] we will be saved from the wrath of God through Him. 10 For if while we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, it is much more certain, having been reconciled, that we will be saved [from the consequences of sin] by His life [that is, we will be saved because Christ lives today]. 11 Not only that, but we also rejoice in God [rejoicing in His love and perfection] through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received and enjoy our reconciliation [with God].
ROMANS 4:5, But to the one who does not work [that is, the one who does not try to earn his salvation by doing good], but believes and completely trusts in Him who justifies the ungodly, his faith is credited to him as righteousness (right standing with God).
EPHESIANS 1:13-14, In Him, you also, when you heard the word of truth, the good news of your salvation, and [as a result] believed in Him, were stamped with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit [the One promised by Christ] as owned and protected [by God]. 14 The Spirit is the guarantee [the first installment, the pledge, a foretaste] of our inheritance until the redemption of God’s own [purchased] possession [His believers], to the praise of His glory.
I THESSALONIANS 4:13-18, Now we do not want you to be uninformed, believers, about those who are asleep [in death], so that you will not grieve [for them] as the others do who have no hope [beyond this present life]. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again [as in fact He did], even so God [in this same way—by raising them from the dead] will bring with Him those [believers] who have fallen asleep in Jesus. 15 For we say this to you by the Lord’s [own] word, that we who are still alive and remain until the coming of the Lord, will in no way precede [into His presence] those [believers] who have fallen asleep [in death]. 16 For the Lord Himself will come down from heaven with a shout of command, with the voice of the archangel and with the [blast of the] trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain [on the earth] will simultaneously be caught up (raptured) together with them [the resurrected ones] in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord! 18 Therefore comfort and encourage one another with these words [concerning our reunion with believers who have died].
ROMANS 10:8-13, But what does it say? “The word is near you, in your mouth and in your heart”—that is, the word [the message, the basis] of faith which we preach— 9 because if you acknowledge and confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord [recognizing His power, authority, and majesty as God], and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. 10 For with the heart a person believes [in Christ as Savior] resulting in his justification [that is, being made righteous—being freed of the guilt of sin and made acceptable to God]; and with the mouth he acknowledges and confesses [his faith openly], resulting in and confirming [his] salvation. 11 For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes in Him [whoever adheres to, trusts in, and relies on Him] will not be disappointed [in his expectations].” 12 For there is no distinction between Jew and Gentile; for the same Lord is Lord over all [of us], and [He is] abounding in riches (blessings) for all who call on Him [in faith and prayer]. 13 For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord [in prayer] will be saved.”
REVELATION 22:21, The grace of the Lord Jesus (the Christ, the Messiah) be with all [the saints—all believers, those set apart for God]. Amen.
I need a church name that focuses on Introverts who are believers of the gospel (1 Corinthians 15:1-4; Romans 10:9-10,13)
Some ideas for church names:
Reflective Grace Chapel
Quiet Faith Fellowship
Reflective Grace Chapel
Introvert Grace Gathering
If I started a physical church location... My church structure would provide quiet areas where introverts can pray, reflect, or simply take a break from social interactions. Small group meetings would be encouraged, allowing for deeper, more meaningful interactions and the building of genuine relationships rather than just socializing.
Quiet Faith Fellowship
Reflective Grace Chapel
Introvert Grace Gathering
If I started a physical church location... My church structure would provide quiet areas where introverts can pray, reflect, or simply take a break from social interactions. Small group meetings would be encouraged, allowing for deeper, more meaningful interactions and the building of genuine relationships rather than just socializing.
There would be no greeters, passing the bucket, or turning to your neighbor. Instead, attendees can come in, sit down, and listen to the message. Donations on-line.
My pastors would focus on teaching and equipping the congregation, providing sound biblical teaching and practical guidance on how to live out and share their faith.
The idea is that the people in the pews are not just passive listeners but active participants in the mission of the church. The goal is to create committed followers of Jesus who live out their faith and share it with others.
Ephesians 4:11-12 (AMP), And [His gifts to the church were varied and] He Himself appointed some as apostles [special messengers, representatives], some as prophets [who speak a new message from God to the people], some as evangelists [who spread the good news of salvation], and some as pastors and teachers [to shepherd and guide and instruct], 12 [and He did this] to fully equip and perfect the saints (God’s people) for works of service, to build up the body of Christ [the church];
2 Timothy 4:2 (AMP), preach the word [as an official messenger]; be ready when the time is right and even when it is not [keep your sense of urgency, whether the opportunity seems favorable or unfavorable, whether convenient or inconvenient, whether welcome or unwelcome]; correct [those who err in doctrine or behavior], warn [those who sin], exhort and encourage [those who are growing toward spiritual maturity], with inexhaustible patience and [faithful] teaching.
Hebrews 10:24-25 (AMP), And let us consider [thoughtfully] how we may encourage one another to love and to do good deeds, 25 not forsaking our meeting together [as believers for worship and instruction], as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more [faithfully] as you see the day [of Christ’s return] approaching.
Acts 2:42, They were continually and faithfully devoting themselves to the instruction of the apostles, and to fellowship, to eating meals together and to prayers.
Matthew 18:20, For where two or three are gathered in My name [meeting together as My followers], I am there among them.”
We’ve got churches who want to make themselves into a country club. All to attract the unbelieving masses and entertain the saints.
Discipleship Evangelism: start around the 10:30 to the 16:00 mark of the video
In this video Justin Knoop is only one of two people I’ve ever heard talk about this.
In this video Justin Knoop is only one of two people I’ve ever heard talk about this.
My teaching style is Expository preaching viewed through a dispensational lens, involves interpreting and explaining Scripture with an emphasis on the distinct periods or “dispensations” in God’s plan for humanity.
Text-Centered by focusing on a specific passage of Scripture, explaining its meaning in detail.
Contextual Understanding by considering the historical, cultural, and literary context of the passage.
"It shall greatly help you to understand Scripture if you mark not only what is spoken or written, but ask of whom and to whom, with what words, at what time, where, to what intent, with what circumstances, considering what goes before and what comes after." ~ Miles Coverdale, 'The Golden Rule'
It highlights the differences between how God interacted with people in different dispensations. For instance, the promises made to Israel under the Law are distinct from the promises to the Church under Grace. Compilation of Kingdom / Grace verses
My Resources from Pastors, Students and Teachers:
Les Feldick
Matthew McGee
Chuck Missler (Koinonia House)
Andrew Wommack
Duane Sheriff
Bronson Ellis
Micah Beckwith
Nathan Peternel
Robert Morris
Andy Stanley
Joseph Prince
Ray Comfort (Living Waters)
Dr. Gene Kim (Real Bible Believers)
Kent Hovind (Dr. Dino)
Irvin Baxter Jr.
Nicky Gumbel
Chad Bird
Matt Chandler
Got Questions
Answers In Genesis
Louis Scott
Gary Hamrick
Voddie Baucham
Chris Blackeby
Jack Hibbs
Francis Chan
John MacArthur
"It shall greatly help you to understand Scripture if you mark not only what is spoken or written, but ask of whom and to whom, with what words, at what time, where, to what intent, with what circumstances, considering what goes before and what comes after." ~ Miles Coverdale, 'The Golden Rule'
It highlights the differences between how God interacted with people in different dispensations. For instance, the promises made to Israel under the Law are distinct from the promises to the Church under Grace. Compilation of Kingdom / Grace verses
My Resources from Pastors, Students and Teachers:
Les Feldick
Matthew McGee
Chuck Missler (Koinonia House)
Andrew Wommack
Duane Sheriff
Bronson Ellis
Micah Beckwith
Nathan Peternel
Robert Morris
Andy Stanley
Joseph Prince
Ray Comfort (Living Waters)
Dr. Gene Kim (Real Bible Believers)
Kent Hovind (Dr. Dino)
Irvin Baxter Jr.
Nicky Gumbel
Chad Bird
Matt Chandler
Got Questions
Answers In Genesis
Louis Scott
Gary Hamrick
Voddie Baucham
Chris Blackeby
Jack Hibbs
Francis Chan
John MacArthur
Overview:
Questions and Answers from the Bible
The Basics of Understanding the Bible
Learn the Bible in 24 Hours
Hebrews 13:8 (ESV), Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 (AMP), All Scripture is God-breathed [given by divine inspiration] and is profitable for instruction, for conviction [of sin], for correction [of error and restoration to obedience], for training in righteousness [learning to live in conformity to God’s will, both publicly and privately—behaving honorably with personal integrity and moral courage]; 17 so that the man of God may be complete and proficient, outfitted and thoroughly equipped for every good work.
2 Peter 1:20-21 (TLB), For no prophecy recorded in Scripture was ever thought up by the prophet himself. It was the Holy Spirit within these godly men who gave them true messages from God.
Romans 15:4 (KJV), For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.
2 Timothy 2:15 (NKJV), Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
Ephesians 1:10 (KJV), That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him
Acts 17:11 (TLB), But the people of Berea were more open-minded than those in Thessalonica, and gladly listened to the message. They searched the Scriptures day by day to check up on Paul and Silas’ statements to see if they were really so.
James 3:1 (AMP), Not many [of you] should become teachers [serving in an official teaching capacity], my brothers and sisters, for you know that we [who are teachers] will be judged by a higher standard [because we have assumed greater accountability and more condemnation if we teach incorrectly].
Proverbs 30:5 (AMP) - Every word of God is tested and refined [like silver]; He is a shield to those who trust and take refuge in Him.
John 17:17 (AMP) - Sanctify them in the truth [set them apart for Your purposes, make them holy]; Your word is truth.
Psalm 119:160 (ESV) - The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever.
Many people, whether they are church members or not, often think that Christianity begins with Matthew Chapter 1. However, this is not accurate. The events in the four gospels are still part of God's dealings with Israel, rooted in the Old Testament covenants and promises. When Christ appears, as announced by the angel in Luke 1, He does not come with the primary message of going to the Cross to die for the sins of the world, although that is in God's plan. Instead, He comes first to fulfill the promises made to the Nation of Israel. The narrative remains predominantly Jewish, with few exceptions, as I will point out and you will see throughout the Four Gospels.
Many people, whether they are church members or not, often think that Christianity begins with Matthew Chapter 1. However, this is not accurate. The events in the four gospels are still part of God's dealings with Israel, rooted in the Old Testament covenants and promises. When Christ appears, as announced by the angel in Luke 1, He does not come with the primary message of going to the Cross to die for the sins of the world, although that is in God's plan. Instead, He comes first to fulfill the promises made to the Nation of Israel. The narrative remains predominantly Jewish, with few exceptions, as I will point out and you will see throughout the Four Gospels.
Additionally, it's important to remember that during this time, everything is still under the Law. The Temple is operational, and sacrifices are being offered. Even those who become believers and followers of Christ continue to observe their Jewish customs and laws. Christ does not rebuke them for this, and neither should we. It is not until much later, through the teachings of Paul, the Apostle to the Gentiles, that it is revealed they are no longer under the Law. Keep in mind the Bible is a progressive revelation. God did not reveal everything to the New Testament people all at once. While there is much prophecy, God chose to hide certain things until the appropriate time.
Deuteronomy 29:29 (AMP), “The secret things belong to the Lord our God, but the things which are revealed and disclosed belong to us and to our children forever, so that we may do all of the words of this law.
Ephesians 3:9 (NKJV), and to make all see what is the fellowship [stewardship (dispensation)] of the mystery, which from the beginning of the ages has been hidden in God who created all things through Jesus Christ.
We will begin in Genesis and progress through the Bible, using the necessary verses from the whole Bible to highlight its meaning. By matching scripture with scripture, I aim to minimize my own personal thoughts and opinions.
We will begin in Genesis and progress through the Bible, using the necessary verses from the whole Bible to highlight its meaning. By matching scripture with scripture, I aim to minimize my own personal thoughts and opinions.
First Sermon
Revelation 1:8 (AMP), “I am the Alpha and the Omega [the Beginning and the End],” says the Lord God, “Who is [existing forever] and Who was [continually existing in the past] and Who is to come, the Almighty [the Omnipotent, the Ruler of all].”
Bible Hub
Blue Letter Bible
God
Who created God?
Where did God come from? - Kent Hovind
The Atheist Delusion
Study Genesis - Chuck Missler
Learn the Bible in 24 Hours - Hour 1
Sermon Notes: The Triune God and Eternity Past
Introduction
Opening Prayer: Invite the Holy Spirit to guide the discussion. Heavenly Father,
We come before You with grateful hearts, seeking Your presence and guidance. As we gather here today, we invite the Holy Spirit to be with us, to lead and inspire our conversation.
“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (Matthew 18:20)
Lord, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to Your wisdom. Help us to speak with love, understanding, and clarity. May Your Spirit fill us with peace and unity.
“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you.” (John 14:26)
Guide our thoughts and words, so that everything we discuss brings glory to Your name. Let Your truth be our foundation and Your love our guide.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
We thank You, Lord, for Your presence among us. May Your Holy Spirit lead us now and always.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
Scripture Reading: Genesis 1:1, John 1:1-2, and Ephesians 1:3-4.
Genesis 1:1a (AMP), In the beginning God (Elohim).
Learning some Hebrew will be helpful for you to help to bring out the meaning. For example: "Elohim" is a plural word used in Hebrew to refer to the one true God, emphasizing His majesty and power. It can also refer to other gods in different contexts. The concept of the Trinity fits into this by showing that the one God is made up of three co-equal persons.
The authorship of Genesis is attributed to Moses. Moses is also the author of the first five books of the Bible, known as the Pentateuch, which includes Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
John 1:1-2 (AMP), In the beginning [before all time] was the Word (Christ), and the Word was with God, and the Word was God Himself. 2 He was [continually existing] in the beginning [co-eternally] with God.
The Book of John and the Book of Revelation were both written by the same person, the Apostle John. He is also known as John the Beloved or John the disciple whom Jesus loved. John was part of Jesus’ inner circle, along with Peter and James. John authored five books in the New Testament: the Gospel of John, 1 John, 2 John, 3 John, and Revelation (He was exiled to the island of Patmos, where he received the visions recorded in the Book of Revelation).
In John the Apostle’s vision (Rev 19), he sees Christ returning as Warrior-Messiah-King, and “...His name is called The Word of God...and LORD OF LORDS.” (Rev 19:13, 16). In this phrase, “God” appears first in the Greek word order, emphasizing the fact that “the Word” (Christ) was God—so “God Himself.”
Ephesians 1:3-4 (AMP), Blessed and worthy of praise be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms in Christ, 4 just as [in His love] He chose us in Christ [actually selected us for Himself as His own] before the foundation of the world, so that we would be holy [that is, consecrated, set apart for Him, purpose-driven] and blameless in His sight. In love
I. Understanding the Triune God
Definition of the Trinity:
- One God in Three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. See the picture above. Again... all three persons are equal in power, glory, and eternity. None of them is greater or lesser than the others. They are perfectly united in their essence and purpose. They work together in harmony.
- Biblical Basis: Matthew 28:19, 2 Corinthians 13:14.
- One God in Three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. See the picture above. Again... all three persons are equal in power, glory, and eternity. None of them is greater or lesser than the others. They are perfectly united in their essence and purpose. They work together in harmony.
Roles within the Trinity:
- Father: Creator and Sustainer (Genesis 1:1, Ephesians 4:6).
- Son (Jesus Christ): Creator, Redeemer and Savior (John 1:14, Colossians 1:15-20).
- Holy Spirit: Creator, Comforter and Guide (John 14:26, Romans 8:26-27).
Unity and Diversity:
- Unity in Essence: One divine nature.
- Diversity in Persons: Distinct roles and relationships.
II. Eternity Past
Einstein believed that time isn’t as straightforward as it seems. In our everyday experience, we think of time as a sequence of events: past, present, and future. However, in the realm of physics, especially in Einstein’s theory of relativity, time is more complex.
According to relativity, time is intertwined with space, forming a four-dimensional fabric called spacetime. In this framework, all moments—past, present, and future—exist simultaneously. This means that the distinction we make between past, present, and future is not a fundamental aspect of reality but rather a way our minds perceive time.
So, when Einstein says that the distinction between past, present, and future is a “persistent illusion,” he means that our perception of time flowing from one moment to the next is not how time actually works at a fundamental level. Instead, all points in time exist together in the spacetime continuum. This idea can be quite mind-bending, but it’s a cornerstone of modern physics.
“The New Testament is in the Old Testament concealed; the Old Testament is in the New Testament revealed.” - St. Augustine
Think of it like a movie with a plot twist. In the first half (Old Testament), you get hints and clues about what’s going to happen. You might not understand them fully at the time. In the second half (New Testament), the twist is revealed, and you suddenly see how all those earlier clues fit together.
The Old Testament has many prophecies about a coming Messiah. The New Testament reveals that Jesus is the Messiah those prophecies were talking about. Example: The story of the Passover lamb in the Old Testament is a symbol. In the New Testament, Jesus is called the “Lamb of God,” showing that the Passover lamb was a symbol of Jesus’ sacrifice.
Despite God’s absolute sovereignty, He has allowed men and nations to exercise their free will. Remarkably, nearly 6,000 years since the creation of humanity, everything has unfolded precisely according to His divine timetable. How God accomplishes this without turning humans into mere robots is beyond our comprehension, yet the evidence is undeniable. Every prophecy about His first coming was fulfilled to the smallest detail. Now, as we observe the world, we see end-time prophecies falling into place, all according to His perfect plan. And through it all, He has never stripped away our freedom.
Concept of Eternity Past:
- God’s Eternal Nature: Psalm 90:2, Revelation 1:8.
- Existence Before Creation: John 17:5, Ephesians 1:4.
God’s Eternal Plan:
- Foreknowledge and Predestination: Romans 8:29-30, Ephesians 1:4-5.
- Purpose and Will: Isaiah 46:9-10, 2 Timothy 1:9.
The Relationship within the Trinity in Eternity Past:
- Love and Fellowship: John 17:24.
- Divine Counsel and Agreement: Ephesians 1:9-10.
III. Implications for Believers
Assurance of Salvation:
- God’s Eternal Plan for Redemption: Ephesians 1:7-8.
- Security in God’s Sovereignty: Romans 8:38-39.
Living in Light of Eternity:
- Eternal Perspective: Colossians 3:1-2.
- Purposeful Living: Ephesians 2:10.
Communion with the Triune God:
- Prayer and Worship: John 4:23-24.
- Fellowship with the Holy Spirit: 2 Corinthians 13:14.
Conclusion
- Summary: Recap the key points about the Triune God and Eternity Past.
- Call to Action: Encourage the congregation to deepen their relationship with God and live with an eternal perspective.
- Closing Prayer: Thank God for His eternal plan and the gift of the Trinity.
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