Understanding God's Purpose and Salvation

Aug 22, 2024

Lecture Notes: The Eighth Day and the World Goes on to Perfection

Introduction

  • Urgency of understanding fundamental questions of existence
    • Key Questions: Who is God? What is God? What is its purpose? Who is man? What is man's purpose?
  • Answering these questions represents the wisdom of the ages.

Understanding God

  • Existence of God: Hebrews 11:6 emphasizes belief in God as a prerequisite for seeking Him.
  • Nature of God:
    • God is our Father.
    • His purpose: To bring sons and daughters to glory.
  • Nature of Man:
    • Created in God’s image, has great potential.
    • Purpose: To be part of the family of God.

The Need for Family Structure

  • The world needs to restore the God-ordained family structure.
  • Understanding the true God and the path to His kingdom is essential for alleviating suffering.

Definition of the Kingdom of God

  • Romans 14:17: The kingdom of God consists of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.
  • 1 Corinthians 15:50: Flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God.
  • Current worldly conditions lack righteousness, peace, and joy.

Call for Godly Leadership

  • The need for godly leadership and family is emphasized.
  • Reference to Revelation 3:20: Jesus stands at the door, inviting us to open our hearts.

Vision of God's Throne

  • Revelation 4: Description of God's splendor.
  • Worship of God: 24 elders worship Him, acknowledging His glory and purpose for creation.

God's Will and Purpose

  • God’s will is foundational to His creation; it is the essence of His being.
  • Ephesians 1:9: God makes known the mystery of His will and purpose.
  • The plan of salvation was ordained before the world began (2 Timothy 1:9).

Messianic Prophecies and Salvation

  • Isaiah 9:6: Prophecy of Christ as the ruler, emphasizing peace and justice.
  • The plan of salvation culminates in the Second Resurrection.

The Opportunity for Salvation

  • Daniel 12: Prophecy of resurrection for both the righteous and the wicked.
  • John 5:28-29: All in graves will hear His voice and be resurrected for judgment.
  • Romans 2:11-16: God is fair in judgment; everyone will have an opportunity for salvation.

The Role of Faith and Justification

  • Romans 3:23: All have sinned; justification comes through faith in Christ.
  • Galatians 3:14: The promise of God is for all nations through Jesus Christ.
  • There is only one path to salvation: through repentance and faith in Christ.

Perfection in Christian Living

  • Matthew 5:48: Call to be perfect as God is perfect.
  • 1 Corinthians 13: Without love, actions are meaningless.
  • Importance of growing in spiritual maturity and understanding.

Our Spiritual Readiness

  • Each individual must reflect on their readiness to meet God.
  • Hebrews 5:11-12: Call not to become dull of hearing; we should seek to grow in understanding.
  • Matthew 24-25: The parable of the ten virgins emphasizes readiness and vigilance.

Conclusion

  • The importance of influencing others positively, setting spiritual goals, and focusing on the Kingdom of God.
  • The next year presents challenges; it’s crucial to prepare spiritually.
  • Encouragement to develop a closer relationship with God and to be ready for His return.