THE GOD WHO ACTS TO SAVE

If the Bible is to be properly understood, it must be approached on its own terms. It is not simply a book of rules; it does not propose to be. What it does set itself forward as is the story of God and His dealings with man on planet Earth. From the opening verse, the Bible presents a religion different from all other world religions. This lesson is concerned with the Bible's central theme: The God who acts to save.

Body

I. BIBLE RELIGION IS UNIQUE BECAUSE GOD IS REVEALED AS OVER AND APART FROM CREATION AND MAN, AND HE ACTS WITHIN HISTORY TO SAVE MAN FROM HIS ENEMIES AND FROM EVIL.

   A. This is not basically a moralistic religion, such as Judaism. That philosophy sees God as pleased by man.

   B. This is not a pietistic or contemplative religion, as the Eastern religions. That philosophy sees God (god) as in man.

   C. This is not a ceremonial or ritualistic religion, as paganism. That philosophy sees God as appeased by man.

   D. The Bible opens rather with God as separate from man, above man, but concerned about man as His creature.

II. BOTH OLD AND NEW TESTAMENTS TELL THE STORY OF GOD'S WORK WITHIN HISTORY FOR FALLEN MAN.

   A. The Old Testament begins with creation, and God active.

   B. The covenant at Sinai is one based on the work of God for Israel (Exodus 20:2).

   C. The Old Testament, especially the Psalms (the inspired book for worship), celebrates the work of God on behalf of His covenant people (Psalm 105; 135; 136; Exodus 15).

   D. The New Testament continues the story of God acting to save His people (Luke 1:46-55; 1:67-79). This is the means by which Jesus is linked to the Old Testament story and the God of the Old Testament who is Jesus' Father.

   E. The apostolic preaching followed this same theme of God who acts to save (Acts 2:11, 22-36; 3:12-26; 7:2-8, 17, 30-34, 37, 42, 45, 52; 10:34-43; 13:16-41).

   F. The Book of Revelation shows a scene from the bliss of the saved, emphasizing the same theme and bringing to full circle the story begun in Genesis 1:1 (15:1-4).

Conclusion

The God who has done so much to save man now calls on man to respond to His mercies. Do not hear in vain, but obey in true faith and love.

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