Memory Scripture
In Him also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestined according to the purpose of Him who works all things according to the counsel of His will.
(Ephesians 1:11)
The Bible reveals God’s eternal plan for humanity’s salvation and purpose.
DEVOTIONAL BIBLE READINGS
Mon. 9: Spiritual Life Made Possible Through The Bible (Rom. 8:5-81
Tue. 10: Sonship, Function Of The Word And Spirit (Rom 8:14-17)
Wed 11: Sons Of God And Divine Manifestation (Rom. 8:18-25)
Thu. 12: Sons Of God And God’s Good Purpose (Rom. 8:28-30)
Fri. 13: Sacrifice OfJesus, A Total Package (Rom. 8:31-32)
Sat. 14: Seriously, We Are Fortunate In God (Rom. 8:38,39)
DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT
God gave us the Bible to tell us His mind and will. In it, we can clearly see His good plan and purpose for all of humanity.
INTRODUCTION
TEXTUAL SOURCES: GENESIS 1:26-28; 3:15; JEREMIAH 29:11; JOHN 1:1-5; EPHESIANS 1:1FF
Glory be to God Who reveals Himself, His purpose and plan His Word. As discussed in our last lesson, God has revealed His mind to us, and by the help of the Holy Spirit, we were able to assimilate it. May we receive the grace to put it into action.
This week’s lesson is the fifth in Unit 1. We are going to look at God’s ultimate purpose and plan for humanity as revealed in the Bible. The Bible isn’t just a book; it is a record of God’s plan tor us, from creation to salvation, and all the way to the end of the world. The Creator always has a plan for His creation, and God has great promises and plans for us, all written in the Scripture for us to understand. As we study His Word,let us pray for the Holy Spirit to help us see more of His good plans for us in the Bible.
LESSON OUTLINE
- GOD’S PURPOSE FOR MAN IN THE BIBLE
- GOD’S PURPOSE FULFILLED IN THE BIBLE
LESSON EXPOSITION
GOD’S PURPOSE FOR MAN IN THE BIBLE (Gen.1:26-28; Jer.29:11)
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
(Jer. 29:11)
a) Gen. 1:26-28: God’s original purpose for humanity has many sides it began with the creation of the world and humans in His image, with the goal of having a loving and close relationship with us (Gen. 1-2; 3:8,9; Ps. 8:3,5).
b) Man was created to worship, honour and glorify God (Ps.19:1; Isa, 43:7). God is still` God, whether we live out this purpose or not, but in His kindness,He has chosen to include us in His plan. Let us not fail to live up to this calling!
c) God gave man dominion over the earth and its creatures, trusting him to care for His creation (Ps. 8:6-8). He desired man to represent His kingdom on earth (Matt. 6:10). What else could God have done for man?
d) Man was created in God’s image, meaning we were designed to reflect His character, attitude and nature, here on earth (Gen. 1:26-27; Col. 3:10). But is humanity still living in a way that exemplifies this?
e) God does everything to perfectly complete His purpose, whether for us individually, or for the bigger picture He is
vorking out for all of us.
f) Jer. 29:11: For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD.. Despite the damage that mankind allowed Satan to cause. God remains faithful to His promises. He still has a plan for a brighter future and offers us unshakable hope foreternity.
GOD’S PURPOSE FULFILLED IN THE BIBLE (Gen. 3:15; Jn. 1:1-5; Eph. 1:1ff)
And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your seed and her Seed; He shall bruise your head, and you shall bruise His heel
(Gen. 3:15)
a) It is completely wrong for anyone to turn to any other source/ manual to seek God’s purpose, or how His promises will be fulfilled. It is a serious offence to chase after other gods (1 Sam. 28:3-25).
b) Jn. 1:1-5: God’s purpose and promises began and are fulfilled in His Word. That is why the Word is the sure answer to every situation we face in life.
c) Gen. 3:15: And I will put enmity between…your seed and her Seed.This is the first promise of redemption, often called the “protoevangelium,” where God declares the beginning of His plan to save humanity.
d) The Seed of the woman, Jesus, came and triumphed over the enemy. This fulfils God’s redemptive plan, once and for all.
e) God is always faithful and His promises will never fail (Isa. 55:11). He controls everything to ensure His will is done
throuch His eternal Word. Don’t resist His plan!
f) Eph. 1: In Jesus, God has chosen to fill all things. Remember, He is the beginning and the end, and everything in heaven and earth is under His control. Don’t try to step outside God’s will because of your current struggles (Rom. 8:28).
LESSONS DERIVED
- Understanding God’s purpose for us through His Word helps us stay strong, trusting that His promises willbe fulfilled.
- Purpose comes first, and every plan has a purpose. God, Who always has a purpose, shows us His plans and promises
through His everlasting Word.
QUESTIONS
- What should be our attitudes as believers to God’s purpose?
- The Bible’s purpose is rooted in God’s plan to redeem and restore humanity to aright relationship with God. Explain.”
