God's Unchanging Nature in a Changing World
A Bible study exploring God's interaction with humanity throughout history.
1. God's Unchanging Character
1.1 The Immutable God
Verses: Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8
- God's nature is consistent throughout the Old and New Testaments.
- His attributes of love, justice, and mercy are always present.
1.2 Salvation Through Faith
Verses: Romans 4:3; Galatians 3:6
- God's plan of salvation has always been through faith.
- The method of expressing that faith has varied.
2. Cultural Expressions of Faith
2.1 Variations in Worship
Verses: John 4:24; 1 Samuel 16:7
- Different cultures have different ways of expressing worship.
- God looks at the heart, not just the outward expression.
2.2 Discerning Cultural Practices
Verses: 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22; Romans 12:2
- Cultural practices can sometimes conflict with biblical principles.
- We must discern what is acceptable to God.
2.3 Adapting the Message
Verses: 1 Corinthians 9:19-23; Acts 17:22-34
- The early church adapted its message to different cultures.
- Paul became all things to all men, that he might save some.
3. Reaching Across Cultures
3.1 Love for All People
Verses: Matthew 22:39; Galatians 3:28
- The Bible teaches us to love our neighbors as ourselves.
- This includes people from all cultures and backgrounds.
3.2 Sharing the Gospel
Verses: Matthew 5:14-16; Acts 1:8
- We are called to be a light to the world.
- This means sharing the gospel with people of all nations.
4. The Singular Godhead
4.1 One God, Different Manifestations
Verses: John 14:9; Colossians 2:9
- The God of the Old Testament is the same God as in the New Testament.
- He manifested Himself in different ways throughout history.
4.2 The Revelation of God
Verses: Isaiah 9:6; 2 Corinthians 5:19
- God revealed Himself as Father in creation, Son in redemption, and Holy Spirit in empowering.
- These are not three separate beings, but one God revealing Himself.