InstaStudy

God Draws Us Closer to Himself

This Bible study explores the profound truth that God actively seeks to draw humanity into a deeper, more intimate relationship with Himself. We will examine His nature, His initiative, our response, and the ongoing journey of walking closely with the One True God.

1. The One True God Who Seeks Relationship

1.1 God is One

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 43:10-11; Isaiah 44:6
  • There is only one God, not multiple persons in the Godhead.
  • He is the sole Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer of all things.
  • This singular God desires a personal and exclusive relationship with His creation.

1.2 God Manifested in Christ

Verses: John 1:1, 1:14; 1 Timothy 3:16; Colossians 2:9; Isaiah 9:6
  • The one God revealed Himself in human flesh as Jesus Christ.
  • Jesus is the visible manifestation of the invisible God, making Him approachable.
  • Through Christ, God made Himself relatable and provided the way for reconciliation.

1.3 God's Love and Desire for Us

Verses: John 3:16; Romans 5:8; 1 John 4:8; Jeremiah 31:3
  • God's drawing is rooted in His unconditional and everlasting love for humanity.
  • He initiated the plan of salvation because of His great love for us.
  • His desire is for us to know Him intimately and be reconciled to Him.

2. God's Invitation and Our Need

2.1 Humanity's Separation from God

Verses: Romans 3:23; Isaiah 59:2; Genesis 3:8-10
  • Sin created a chasm between God and humanity, breaking our fellowship.
  • We are inherently unable to bridge this gap or earn our way back to God.
  • God, in His mercy, provides the only way back to Him.

2.2 The Call to Repentance

Verses: Acts 2:38; Luke 13:3; Mark 1:15
  • God's drawing begins with a call to turn from sin and self-will.
  • Repentance is a genuine change of mind and heart, leading to a change of direction.
  • It is the necessary first step in responding to God's loving invitation.

2.3 The Conviction of the Spirit

Verses: John 16:8; Acts 2:37; Romans 2:4
  • The Holy Spirit works to reveal our need for God and His salvation.
  • He convicts us of sin, righteousness, and judgment, stirring our hearts.
  • This conviction is God's gentle drawing, leading us to seek Him for forgiveness and new life.

3. The Path to Reconciliation and New Life

3.1 Water Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 10:48; Colossians 2:12
  • Baptism is an essential act of obedience, identifying with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection.
  • It is administered in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.
  • This act signifies our commitment to God and our entrance into His covenant.

3.2 Receiving the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 2:38-39; Acts 10:44-46; Acts 19:6
  • God draws us closer by filling us with His Spirit, empowering us for new life.
  • The initial evidence of receiving the Holy Spirit is speaking in other tongues.
  • The Spirit empowers us to live a holy life and deepens our relationship with God.

3.3 Being Born Again

Verses: John 3:3-7; Titus 3:5; 2 Corinthians 5:17
  • Repentance, water baptism, and receiving the Spirit constitute the new birth experience.
  • This spiritual transformation makes us new creations in Christ, cleansed and renewed.
  • It is God's way of bringing us into His family and closer to His heart, giving us a fresh start.

4. Walking in Continual Closeness with God

4.1 Daily Prayer and Communication

Verses: 1 Thessalonians 5:17; Philippians 4:6-7; James 5:16
  • Consistent prayer is vital for maintaining an intimate and ongoing relationship with God.
  • It is our direct line of communication, expressing our worship, needs, and gratitude.
  • Through prayer, we experience God's presence, guidance, and peace.

4.2 Studying God's Word

Verses: 2 Timothy 3:16-17; Psalm 119:105; Joshua 1:8
  • The Bible is God's revealed will and a lamp unto our feet, guiding our path.
  • Regular study helps us understand His character, His desires, and His truth.
  • It nourishes our spirit, strengthens our faith, and draws us closer to His mind and heart.

4.3 Obedience and Consecration

Verses: John 14:15; Romans 12:1-2; 1 Samuel 15:22
  • Obedience to God's commands demonstrates our love and commitment to Him.
  • Consecrating our lives to Him means setting ourselves apart for His purpose and will.
  • This walk of obedience deepens our trust, intimacy, and fellowship with God.

4.4 Fellowship with Believers

Verses: Hebrews 10:25; Acts 2:42; 1 John 1:7
  • God draws us into a community of faith for mutual encouragement, support, and growth.
  • Fellowship provides accountability, shared worship, and strengthens our spiritual journey.
  • Being connected to other believers helps us stay focused and strengthens our walk with God.