The Divine Path to Redemption
A comprehensive study exploring God's eternal plan to reconcile humanity to Himself, revealing the steps to new life and spiritual transformation.
1. The One True God
1.1 God's Singular Nature
Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 43:10-11; Mark 12:29
- There is only one God, the Creator of all things.
- This one God is indivisible and supreme.
- All other gods are false and powerless.
1.2 Jesus as the Manifestation of God
Verses: John 1:1; John 1:14; Colossians 2:9; 1 Timothy 3:16
- Jesus is the one God revealed in human flesh.
- The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are different manifestations, roles, or attributes of the one God, not separate persons.
- In Jesus dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily.
1.3 Understanding God's Titles
Verses: Isaiah 9:6; John 14:9; John 10:30
- "Father" refers to God's role as Creator and source of all life.
- "Son" refers to God's manifestation in humanity, born of a virgin.
- "Holy Spirit" refers to God's active presence and power working in the world and in believers.
2. Humanity's Need for Redemption
2.1 The Origin of Sin
Verses: Genesis 3:6; Romans 5:12; Isaiah 59:2
- Sin entered the world through the disobedience of the first humans.
- All humanity inherited a sinful nature and tendency to transgress God's law.
- Sin separates us from God and brings spiritual death.
2.2 The Consequences of Sin
Verses: Romans 3:23; Romans 6:23; Hebrews 9:27
- All have sinned and fallen short of God's glory.
- The wages of sin is death, both spiritual and eternal.
- Without intervention, sin leads to eternal separation from God.
3. God's Provision for Salvation
3.1 The Sacrifice of Jesus
Verses: John 3:16; Romans 5:8; 1 Peter 2:24
- God, in His love, provided a way for humanity to be reconciled.
- Jesus, the sinless Lamb of God, died on the cross as a perfect sacrifice for our sins.
- His death paid the penalty for our transgressions, offering forgiveness and cleansing.
3.2 The Power of His Resurrection
Verses: Romans 4:25; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; Ephesians 1:19-20
- Jesus' resurrection demonstrates His victory over sin and death.
- His resurrection is the guarantee of our own future resurrection and new life.
- Through His resurrection, we are justified and given hope for eternal life.
4. The Experience of Salvation
4.1 Repentance
Verses: Acts 2:38; Luke 13:3; Acts 3:19
- Repentance is a change of mind and heart, turning away from sin and towards God.
- It involves acknowledging one's sin and a sincere desire to live righteously.
- Repentance is the foundational step to receiving God's forgiveness.
4.2 Water Baptism in Jesus' Name
Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 19:5; Colossians 2:12
- Baptism by immersion is a command for all believers, following repentance.
- It is to be administered in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins.
- This act symbolizes our death to sin and resurrection to new life in Christ.
4.3 Receiving the Holy Spirit
Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 10:44-46; Acts 19:6
- The infilling of the Holy Spirit is God's promise to all who believe.
- The initial evidence of receiving the Holy Spirit is speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance.
- The Holy Spirit empowers believers for Christian living and service.
5. Living a Transformed Life
5.1 Continual Growth and Sanctification
Verses: 2 Peter 3:18; Hebrews 12:14; Philippians 2:12
- Salvation is a journey of ongoing spiritual growth and transformation.
- Believers are called to pursue holiness and live a life pleasing to God.
- We are to work out our salvation with fear and trembling, allowing God to work in us.
5.2 Obedience and Discipleship
Verses: John 14:15; Matthew 28:19-20; James 1:22
- Love for God is demonstrated through obedience to His commands.
- Discipleship involves learning from Jesus and following His example.
- We are called to be doers of the word, not hearers only.
5.3 The Hope of Eternal Life
Verses: Titus 2:13; 1 John 2:25; Revelation 21:4
- Believers have a blessed hope in the return of Jesus Christ.
- Eternal life is a gift from God, promised to those who follow His plan.
- In the end, God will wipe away every tear, and there will be no more death or sorrow.