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The Eternal Word Made Flesh: God's Plan for Universal Redemption

This study explores the profound truth that the one, eternal God, who spoke all creation into existence, manifested Himself in human flesh as Jesus Christ. Through His life, death, and resurrection, He provided the singular path for the redemption and salvation of all humanity, demonstrating His boundless love and power.

1. The One God and His Eternal Word

1.1 The Singularity of God

Verses: Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 44:6; Malachi 2:10
  • There is only one true God, the Creator of all things.
  • This one God is Spirit, invisible, and all-powerful.
  • He is the Father, the source of all being.

1.2 The Word as God's Expression

Verses: John 1:1; Psalm 33:6; Hebrews 11:3
  • The 'Word' is not a separate entity but God's thought, plan, and self-expression.
  • Through His Word, God created the heavens and the earth.
  • The Word reveals God's nature and will.

1.3 The Word's Pre-existence and Power

Verses: John 1:3; Colossians 1:16-17; Hebrews 1:3
  • The Word was with God and was God from eternity.
  • All things were made by Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made.
  • His power sustains the universe.

2. The Incarnation: God Manifested in Flesh

2.1 The Word Became Flesh

Verses: John 1:14; 1 Timothy 3:16; Colossians 2:9
  • The eternal God, in His infinite wisdom, chose to manifest Himself in human form.
  • This was not a separate person, but the one God veiling His deity in humanity.
  • Jesus is the full embodiment of the Godhead.

2.2 Jesus: God's Name and Nature Revealed

Verses: Matthew 1:21; John 14:9; Isaiah 9:6
  • The name Jesus signifies 'Jehovah is Salvation'.
  • In Jesus, we see the Father's love, power, and character perfectly displayed.
  • He is both fully God and fully man.

2.3 The Purpose of the Incarnation

Verses: Hebrews 2:14; John 3:16; 1 John 4:9-10
  • God came in flesh to bridge the gap between Himself and fallen humanity.
  • He came to reveal the Father to us in a tangible way.
  • The ultimate purpose was to provide salvation.

3. The Redemptive Work of Christ

3.1 The Sinless Life of Jesus

Verses: Hebrews 4:15; 1 Peter 2:22; 2 Corinthians 5:21
  • As God manifest in flesh, Jesus lived a perfect, sinless life.
  • His obedience fulfilled all righteousness.
  • He set the example for all believers to follow.

3.2 The Atoning Sacrifice on the Cross

Verses: Romans 5:8; Isaiah 53:5; Ephesians 1:7
  • Jesus, the spotless Lamb of God, willingly laid down His life for the sins of the world.
  • His death was the ultimate sacrifice, providing atonement and reconciliation.
  • Through His blood, we receive forgiveness and cleansing.

3.3 The Victorious Resurrection and Ascension

Verses: Romans 1:4; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; Acts 1:9-11
  • God raised Jesus from the dead, demonstrating His power over sin and death.
  • His resurrection guarantees our future resurrection and eternal life.
  • He ascended to heaven, where He reigns supreme as Lord of all.

4. The Universal Call to Salvation

4.1 Repentance and Water Baptism in Jesus' Name

Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Colossians 3:17
  • Salvation begins with genuine repentance from sin.
  • Water baptism is commanded for the remission of sins.
  • Baptism must be administered in the name of Jesus Christ, as commanded by the apostles.

4.2 Receiving the Holy Spirit

Verses: Acts 2:4; Acts 19:6; Romans 8:9
  • After baptism, believers are to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
  • The initial evidence of receiving the Holy Spirit is speaking in other tongues.
  • The Holy Spirit empowers believers for a holy life and service.

4.3 Living a Life of Holiness and Expectation

Verses: Hebrews 12:14; Galatians 5:22-23; Titus 2:13
  • True salvation leads to a transformed life of obedience and holiness.
  • Believers are called to walk in the Spirit and bear spiritual fruit.
  • We eagerly await the glorious return of Jesus Christ.

4.4 The Global Scope of Redemption

Verses: Mark 16:15; Revelation 7:9; John 3:17
  • God's plan of salvation is for all people, nations, and tongues.
  • The gospel is to be preached to every creature.
  • Billions of sinners across the world are invited to partake in this redemption.