The concept of appealing to God's past deeds is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, serving as a foundation for faith, prayer, and worship. This appeal is often used by biblical figures to remind God of His previous acts of deliverance, mercy, and faithfulness, thereby invoking His continued intervention and support in present circumstances.

Old Testament Examples

1. Moses and the Exodus: One of the most prominent examples is found in the narrative of the Exodus. When the Israelites faced challenges, Moses frequently reminded God of His covenant and past deeds. In Exodus 32:11-14, after the Israelites sinned by making the golden calf, Moses interceded by recalling God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and His mighty acts in delivering the Israelites from Egypt. This appeal was instrumental in averting God's wrath.

2. The Psalms: The Psalms are replete with appeals to God's past deeds. Psalm 77:11-12 states, "I will remember the works of the LORD; yes, I will remember Your wonders of old. I will reflect on all You have done and ponder Your mighty deeds." Here, the psalmist finds comfort and hope by recalling God's historical acts of salvation and power.

3. Nehemiah's Prayer: In Nehemiah 9, during the renewal of the covenant, the Levites recounted God's past deeds, from creation to the Exodus, as a basis for their plea for mercy and restoration. This historical recounting served to remind the people of God's enduring faithfulness despite their repeated unfaithfulness.

New Testament Context

1. Stephen's Speech: In Acts 7, Stephen delivers a speech before the Sanhedrin, recounting the history of Israel and God's mighty works through figures like Abraham, Joseph, and Moses. This historical recounting serves as a backdrop to highlight God's consistent faithfulness and the people's recurrent disobedience.

2. Paul's Letters: The Apostle Paul often appeals to God's past deeds as a basis for faith and encouragement. In Romans 15:4 , he writes, "For everything that was written in the past was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures, we might have hope." Here, Paul underscores the importance of remembering God's past actions as a source of hope and instruction.

Theological Significance

The appeal to God's past deeds is not merely a historical recounting but serves several theological purposes:

· Affirmation of God's Character: By recalling God's past actions, believers affirm His unchanging nature—His faithfulness, mercy, and power. This affirmation strengthens faith and trust in God's present and future dealings.

· Basis for Intercession: Biblical figures often used God's past deeds as a basis for intercession, reminding God of His promises and character. This form of prayer reflects a deep relationship with God, rooted in the knowledge of His historical faithfulness.

· Encouragement and Hope: Remembering God's past deeds provides encouragement and hope, especially in times of trial. It reassures believers that the God who acted in history is the same God who is present and active today.

· Covenantal Relationship: The appeal to past deeds often highlights the covenantal relationship between God and His people. It serves as a reminder of the mutual commitments and the assurance of God's steadfast love and faithfulness.

In summary, the appeal to God's past deeds is a powerful biblical motif that underscores the continuity of God's actions throughout history, providing a foundation for faith, prayer, and worship. It invites believers to trust in God's unchanging nature and His ongoing involvement in the world.