Topical Encyclopedia The concept of the "Completion of God's Work" is a significant theme throughout the Bible, reflecting the divine plan and purpose that God has set forth from the beginning of creation to its ultimate fulfillment. This theme encompasses God's creative acts, His redemptive work through Jesus Christ, and the consummation of all things in the eschaton.Creation and Sovereignty The Bible begins with the account of creation, where God completes His work in six days and rests on the seventh. Genesis 2:2-3 states, "And by the seventh day God had finished the work He had been doing; so on that day He rested from all His work. Then God blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because on that day He rested from all the work of creation that He had accomplished." This completion signifies God's sovereignty and the perfection of His creation. Redemption and Fulfillment in Christ The completion of God's work is also evident in the redemptive mission of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, Jesus' life, death, and resurrection are seen as the fulfillment of God's salvific plan. On the cross, Jesus declared, "It is finished" (John 19:30), signifying the completion of His atoning work for humanity's sins. This act of redemption is central to Christian theology, emphasizing that through Christ, God's work of salvation is accomplished. The Role of Believers Believers are called to participate in the ongoing work of God, living out their faith and contributing to the advancement of His kingdom. Philippians 1:6 assures believers of God's continued work in their lives: "being confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will continue to perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus." This verse highlights the process of sanctification, where God completes His work in the lives of individuals, preparing them for eternal life. Eschatological Completion The Bible also speaks of the ultimate completion of God's work in the eschatological future. Revelation 21:6 declares, "And He said to me, 'It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. To the thirsty I will give freely from the spring of the water of life.'" This passage points to the final consummation of God's plan, where He will establish a new heaven and a new earth, bringing His creation to its intended fulfillment. Theological Implications The completion of God's work underscores His faithfulness and the certainty of His promises. It assures believers that God's purposes will be accomplished, despite the challenges and uncertainties of the present world. This theme encourages Christians to trust in God's timing and to remain steadfast in their faith, knowing that He is working all things together for good (Romans 8:28). In summary, the completion of God's work is a multifaceted theme that spans the entirety of Scripture, from creation to redemption, and ultimately to the eschatological fulfillment of all things. It reflects God's sovereign will, His redemptive love through Christ, and the hope of eternal life for believers. |