Topical Encyclopedia
God's declarations throughout the Bible are profound expressions of His will, character, and purposes. These declarations are often direct communications from God to humanity, revealing His divine nature and sovereign plans. They are found throughout both the Old and New Testaments and serve as foundational truths for understanding God's relationship with His creation.
Creation and SovereigntyOne of the earliest and most significant declarations of God is found in the account of creation. In
Genesis 1:3, God declares, "Let there be light," and light comes into existence. This declaration not only marks the beginning of creation but also establishes God's authority and power over the universe. God's spoken word is creative and authoritative, underscoring His sovereignty over all things.
Covenantal PromisesGod's declarations often come in the form of covenantal promises. In
Genesis 12:1-3, God declares to Abram, "Go from your country, your people and your father's household to the land I will show you. I will make you into a great nation, and I will bless you." This promise establishes the Abrahamic Covenant, through which God pledges to bless Abram and make his descendants a great nation. Such declarations are pivotal in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan.
The Law and CommandmentsIn
Exodus 20, God declares the Ten Commandments to Moses on Mount Sinai. These declarations form the basis of the Mosaic Law and are central to the covenant between God and Israel.
Exodus 20:1-2 states, "And God spoke all these words: 'I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.'" These commandments reveal God's moral standards and His desire for His people to live in holiness and obedience.
Prophetic DeclarationsThroughout the prophetic books, God makes numerous declarations through His prophets. These declarations often include calls to repentance, warnings of judgment, and promises of restoration. For example, in
Isaiah 55:11, God declares, "So My word that proceeds from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please, and it will prosper where I send it." This emphasizes the certainty and effectiveness of God's spoken word.
The Coming of the MessiahGod's declarations concerning the coming of the Messiah are central to the biblical narrative. In
Isaiah 9:6, God declares, "For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given, and the government will be upon His shoulders." This prophetic declaration points to the birth of Jesus Christ, the fulfillment of God's promise of salvation.
The New CovenantIn the New Testament, God's declarations continue with the establishment of the New Covenant through Jesus Christ. In
Luke 22:20, during the Last Supper, Jesus declares, "This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is poured out for you." This declaration signifies the fulfillment of God's redemptive plan and the establishment of a new relationship between God and humanity through the sacrifice of Christ.
Final DeclarationsThe book of Revelation contains God's final declarations concerning the end times and the ultimate fulfillment of His purposes. In
Revelation 21:5, God declares, "Behold, I make all things new." This promise of renewal and restoration encapsulates God's ultimate plan for creation, where He will dwell with His people in a new heaven and a new earth.
God's declarations throughout Scripture reveal His unchanging nature, His sovereign will, and His redemptive purposes. They are foundational to understanding the character of God and His relationship with humanity.