Introduction

God's global purpose is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting His sovereign plan for creation and His desire for all nations to know Him. This purpose is woven through the narrative of Scripture, from Genesis to Revelation, and is characterized by God's intention to bless all peoples and establish His kingdom on earth.

Old Testament Foundations

The global purpose of God is first hinted at in the creation narrative, where humanity is made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This sets the stage for a relationship between God and all people. The call of Abraham marks a significant development in God's plan. In Genesis 12:3, God promises Abraham, "I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you; and all the families of the earth will be blessed through you." This covenant establishes a foundation for God's redemptive plan for all nations.

The Psalms and the Prophets further articulate God's desire for the nations. Psalm 67:2-3 declares, "that Your ways may be known on earth, Your salvation among all nations. Let the peoples praise You, O God; let all the peoples praise You." Similarly, Isaiah 49:6 states, "I will also make You a light for the nations, to bring My salvation to the ends of the earth." These passages reveal God's intention for His glory and salvation to reach beyond Israel to all peoples.

New Testament Fulfillment

The New Testament reveals the fulfillment of God's global purpose through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Jesus' Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 commands His followers, "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This mandate underscores the universal scope of the gospel and the call for the church to engage in global mission.

The book of Acts records the early church's obedience to this commission, as the gospel spreads from Jerusalem to Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). The apostle Paul, in particular, embodies this mission, as he travels extensively to proclaim the gospel to Gentile nations, affirming in Romans 1:16, "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, then to the Greek."

Eschatological Vision

The culmination of God's global purpose is vividly depicted in the book of Revelation. Revelation 7:9-10 presents a vision of a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language standing before the throne and before the Lamb, crying out, "Salvation to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!" This eschatological vision confirms the fulfillment of God's promise to bless all nations and establish His eternal kingdom.

The Role of the Church

The church is the primary instrument through which God's global purpose is realized. Believers are called to be ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), tasked with the ministry of reconciliation and the proclamation of the gospel to all nations. The church's mission is to reflect God's heart for the world, embodying His love and justice, and working towards the fulfillment of His redemptive plan.

Conclusion

God's global purpose is a testament to His love and sovereignty, revealing His desire for all people to know Him and experience His salvation. This divine plan, rooted in Scripture, calls believers to participate in the mission of God, advancing His kingdom and glorifying His name among the nations.