Topical Encyclopedia
The concept of God's marvelous work is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting His divine power, wisdom, and love manifested in creation, redemption, and ongoing providence. This entry explores the multifaceted nature of God's work as revealed in Scripture.
CreationThe Bible begins with the account of God's marvelous work in creation.
Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." This foundational act of creation is a testament to God's omnipotence and sovereignty. The intricate design and order of the universe, from the vastness of the cosmos to the complexity of living organisms, reflect His wisdom and creativity.
Psalm 19:1 declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands."
ProvidenceGod's marvelous work is not limited to the initial act of creation but extends to His ongoing providence. He sustains and governs all things, ensuring the continuation and order of the universe.
Colossians 1:17 affirms, "He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." God's providential care is evident in the natural world, the rise and fall of nations, and the lives of individuals.
Matthew 6:26 illustrates this care: "Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns—and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them."
RedemptionThe pinnacle of God's marvelous work is found in the redemption of humanity through Jesus Christ. The incarnation, life, death, and resurrection of Christ are central to God's redemptive plan.
John 3:16 encapsulates this work: "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." Through Christ's sacrifice, believers are reconciled to God, forgiven of their sins, and granted eternal life.
MiraclesThroughout the Bible, miracles serve as manifestations of God's marvelous work, demonstrating His power and authority over creation. From the parting of the Red Sea (
Exodus 14:21-22) to the healing of the blind and the raising of the dead (
John 11:43-44), these acts reveal God's compassion and serve as signs pointing to His divine nature and the truth of His message.
TransformationGod's marvelous work is also evident in the transformation of individuals and communities. Through the work of the Holy Spirit, believers are sanctified and conformed to the image of Christ.
2 Corinthians 5:17 states, "Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come!" This transformative work is a testament to God's ongoing involvement in the lives of His people.
The ChurchThe establishment and growth of the Church is another aspect of God's marvelous work. As the body of Christ, the Church is called to be a light to the world, proclaiming the gospel and demonstrating God's love and justice.
Ephesians 2:10 describes believers as "God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance as our way of life."
Eschatological FulfillmentFinally, God's marvelous work will culminate in the eschatological fulfillment of His promises. The Bible speaks of a future where God will create a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells (
2 Peter 3:13).
Revelation 21:4 promises, "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the former things have passed away." This future hope is the ultimate expression of God's marvelous work, bringing His redemptive plan to completion.