Topical Encyclopedia
The works and deeds of God are a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting His character, power, and purpose. These acts are not only historical events but also reveal His ongoing involvement in creation and human history. God's works are often categorized into creation, providence, redemption, and judgment.
CreationThe Bible begins with the account of God's creative work.
Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." This foundational act demonstrates God's sovereignty and power, as He speaks the universe into existence. The creation narrative continues to describe how God formed the earth, filled it with life, and created humanity in His image (
Genesis 1:26-27). The psalmist reflects on the majesty of God's creation, declaring, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands" (
Psalm 19:1).
ProvidenceGod's providential works are His ongoing involvement in sustaining and governing the universe. He is depicted as actively maintaining the order and function of creation.
Colossians 1:17 affirms, "He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together." God's providence extends to the details of human life, as seen in
Matthew 6:26 , where Jesus teaches, "Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns—and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?"
RedemptionThe redemptive works of God are central to the biblical narrative, culminating in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. God's plan of redemption is first hinted at in
Genesis 3:15, where He promises a future victory over sin. Throughout the Old Testament, God delivers His people from bondage, as seen in the Exodus from Egypt (Exodus 14). In the New Testament, the redemptive work is fulfilled in Christ, who "gave Himself as a ransom for all" (
1 Timothy 2:6).
Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes that salvation is a work of God: "For it is by grace you have been saved through faith, and this not from yourselves; it is the gift of God, not by works, so that no one can boast."
JudgmentGod's works also include acts of judgment, which are expressions of His holiness and justice. The Bible records numerous instances where God judges individuals and nations for their sin. The flood in
Genesis 6-9 is a prime example of divine judgment, as is the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19). In the New Testament, the final judgment is described in
Revelation 20:12 : "And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books."
MiraclesMiracles are extraordinary works of God that demonstrate His power and authority over creation. Throughout the Bible, miracles serve as signs of God's presence and purpose. In the Old Testament, miracles such as the parting of the Red Sea (
Exodus 14:21-22) and the provision of manna (Exodus 16) reveal God's care for His people. In the New Testament, Jesus performs numerous miracles, including healing the sick, raising the dead, and calming storms, as evidence of His divine nature and mission (
Matthew 8:23-27).
ConclusionThe works and deeds of God are multifaceted, encompassing creation, providence, redemption, judgment, and miracles. These acts reveal His character and His ongoing relationship with the world. Through His works, God demonstrates His sovereignty, love, justice, and mercy, inviting humanity to respond in faith and obedience.