Introduction

The act of remembering God's past deeds is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, serving as a vital practice for the faithful. It is both a command and a source of encouragement, reminding believers of God's faithfulness, power, and love. This practice is deeply rooted in the history of Israel and extends into the New Testament, where it continues to inspire and strengthen the Church.

Old Testament Foundations

In the Old Testament, the Israelites are frequently called to remember the mighty works of God. This remembrance is not merely a mental exercise but a spiritual discipline that reinforces faith and obedience. The Psalms, in particular, are rich with calls to remember God's deeds. Psalm 77:11-12 states, "I will remember the works of the LORD; yes, I will remember Your wonders of old. I will reflect on all You have done and ponder Your mighty deeds."

The Exodus is a central event that God commands His people to remember. In Deuteronomy 5:15 , Moses instructs the Israelites, "Remember that you were a slave in the land of Egypt, and the LORD your God brought you out of there with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm." This act of deliverance is commemorated annually through the Passover, serving as a perpetual reminder of God's saving power.

Memorials and Symbols

Throughout the Old Testament, God establishes physical memorials to aid in remembrance. In Joshua 4:6-7 , after crossing the Jordan River, the Israelites set up twelve stones as a memorial: "In the future, when your children ask you, ‘What do these stones mean to you?’ you are to tell them, ‘The waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD. When it crossed the Jordan, the waters were cut off.’ Therefore these stones will be a memorial to the Israelites forever."

These tangible reminders serve to educate future generations about God's faithfulness and to encourage continued trust in His promises.

Prophetic Remembrance

The prophets often call the people to remember God's past deeds as a means of repentance and renewal. In Isaiah 46:9 , God declares, "Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me." This call to remembrance is a call to recognize God's sovereignty and to return to Him with renewed faithfulness.

New Testament Continuation

In the New Testament, the practice of remembering God's deeds is continued and expanded through the life and work of Jesus Christ. The Last Supper, as recorded in Luke 22:19 , is instituted as a memorial: "And He took bread, gave thanks, broke it, and gave it to them, saying, 'This is My body, given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.'" The Lord's Supper becomes a central act of worship, reminding believers of Christ's sacrificial death and the new covenant established through His blood.

Apostolic Encouragement

The apostles encourage the early Church to remember God's deeds as a source of hope and perseverance. In 2 Peter 3:2 , Peter exhorts believers to "recall the words spoken in the past by the holy prophets and the commandment of our Lord and Savior through your apostles." This remembrance is intended to fortify the Church against false teachings and to keep the hope of Christ's return alive.

Practical Application

For contemporary believers, remembering God's past deeds is a vital practice that strengthens faith and fosters gratitude. It involves regular engagement with Scripture, participation in communal worship, and personal reflection on God's work in one's life. By recalling God's faithfulness in the past, believers are equipped to trust Him in the present and future, confident in His unchanging nature and steadfast love.