Restoration

In the biblical context, restoration refers to the act of God bringing His people back to a state of spiritual health, prosperity, and relationship with Him after a period of decline, sin, or exile. The theme of restoration is prevalent throughout the Scriptures, highlighting God's redemptive plan and His desire to renew and restore His creation.

The Old Testament frequently addresses the theme of restoration, particularly in the context of Israel's history. After periods of disobedience and subsequent judgment, God promises to restore His people. In the book of Jeremiah, God declares, "For I will restore you to health and heal your wounds," declares the LORD, "because they called you an outcast, saying: 'This is Zion, whom no one cares for'" (Jeremiah 30:17). This promise of restoration is not only physical but also spiritual, as God seeks to renew the hearts of His people.

The prophet Ezekiel also speaks of restoration, particularly in the vision of the valley of dry bones, where God breathes life into the bones, symbolizing the restoration of Israel (Ezekiel 37:1-14). This vision underscores God's power to bring life and hope to what seems dead and hopeless.

In the New Testament, restoration is fulfilled in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Through His death and resurrection, Jesus provides the ultimate restoration for humanity, reconciling us to God. The Apostle Peter speaks of this restoration in Acts 3:21, stating, "Heaven must receive Him until the time comes for God to restore everything, as He promised long ago through His holy prophets" . This restoration is both a present reality and a future hope, as believers await the full consummation of God's kingdom.

Commission

The concept of commission in the Bible refers to the authoritative sending forth of individuals to carry out a specific task or mission, often related to the proclamation of God's word and the advancement of His kingdom. This theme is central to the mission of God's people throughout Scripture.

In the Old Testament, God commissions various individuals for specific purposes. For example, Moses is commissioned to lead the Israelites out of Egypt (Exodus 3:10), and the prophets are commissioned to deliver God's messages to His people (Isaiah 6:8-9).

The New Testament highlights the Great Commission, given by Jesus to His disciples after His resurrection. In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus commands, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. 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. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age" . This commission underscores the global scope of the gospel and the responsibility of believers to spread the message of salvation.

The Apostle Paul also speaks of his own commission, emphasizing that he was set apart for the gospel of God (Romans 1:1). His missionary journeys and epistles reflect his commitment to fulfilling this divine mandate.

The theme of commission is not limited to the apostles but extends to all believers, who are called to be ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20). This calling involves living out the gospel in word and deed, bearing witness to the transformative power of Christ in their lives.