Restoration

Restoration in the biblical context refers to the act of God bringing individuals, communities, or nations back to a state of spiritual health, prosperity, and right relationship with Him. This theme is prevalent throughout Scripture, illustrating God's desire to redeem and renew His creation.

1. Old Testament Foundations: The concept of restoration is deeply rooted in the Old Testament. After the fall of man, God initiated a plan of restoration through covenants with figures like Noah, Abraham, and Moses. The prophets frequently spoke of restoration, particularly in the context of Israel's exile and return. For instance, Jeremiah 30:17 declares, "But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds, declares the LORD, because they called you an outcast, Zion for whom no one cares."

2. Restoration of Israel: The restoration of Israel is a central theme, especially in the prophetic books. Ezekiel 36:24-28 speaks of God gathering His people from the nations, cleansing them, and giving them a new heart and spirit. This promise of restoration is both physical and spiritual, pointing to a future hope for Israel.

3. Personal Restoration: On a personal level, restoration involves repentance and returning to God. Psalm 51:12 is a plea for personal restoration: "Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and sustain me with a willing spirit." This highlights the individual aspect of restoration, where believers seek renewal in their relationship with God.

4. New Testament Fulfillment: In the New Testament, Jesus Christ embodies the ultimate restoration. Through His death and resurrection, He restores humanity's broken relationship with God. Acts 3:21 speaks of Jesus, "whom heaven must receive until the time comes for God to restore everything, as He promised long ago through His holy prophets."

Commissioning

Commissioning in the Bible refers to the act of being appointed and sent out by God for a specific purpose or mission. This concept is integral to the mission of God's people throughout Scripture.

1. Old Testament Examples: Commissioning is evident in the lives of many Old Testament figures. Moses was commissioned at the burning bush (Exodus 3:10), where God said, "So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring My people the Israelites out of Egypt." Similarly, Isaiah received his commission in a vision, responding to God's call with, "Here am I. Send me!" (Isaiah 6:8).

2. The Great Commission: The New Testament highlights the commissioning of the disciples by Jesus. The Great Commission in Matthew 28:18-20 is a foundational text: "Then Jesus came to them and said, '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.'"

3. Empowerment by the Holy Spirit: The commissioning of believers is closely tied to the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. Acts 1:8 states, "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." This empowerment is essential for fulfilling the mission entrusted to believers.

4. Paul's Commissioning: The Apostle Paul’s commissioning is a significant example in the New Testament. In Acts 9:15 , the Lord said to Ananias regarding Paul, "Go! This man is My chosen instrument to carry My name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel."

Restoration and commissioning are intertwined themes that reflect God's redemptive work and His call for His people to participate in His mission. Through restoration, believers are renewed and prepared for the work of the Kingdom, while commissioning sends them forth to fulfill God's purposes on earth.