Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "What He Has Done" refers to the mighty acts and deeds of God as recorded in the Bible. These acts are central to understanding God's character, His relationship with humanity, and His overarching plan for creation. The Bible is replete with accounts of God's interventions, miracles, and providential care, which serve as a testament to His power, love, and faithfulness.Creation The Bible begins with the account of creation, where God speaks the universe into existence. Genesis 1:1-3 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Now the earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the surface of the waters. And God said, 'Let there be light,' and there was light." This act of creation is foundational, demonstrating God's sovereignty and authority over all things. Covenants Throughout the Old Testament, God establishes covenants with His people, promising to be their God and to bless them. The covenant with Noah (Genesis 9:8-17), the Abrahamic covenant (Genesis 12:1-3), the Mosaic covenant (Exodus 19-24), and the Davidic covenant (2 Samuel 7:12-16) are key examples. These covenants reveal God's commitment to His creation and His plan to redeem and restore humanity. Deliverance and Salvation One of the most significant acts of God is the deliverance of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. The book of Exodus details how God, through Moses, leads His people out of bondage, culminating in the parting of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:21-22): "Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the LORD drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. So the waters were divided, and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with walls of water on their right and on their left." This event is a powerful symbol of God's saving power and His ability to rescue His people from oppression. Provision and Sustenance God's provision is evident throughout the Bible, as He meets the needs of His people. In the wilderness, God provides manna and quail for the Israelites (Exodus 16:13-15): "That evening quail came and covered the camp, and in the morning there was a layer of dew around the camp. When the dew was gone, thin flakes like frost on the ground appeared on the desert floor. When the Israelites saw it, they asked one another, 'What is it?' For they did not know what it was. So Moses told them, 'It is the bread that the LORD has given you to eat.'" This miraculous provision underscores God's care and sustenance for His people. Judgment and Justice God's acts of judgment are also a significant aspect of what He has done. The flood in the time of Noah (Genesis 6-9) and the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah (Genesis 19) are examples of God's righteous judgment against sin. These acts serve as warnings and reminders of God's holiness and justice. Incarnation and Redemption The New Testament reveals the ultimate act of God in the incarnation of Jesus Christ. John 1:14 declares, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." Through Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, God accomplishes the redemption of humanity, offering salvation to all who believe. Romans 5:8 states, "But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." The Holy Spirit and the Church After Jesus' ascension, God sends the Holy Spirit to empower and guide the Church. Acts 2:4 describes the day of Pentecost: "And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them." The Holy Spirit's work in the lives of believers and the growth of the Church are ongoing acts of God, demonstrating His presence and activity in the world. Future Promises The Bible concludes with the promise of God's ultimate act of restoration and renewal. Revelation 21:1-4 describes a new heaven and a new earth, where God will dwell with His people, and there will be no more death, mourning, crying, or pain. This future hope is the culmination of all that God has done and will do, fulfilling His promises and establishing His eternal kingdom. |