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The Bible is one grand narrative; it tells ONE story. The story of redemption spans from Genesis to Revelation, featuring our great God and His plan for His creation. The Old Testament points forward to the New Testament, and the New Testament is the fulfillment of the Old Testament. As we begin to see the connections, Scripture takes on a whole new meaning. There are treasures to be discovered.
Over the next 8 weeks, we will be exploring the story of the Bible from cover to cover. As we move through the Bible chronologically, we will stop at places along the way that speak to God’s plan throughout the history of redemption. In this unfolding drama, we will meet people that God used for His purposes, places that were sacred, and events that shaped the narrative. Nothing is by accident. Every bit of Scripture is God-breathed, purposefully pointing us to the Master Storyteller and Redeemer of our souls.
36. Spiritual Blessings
We are blessed beyond measure. We, who are followers of Jesus, have been blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ. We have been chosen, redeemed, adopted, forgiven, and sealed by the Holy Spirit. God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive in Christ and called us to good works, which He prepared for us before the foundation of the world. Both the character of God and His lavish blessings give us ample reason to bless God. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless His holy name!
37. The Love of God
God is love. Love is not merely an aspect of His character, it is the totality of who He is. God’s great love has been demonstrated in that He calls us His children. Isaiah wrote that the mountains may move and the hills shake, but God’s love will never be removed from us. We can be confident of this, even in the most desperate and difficult situations. There is no fear in love because perfect love casts out fear. As God’s children, we are called to love one another, not merely in words but also in action.
38. The Throne Room of God
We get a few precious glimpses in Scripture into the throne room of God. The Apostle John, while on the island of Patmos, was invited to come up and see the heavenly throne room. The One seated on the throne was surrounded by indescribable glory and myriads of angels proclaiming, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty.”Living creatures worshiped, bowed down and cast their crowns before the throne. Isaiah had a similar vision and immediately recognized his own utter sinfulness compared to God’s glory.
39. The Return of Christ
One day the heavens will be opened and the Rider on the white horse, whose name is Faithful and True, will return in all His glory, just as He promised. The armies of heaven will be following Him (that’s us!). Written on His robe is the name King of Kings and Lord of Lords. His feet will touch the Mount of Olives, splitting it in half. Satan will be bound for 1000 years and Christ will reign with His people on the earth. Blessed and holy are the ones who share in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them.
40. New Heavens and New Earth
The Bible began in a garden paradise and ends in a glorious eternal city. There will be a new heavens and a new earth and the new Jerusalem coming down out of heaven from God, like a bride adorned for her husband. There will be no need for the sun or moon because the glory of God illuminates this city. The river of life will flow from the throne of God, and the tree of life, bearing twelve kinds of fruit each year, will grow on either side of the river. No more tears. No more pain. No more death. He is coming soon. Come, Lord Jesus!
This 40-day Bible reading plan spans the metanarrative of the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, making stops along the way that speak to God's plan throughout the history of redemption.
Each day includes three passages of Scripture totalling 4-5 chapters of daily reading, a bit from the Old Testament, a bit from the New Testament and a psalm. Challenge yourself to look for connections as you read. Remember, the Bible is ONE story!