The Two-Fold purpose of God

GOD’S TWO-FOLD PURPOSE PT2 Genesis 1:1 – In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth 1. SINCE THE BEGINNING (Review) a) God’s will is clearly stated in Eph 1:9-11. b) Since the world began – Luke 1:68-70, Acts 3:18-21 c) Before the world began – Rom 16:25, Col 1:25-26. d) In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth, two different realms – Genesis 1:1, Psalms 102:25, Isa 48:13, 1Cor 15:48-49 2. GOD’S PLAN FOR HEAVENLY PLACES a) This plan was kept secret since the world began – Rom 16:25 – (Hid in God) – Eph 3:9, Col 1:25-28. b) Satan rebelled in pride and took angels with him – Gen 3:1, Rev 12:9, Isa 14:12, Luke 10:18, Rev 12:4 c) 1Cor 2:7-8 explains part of the reason God kept it secret. d) The mystery is the Body of Christ, a new creature – 2Cor 5:17, Gal 6:15, Eph 5:30-32 e) You become a member of this new creature by grace through faith in the work of Christ – Eph 2:8-9, Rom 4:23-25. f) Members of the new creature have a position in heavenly places – Eph 1:3, 2:6-7, 2Tim 4:18. g) We will be working there, having a job to do – 1Cor 6:3 3. THINGS OF HEAVEN IN CHRIST a) You are in Christ by faith in his cross work and resurrection – Rom 3:23-25, Gal 3:26-28, Eph 2:13, 1Cor 15:19-22, b) The Spirit places you in Christ and seals you upon your faith - Eph 1:13-14, 4:30, 1Cor 12:13, 2Cor 1:21-22 c) God will use his body in some way to assist in the ministry of redeeming the heavenly places – Eph 3:9-11, Col 2:10,