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The Feast Of Salvation: Celebrating God's Goodness Isaiah 25:1 Series
Contributed by Dean Courtier on Mar 6, 2024 (message contributor)
Summary: Celebrate the goodness of our God, His faithfulness and His divine plan for salvation,
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The Feast of Salvation: Celebrating God's Goodness Isaiah 25:1
Introduction:
Today, we gather to celebrate the goodness of our God, as proclaimed in Isaiah 25:1: "O Lord, I will honor and praise your name, for you are my God. You do such wonderful things! You planned them long ago, and now you have accomplished them."
In this verse, we are reminded of God's faithfulness and His divine plan for salvation, which He has fulfilled through Jesus Christ. As we explore this passage further, let us uncover the transformative truths that can impact our lives and draw us closer to our Heavenly Father.
1. The Sovereignty of God's Plan:
Isaiah 25:1 (NLT) - "O Lord, I will honour and praise your name, for you are my God. You do such wonderful things! You planned them long ago, and now you have accomplished them."
This verse begins with a declaration of praise to God for His sovereignty and faithfulness. It acknowledges that God's plans are not haphazard or random but are meticulously crafted and executed according to His divine wisdom and purpose. The psalmist marvels at God's wonderful deeds, recognising that they were ordained by Him from eternity past and have now come to fruition.
Charles H. Spurgeon reflects on God's sovereignty, saying, "There is no attribute more comforting to His children than that of God's sovereignty. Under the most adverse circumstances, in the most severe trials, they believe that sovereignty hath ordained their afflictions, that sovereignty overrules them, and that sovereignty will sanctify them all."
Proverbs 19:21 (NLT) - "You can make many plans, but the Lord's purpose will prevail."
Proverbs provides timeless wisdom, reminding us that while we may make plans and set goals, it is ultimately God's purpose that will prevail. This verse encourages humility and trust in God's sovereignty, recognizing that His divine plan supersedes our limited understanding and human efforts.
2. The Assurance of Salvation:
Isaiah 25:9 (NLT) - "In that day the people will proclaim, 'This is our God! We trusted in him, and he saved us! This is the Lord, in whom we trusted. Let us rejoice in the salvation he brings!'"
This verse speaks prophetically of a future day of redemption when God's people will joyfully proclaim His salvation. It highlights the intimate relationship between trust in God and the experience of His deliverance. It serves as a reminder of the assurance believers have in God's saving grace, leading to rejoicing and praise for His faithfulness.
This verse speaks of the future day of redemption when God's people will rejoice in His salvation. It emphasises the confidence and trust that believers have in God, knowing that He is their Saviour and Deliverer. The proclamation of "This is our God!" reflects a deep personal relationship with the Lord, based on faith and reliance on His saving grace.
Billy Graham affirms the assurance of salvation, stating, "Being a Christian is more than just an instantaneous conversion - it is a daily process whereby you grow to be more and more like Christ."
Psalm 37:39-40 (NLT) - "The Lord rescues the godly; he is their fortress in times of trouble. The Lord helps them, rescuing them from the wicked. He saves them, and they find shelter in him."
These verses from Psalms affirm God's faithfulness in delivering the righteous from trouble and providing them with refuge and salvation. They reassure believers of God's protective care and ultimate victory over evil, inspiring confidence and trust in His sovereign power.
3.The Celebration of God's Goodness:
Isaiah 25:6 (NLT) - "In Jerusalem, the Lord of Heaven's Armies will spread a wonderful feast for all the people of the world. It will be a delicious banquet with clear, well-aged wine and choice meat."
This verse portrays a joyous scene of celebration and abundance, symbolising the spiritual blessings and eternal fellowship that believers will experience in God's presence. The imagery of a lavish feast signifies God's provision, generosity, and hospitality towards His people. It reflects the richness of His grace and the depth of His love, inviting all nations to partake in the divine banquet.
C.S. Lewis describes the joy of fellowship with God, saying, "Joy is the serious business of Heaven."
Revelation 19:9 (NLT) - "And the angel said to me, 'Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding feast of the Lamb.' And he added, 'These are true words that come from God.'"
Revelation offers a glimpse of the future wedding feast of the Lamb, symbolizing the ultimate union between Christ and His bride, the Church. It signifies the culmination of God's redemptive plan and the eternal celebration of His victory over sin and death. It encourages believers to anticipate with joy and anticipation their participation in this glorious event.
Conclusion:
In summary, these passages collectively affirm God's sovereignty, faithfulness, and salvation, inviting believers to trust in His divine plan, rejoice in His deliverance, and eagerly anticipate the eternal feast of His kingdom. They inspire confidence and hope in the hearts of God's people, reminding them of His unfailing love and provision throughout all generations.