01-21-2026 PART 2: God With Us from the Beginning to Redemption
Section 1
The foundation of everything begins with four unmistakable words: In the beginning, God. Scripture does not start with philosophy, science, religion, or human effort, but with God Himself as the uncaused cause of all creation. Humanity was created not out of divine boredom or experimentation, but for fellowship. God desired relationship, connection, and shared life with people made in His image. That purpose gives meaning to existence itself. Yet Genesis 3 introduces the fracture of that fellowship through sin, fear, and blame. Humanity lost innocence and unhindered relationship with God, not because God failed, but because people chose independence over trust. Still, even in that loss, God’s Word stands unshaken, enduring beyond the present heavens and earth and pointing forward to renewal rather than abandonment.
Section 2
God’s response to human failure was not withdrawal but redemption. Knowing humanity would fall, God prepared the solution in advance, revealing His love most clearly in giving His only Son. John 3:16 declares both the depth of God’s love and the open invitation to believe, not as a one-time action, but as a continuing trust. Eternal life flows from ongoing faith in Jesus Christ, the Son given because God both loves and desires people. This truth corrects the lie that God merely tolerates humanity. God likes what He has created, values uniqueness, and seeks restored fellowship. Salvation is not earned, improved upon, or maintained by human effort, but secured by God’s commitment to redeem what He loves.
Section 3
The name Immanuel, God with us, captures the heart of the gospel. God did not remain distant but entered human history, taking on flesh and humbling Himself in obedience unto death. Philippians reveals that Jesus, fully God, chose servanthood so humanity could be restored to God. This was not forced relationship but invited fellowship, honoring human response rather than robotic compliance. God desires people who willingly draw near to Him. The incarnation demonstrates that desire unmistakably. Just as Christ lowered Himself to rescue humanity, He continues to call people into relationship, faith, and trust. The message is simple yet profound: God wants to be with us, has made the way through Jesus Christ, and invites all who will believe to share eternal fellowship with Him.
