May 29, 2025
From Genesis to Revelation , the Bible tells a story of a God who passionately loves all people, from every tribe, tongue, and nation. God’s heart for the nations is not a subplot in the biblical narrative—it is the main storyline. It is the unfolding plan of redemption for the whole world, and it reveals a God who is relentlessly committed to drawing all people to Himself for His glory and our good. 1. A Global Vision from the Beginning God’s mission to the nations begins not in the New Testament, but in the very first book of the Bible. When God called Abraham in Genesis 12, He made a bold and far-reaching promise: “I will make you into a great nation… and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you.” – Genesis 12:2–3 From the beginning, God’s covenant with His people had a global purpose. Israel was chosen not as an exclusive club, but as a light to the nations—a people set apart to reflect God's character and extend His blessings to the world. 2. God’s Glory Among All Peoples God’s passion for the nations is ultimately about His glory. The Psalms are full of declarations that all the earth should worship the Lord: “Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.” – Psalm 96:3 “Let the nations be glad and sing for joy!” – Psalm 67:4 God desires worship from every corner of the earth. He is not a tribal god or a local deity—He is the Creator and King of all. His worth demands global praise, and His heart aches for those who have not yet heard. 3. Jesus: The Fulfillment of the Global Promise Jesus Christ is the fulfillment of God's global promise. His life, death, and resurrection were not just for one nation, but for all people. “For God so loved the world…” – John 3:16 Throughout His ministry, Jesus reached out to Gentiles, healed Roman servants, spoke with Samaritans, and praised the faith of foreigners. And before ascending to heaven, He gave His disciples a clear commission: “Go and make disciples of all nations…” – Matthew 28:19 The Great Commission is not a suggestion—it is the heartbeat of God expressed through the mission of the Church.