(Present Truths or the Supernatural) 1. THE SUPERNATURAL GOD
A.B. Simpson emphasizes that the Bible reveals a supernatural God who is eternal, sovereign, and central to all creation and redemption.
In this teaching sermon, A.B. Simpson explores the supernatural nature of God as revealed in the Bible, emphasizing God's eternal presence from the beginning of creation to the consummation of redemption. Simpson highlights the significance of God as the Alpha and Omega, framing the entire biblical narrative around His sovereignty. This sermon invites listeners to deepen their understanding of God's divine nature and His central role in the story of salvation.
Text
The first sentence in the Bible brings us face to face not with men nor even with nature but with God -- "In the beginning God." True, there is a verb "created" that follows; but long before we reach that, there is an emphatic pause, and the infinite Deity stands before us filling immensity and embosoming within His own being the whole creation and the myriad beings that are afterwards to come forth from His almighty hand. The Book begins with God, and it would be a good thing if every book and every chapter in every life had the same safe and sublime beginning.
The Book also ends with God. We turn to the last message and we read in the Apocalypse, "I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending, says the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty." He that began as Alpha is ending as Omega, and between these two extremes lies the whole story of redemption.
If we turn to the last verse of the Apocalypse, leaving out the benediction, we find that the Book ends with Jesus Christ. It begins with God and ends with Jesus Christ and between these two divine names lies the whole story of revelation.
In beautiful similarity the apostle\
Sermon Outline
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I
- The Bible begins with God, emphasizing His primacy
- God is infinite and sovereign over all creation
- The creation narrative centers on God's almighty hand
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II
- The Bible ends with God, affirming His eternal nature
- Jesus Christ is the Alpha and Omega, beginning and end
- The story of redemption is framed between God's eternal presence
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III
- The unity of revelation from Genesis to Revelation
- God’s nature as revealed through creation and redemption
- The importance of recognizing God’s supernatural role
Key Quotes
“The first sentence in the Bible brings us face to face not with men nor even with nature but with God -- 'In the beginning God.'” — A.B. Simpson
“He that began as Alpha is ending as Omega, and between these two extremes lies the whole story of redemption.” — A.B. Simpson
“The Book begins with God, and it would be a good thing if every book and every chapter in every life had the same safe and sublime beginning.” — A.B. Simpson
Application Points
- Begin each day with a focus on God’s sovereignty as the foundation of all life.
- Trust in God’s eternal plan through all seasons of life, knowing He is the Alpha and Omega.
- Allow the understanding of God’s supernatural nature to deepen your faith and commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the phrase 'In the beginning God' signify?
It emphasizes that God exists before all creation and is the ultimate source of everything.
Why does the sermon highlight both the beginning and the end of the Bible?
To show God's eternal nature and His sovereign role throughout all history and redemption.
Who is described as the Alpha and Omega?
Jesus Christ is described as the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end.
What is the central theme of the sermon?
The central theme is the supernatural nature of God as revealed in Scripture from creation to redemption.
How does this sermon encourage believers?
It encourages believers to recognize God's supremacy and to live with a focus on His eternal plan.