The Plan of God - The Blood
In a powerful sermon titled "The Plan of God - The Blood," the speaker delves into the profound significance of the blood of Jesus, emphasizing its central role in God's eternal plan of salvation. This message underscores how the concept of blood has been intricately woven into God's covenant with humanity from the very beginning.
The Eternal Foundation
From the outset, God's plan for redemption was intertwined with the concept of blood. The speaker references Revelation 13:8, which reveals that Jesus was "slain from the foundation of the world." This indicates that the shedding of blood was not a mere reaction to sin but an integral part of God's divine strategy.
Blood in the Old Testament
Throughout the Old Testament, blood played a crucial role in maintaining the covenant between God and His people:
Leviticus 17:11 declares, "For the life of the flesh is in the blood," highlighting the life-giving power of blood.
In the narrative of Cain and Abel, Abel's sacrifice was accepted because it involved blood, whereas Cain's was not.
During the Passover, as described in Exodus 12, the Israelites marked their doorposts with the blood of lambs to shield their households from the death angel.
The construction of the tabernacle, as outlined in Exodus 25:8-9, was a heavenly pattern, symbolizing the importance of blood sacrifices in upholding the covenant with God.
The New Covenant through Jesus
Transitioning to the New Testament, the sermon highlights how Jesus's sacrifice fulfilled and surpassed the old covenant:
Hebrews 9:22 asserts that "without the shedding of blood, there is no remission of sins," underscoring the necessity of Jesus's sacrifice.
Jesus's own words in Matthew 26:28 declare His blood as "the blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins."
The speaker further explains how Jesus's sacrifice was unique and eternal, unlike the repeated sacrifices of the Old Testament priests. Hebrews 10:12 states, "But when this High Priest had offered one supreme sacrifice for sin for all time, he sat down on a throne at the right hand of God."
The Transformative Power of Jesus's Blood
The sermon concludes by celebrating the eternal and transformative power of Jesus's blood:
Colossians 1:20 speaks of the reconciliation brought about through "the blood of his cross."
Revelation 12:11 highlights how believers "overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony."
This message emphasizes that Jesus's blood is the ultimate source of salvation, healing, and renewal, providing believers with eternal access to God's presence. It is the foundation of our relationship with God, offering redemption and transformation.
In conclusion, the sermon invites reflection on the profound significance of the blood of Jesus, encouraging a deeper appreciation and understanding of its role in our faith and salvation journey. The blood of Jesus is not just a theological concept but a living reality that empowers and transforms our lives daily.
Study Guide: The Plan of God - The Blood
Reading
Revelation 13:8: Reflects on the eternal plan of God and the preordained sacrifice of Jesus.
Leviticus 17:11: Discusses the life-giving and atoning power of blood in the Old Testament.
Hebrews 9:22: Emphasizes the necessity of blood for the forgiveness of sins.
Matthew 26:28: Introduces the new covenant established through Jesus' blood.
John 6:53-56: Highlights the spiritual significance of partaking in Jesus' flesh and blood.
Hebrews 6:13-22: Explores God's unchangeable promise and oath.
Hebrews 7:11-27: Describes Jesus as the eternal High Priest.
Hebrews 8:1-6: Discusses the superior ministry of Jesus and the new covenant.
Hebrews 9:8-15: Details Jesus' role in the heavenly sanctuary.
Hebrews 10:12-22: Explains the complete and eternal sacrifice of Jesus.
Colossians 1:20-22: Speaks of reconciliation through Jesus' blood.
Colossians 2:14-15: Discusses the triumph over spiritual powers through the cross.
Revelation 12:11: Describes overcoming by the blood of the Lamb.
Revelation 19:11-13: Portrays Jesus as the victorious warrior with a robe dipped in blood.
Hebrews 13:20-21: A prayer for perfection and fulfillment through Jesus' blood.
Warm Up
Reflect on a time when you felt the power of Jesus' blood in your life. How did it impact you emotionally and spiritually?
What is your understanding of the role of blood in both the Old and New Testaments? How has this understanding evolved over time?
Consider any recent experiences where the theme of redemption or sacrifice has been significant for you. How did you respond?
Scripture Exploration
In Leviticus 17:11, the Bible states that "the life of the flesh is in the blood." How does this foundational truth shape the biblical understanding of sacrifice?
Hebrews 9:22 states that "without the shedding of blood there is no remission." How does this verse connect to the overarching theme of redemption in the Bible?
Pastor Michael Mehring discussed the pattern of the earthly tabernacle as a reflection of heavenly realities. How does this enhance your understanding of God's plan?
Examine Matthew 26:28 where Jesus speaks of His blood as the new covenant. What does this signify in the context of the Last Supper?
Personal Reflection
Hebrews 7:11-27 presents Jesus as the eternal High Priest. What are the implications of this for your personal faith journey?
How does the concept of Jesus' blood as a new covenant (Matthew 26:28) reshape your view of God's promises?
Reflect on John 6:53-56. How do these verses deepen your understanding of communion and its significance?
Consider the connection between Colossians 1:20-22 and the reconciliation of all things through Jesus' blood. How does this affect your view of personal and communal restoration?
Personal Application
In light of Colossians 1:20-22, how can you incorporate the message of reconciliation and peace into your daily interactions and decisions?
Revelation 12:11 speaks of overcoming by the blood of the Lamb. How can you apply this victory in areas of personal struggle or spiritual warfare?
What practical steps can you take to live out the truth that "there is nothing between you and the Father" (Colossians 1:22)? Consider actions that promote spiritual intimacy.
How can you actively encourage others in your community to embrace the freedom and victory offered through Jesus' sacrifice? Plan specific conversations or community events to share this message.
Reflect on Hebrews 13:20-21. How can you allow God to "work perfection into every part of you"? Identify areas in your life where you seek growth and transformation.
By engaging with these questions, may you deepen your understanding of the profound significance of Jesus' blood and its transformative power in your life and community. Amen.
Discussion Questions for Small Groups
Icebreaker: Share a memorable experience where you felt protected or saved in a surprising way. How did that experience shape your understanding of safety and security?
Pastor Michael Mehring emphasized the importance of Jesus' blood in God's plan from the beginning of time. Reflect on how this eternal perspective of salvation influences your understanding of God's sovereignty and foresight. How does knowing that God had a plan for redemption before sin even entered the world affect your trust in His plans for your life today?
Leviticus 17:11 states, "For the life of the flesh is in the blood." Discuss the significance of this verse in the context of the sermon. How does this understanding of the blood as a life-giving force deepen your appreciation for Jesus' sacrifice on the cross? In what ways does this knowledge influence your view of the Eucharist or communion?
Hebrews 9:12 explains that Jesus entered the heavenly sanctuary with His own blood, securing eternal redemption for us. Consider the implications of this assurance of eternal redemption on your daily life and faith journey. How does it change the way you approach challenges or uncertainties, knowing that your salvation is secure?
The sermon highlighted Jesus as our eternal High Priest. Explore what it means to you that Jesus holds this position forever and how it affects your relationship with God. How does understanding Jesus' role as a mediator enhance your prayer life and your confidence in approaching God with your needs and concerns?
Pastor Michael mentioned that Jesus' blood speaks of forgiveness, grace, and salvation. Share personal experiences where you have felt these aspects of Jesus' blood in your life. How have these experiences transformed your relationships, both with God and with others? What role does forgiveness play in your spiritual growth?
The concept of Jesus' blood being the "greatest weapon" against the enemy was discussed in the sermon. Explore how this empowers you in the spiritual battles you face. What are some practical ways you can rely on the power of Jesus' blood in moments of temptation or spiritual attack? How can this understanding bring peace and confidence in your spiritual journey?
Reflect on the call to action from the sermon: How can you incorporate the power of Jesus' blood into your prayer life or spiritual practices this week? Share ideas for personal or group initiatives that can help you and your community live out the teachings of the sermon. What steps can you take to remind yourself of the power and significance of Jesus' sacrifice daily?
Consider the broader impact of the sermon on the role of the church and believers in the community. How can the message of Jesus' sacrificial blood inspire collective actions within your congregation to serve and uplift those around you? Discuss potential outreach or service projects that align with the sermon's message and how you can contribute to these efforts.
