
Salem Baptist Church
Salem Baptist Church
Last month we began our series called Our Great Salvation by looking at why we need to be saved. We discovered that the greatest problem facing humanity is not something happening around us—it is the problem of sin within us.
The Bible tells us that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. But we also discovered the wonderful truth that God did not leave us without hope. Through Jesus Christ, He provided the way of salvation. We are saved by grace through faith, not because of our works, but because of His amazing grace.
Today, I want us to look at a truth that should fill every believer's heart with wonder:
Our salvation was planned before time began.
It was not God's emergency plan.
It was not a reaction to man's failure.
Before there was a world, before there was a human race, before you and I ever took our first breath, God already had a plan to redeem sinners through His Son, Jesus Christ.
Listen to the words of Ephesians 1:3–4:
"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world..."
The Apostle Paul begins this passage by worshiping God. Why?
Because salvation begins with God.
Paul doesn't begin by talking about what we have done for God. He begins by talking about what God has done for us.
The phrase "before the foundation of the world" reminds us that God's plan of salvation reaches back into eternity past.
Before creation itself, God knew that mankind would fall into sin. He knew humanity would need redemption. And in His perfect wisdom and love, He purposed to provide salvation through Jesus Christ.
The Bible says in Revelation 13:8 that Christ is described as "the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world."
The cross was not an accident. Jesus was not a victim of circumstances. The death of Christ was God's eternal plan to rescue sinners.
Think about that for a moment.
God knew everything about you before you were ever born.
He knew every mistake you would make. He knew every sin you would commit. He knew every struggle you would face.
And yet, He still loved you and made a way for you to be reconciled to Him through Jesus Christ.
That is amazing grace.
Now, when we talk about God's plan of salvation, we need to understand that salvation is not based on human achievement. It is based on God's purpose and God's grace.
Ephesians 1:7 says: "In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace."
Notice the phrase "according to the riches of his grace."
God did not save us because we were worthy. He saved us because He is gracious.
He did not look down through history and find people who were good enough to save.
Romans 5:8 tells us: "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."
God's love was demonstrated when we were at our worst—not when we had earned His favor.
The amazing truth of salvation is that God not only planned to save us, but He also planned what He would make us.
Ephesians 1:4 says that we were chosen in Christ "that we should be holy and without blame before him in love."
God's purpose is not simply to rescue us from hell. His purpose is to transform us into the image of His Son.
He saves us from sin, but He also saves us for a new life of holiness, obedience, and fellowship with Him.
Perhaps today you are wondering, "Can God really forgive someone like me?" The answer is yes.
The same God who planned salvation before the foundation of the world is the God who invites you to come to Him through Jesus Christ today.
You don't have to clean yourself up first. You don't have to become good enough before coming to God. You come to Christ by faith, and He begins His transforming work in your life.
And for those who already know Jesus, this truth gives us great confidence.
Your salvation did not begin with you. It began with God.
Your salvation does not depend on your ability to hold onto God. It depends on God's ability to hold onto you.
What a wonderful reason to worship Him!
Next month, Lord willing, we will look at the heart of our salvation—the cross that changed everything. We will discover what Jesus accomplished when He willingly gave His life for us.
Until then, keep your eyes on Jesus, stay rooted in His Word, Stay connected with believers who love Jesus, and hold tight to His promises – He is always faithful and remember:
When our faith is in focus, we see life through the unchanging truth of God's Word.
If you have never received the Lord Jesus into your life and never had your sins forgiven, will you trust Him today? Contact me if you want to talk more about this at pastorprbedford@gmail.com
Have you made a decision for Christ because of what you have read here? If so, please contact me so I can pray for you and help you in your new lifes journey.