Unit D

God and His Own People

Sections

The Bible reveals a lot about how God relates to his own people – those who seek to follow him. The following includes teaching on key issues in God’s relationship with each of his people, including what he does for them. Some of the verses in this topic are among the best-loved verses in the Bible.

Keys to God’s Interaction

I.Keys to God’s Interaction

God is always with his people

[God:]  I will be with you as I was with Moses. I will always be with you; I will never abandon you.   Joshua 1:5b GNT

God knows his people

[God, to Moses:]  I know you by name.   Exodus 33:17b ISV

God loves his people and is faithful to them

His love for us is strong and his faithfulness is eternal. Praise the Lord!   Psalms 117:2 GNT

God’s Holy Spirit lives in and helps his people

[Paul, speaking to Timothy about the gospel message:]  You have been trusted with a wonderful treasure. Guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit, who lives within you.   2 Timothy 1:14 CEV

God’s Transformation of His People

II.God’s Transformation of His People

God’s people are given spiritual life

[Jesus:]  The Spirit is the one who gives life; human nature is of no help! The words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life.   John 6:63 NET

God’s people are being changed to be like Jesus Christ

They show the bright glory of the Lord, as the Lord’s Spirit makes us more and more like our glorious Lord.   2 Corinthians 3:18b CEV

God fills his people with joy and peace

May God, the source of hope, fill you with all joy and peace by means of your faith in him …   Romans 15:13a GNT

God’s Care of His People

III.God’s Care of His People

God cares for his people

Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you.   1 Peter 5:6 GNT

God helps his people in times of trouble

God is our shelter and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.   Psalms 46:1 GNT

God provides for all their needs

[Paul, to believers who had supported him:]  And my God will fully supply your every need according to his glorious riches in the Messiah Jesus.   Philippians 4:19 ISV

God’s Plans for His People

IV.God’s Plans for His People

God’s plans include things for his people to do

God has made us what we are, and in our union with Christ Jesus he has created us for a life of good deeds, which he has already prepared for us to do.   Ephesians 2:10 GNT

In spite of their troubles, God will fulfill his plans for them

[David, to God:]  When I am surrounded by troubles, you keep me safe. You oppose my angry enemies and save me by your power. 8You will do everything you have promised …   Psalms 138:7-8a GNT