The Powerpoint Slides - HERE
Introduction
Pete, an electrician in London
Pete's existential question: "What is the point of life?"
How humans typically search for meaning when faced with difficulties
The many competing narratives in our culture offering answers
Introduction to a new nine-week series exploring "The Better Story" from the Bible
The Biblical Narrative of Life
The God who is life
Genesis 1: God existing before creation
God as Trinity: three persons in perfect unity
God as the source of all life
God creates life
Creation through God's word/speaking
God as architect, artist, and builder
God's delight in creation
God creates human life
Humans created to reflect God's image
The concept of blessing as life in sync with God
The command to multiply life
Imagery of dust/clay (bodies) and breath/spirit (life force)
God's personal, intimate involvement in human creation
The garden, fruit trees, and rivers as sustaining elements
Humanity chooses death
The tree of knowledge of good and evil
Sin as replacing God as author and ruler
Consequences: blessing to curse, conflict, tastes of death
Separation from God's presence
God promises to restore life
Genesis 12: Promises to Abraham
Promise of a large family (multiplication)
Promise of Eden-like land
Promise of blessing for Abraham and the world
God's people choose death
Failure to trust God despite the law and promises
Exile from the promised land
God's prophets promise new life
Ezekiel's vision of dry bones coming to life
Prophecy of a king from David's line
Vision of restored creation with rivers and trees
Jesus the life gives life
Jesus as God's Son in human form
Jesus demonstrating life-giving power through miracles
Jesus as living water and source of eternal life
Jesus the life chooses death
The paradox of the Creator suffering death
Jesus' sacrificial death for human sin
Jesus resurrected to give new life
Resurrection after three days
Holy Spirit creating new life in believers
Fulfillment of promises to Abraham
Jesus begins the new creation
Revelation 22: Vision of river of life and tree of life
No more curse, face-to-face presence with God
Hope of eternal bodies and restored creation
Application: Nine Lessons About Life
God is the author of your life
The Bible is the better story
Life is only found in a relationship with God
God made us to enjoy him while enjoying life
The life of Jesus provides our pattern for living
Community is essential to experiencing God's life
Suffering has purpose in God's life story
God's greatest desire is to multiply new life
Conclusion
Summary of God's narrative of life, death, and restoration
Challenge: "Who are the Pete's God has placed in your life?"
