Theology of the Church, Mentor's Guide, MG03

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T H E O L O G Y O F T H E C H U R C H

Thus, God is not just saving individuals and preparing them for heaven; rather, he is creating a people for his name, among whom God can dwell and who in their life together will reproduce God’s life and character. This view of salvation is thoroughgoing in Paul.

~ Gordon D. Fee. God’s Empowering Presence . Peabody: Hendrickson, 1994. p. 872.

D. The Old Testament Scriptures laid the foundation for us to understand that salvation is being joined to the people of God.

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1. Salvation from Egypt (the Exodus):

Perhaps the very best image of salvation in the Bible is the story of the Exodus in which the children of Israel are freed from slavery in Egypt. From very early times in Church history, the story of the Exodus was understood to be a story which explained the Christian understanding of salvation. Notice how the Exodus story paints a picture of what it means to be saved.

a. A slave people living in misery without hope (Israelites in Egypt)

b. Are called out by God’s gracious choice through a champion he sends (Moses)

c. Are saved from God’s wrath through the application of the blood (Passover lamb)

d. Are liberated from an evil tyrant through God’s mighty power (defeat of Pharaoh and his armies).

e. Are delivered by passing through water (Red Sea)

f. Are formed into a holy nation (Israel) who obey God’s will (Law)

g. Are given the responsibility of being a witness to the nations (Exod. 19.5-6)