Connect Romans 11:36 with Colossians 1:16 on God's role in creation. From Him: The Source of All Things • Romans 11:36 opens, “For from Him… are all things.” • Colossians 1:16 echoes, “For in Him all things were created….” • Genesis 1:1 confirms the starting point: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” • Every category—“things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible” (Colossians 1:16)—flows out of God’s creative word. • No part of creation is self-existent; all exists because God willed it into being. Through Him: The Sustainer of All Things • Romans 11:36 continues, “…and through Him….” • Colossians 1:17 clarifies, “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” • Hebrews 1:3 adds, “He upholds all things by His powerful word.” • Creation is not a clock wound up and left alone; at every moment, God’s power keeps atoms, galaxies, and our own hearts beating. • Because God continually sustains, creation is dependable—day follows night (Genesis 8:22), seasons arrive on schedule, and salvation’s promises stand firm. To Him: The Goal of All Things • Romans 11:36 concludes, “…and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever!” • Colossians 1:16 ends, “…all things were created through Him and for Him.” • Revelation 4:11 celebrates this purpose: “Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things….” • History, nature, redemption, and every personal storyline are ultimately aimed at God’s glory. • “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof” (Psalm 24:1), so every part of life is an arena for honoring Him. Christ at the Center of Creation • Colossians emphasizes Christ’s active role: “in Him,” “through Him,” “for Him.” • John 1:3 confirms, “All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that has been made.” • The same Lord who spoke worlds into existence took on flesh (John 1:14), linking creation and redemption. • Because Christ is Creator, His cross and resurrection carry cosmic authority—He redeems what He originally made. Implications for Worship and Living • Awe: Recognizing God as source, sustainer, and goal fosters reverent wonder rather than casual familiarity. • Gratitude: Every breath is a present-tense gift “through Him.” Thankfulness becomes a daily habit. • Purpose: Life gains focus—we exist “for Him,” so goals, careers, and relationships find meaning in serving His glory. • Stewardship: The creation He made and maintains is to be cared for wisely (Genesis 2:15), not exploited. • Confidence: If God upholds galaxies, He can uphold us (Matthew 6:25-34), turning theology into steady trust. |
    |