What does "slain from the foundation of the world" reveal about God's plan? The phrase in context Revelation 13:8: “And all who dwell on the earth will worship the beast—all whose names have not been written from the foundation of the world in the Book of Life belonging to the Lamb who was slain.” The wording connects either the writing of names or the Lamb’s death with “the foundation of the world.” 1 Peter 1:20 settles the matter: “He was known before the foundation of the world, but was revealed in the last times for your sake.” Christ’s sacrifice was settled in God’s mind before time began. From before time—God’s definitive plan • God’s redemptive strategy predates creation; nothing took Him by surprise. • Acts 2:23: “This Man was handed over by God’s set plan and foreknowledge.” • Ephesians 1:4: “He chose us in Him before the foundation of the world.” • 2 Timothy 1:9: grace “was given us in Christ Jesus before time began.” • The cross is not Plan B; it is the centerpiece of Plan A. Old Testament echoes that anticipate the Lamb • Genesis 3:15 – the promised Seed who would crush the serpent, yet be wounded. • Genesis 4 – Abel’s accepted lamb offering highlights atoning blood. • Genesis 22 – Abraham’s prophetic words: “God Himself will provide the lamb.” • Exodus 12 – Passover lamb blood saves from judgment. • Leviticus sacrifices – continual reminder that “without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness” (Hebrews 9:22). • Isaiah 53 – the Suffering Servant “pierced for our transgressions.” New Testament confirmations • John 1:29 – John points to Jesus: “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” • Revelation 5:6 – John sees “a Lamb standing, as though it had been slain,” worshiped in heaven. • 1 Peter 1:18-19 – redeemed “with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or spot.” • Hebrews 10:10 – “We have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” The cross at the center of the cosmos • Creation itself was designed around Christ’s atoning work; history moves toward the revelation of the Lamb. • Colossians 1:16-20 ties all creation and reconciliation to Him. • Every promise, prophecy, and covenant converges at Calvary, proving divine intent from eternity. The Book of Life and personal assurance • Revelation 17:8 also speaks of names “written in the book of life from the foundation of the world.” • Luke 10:20 – believers rejoice that their names are written in heaven. • The same eternal plan that ordained the Lamb’s death secures the believer’s destiny; salvation rests on God’s unchangeable purpose, not human merit. Living in the light of an eternal plan • Confidence – the gospel is anchored in God’s timeless counsel, guaranteeing its success. • Worship – recognizing the Lamb’s timeless sacrifice produces heartfelt praise (Revelation 5:9-14). • Mission – because God planned redemption before the foundation, proclaiming the Lamb’s victory aligns us with His eternal will. |
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