Topical Encyclopedia
The concept of God as the Preserver is a profound theme woven throughout the Scriptures, highlighting His role in sustaining and maintaining the created order and His people. This aspect of God's character emphasizes His ongoing involvement in the world, ensuring the continuation and stability of life and creation.
Biblical FoundationThe Bible presents God as the ultimate Preserver of life and creation. In the book of Nehemiah, we find a clear declaration of God's preserving power: "You alone are the LORD. You created the heavens, the highest heavens with all their host, the earth and all that is on it, the seas and all that is in them. You give life to all things, and the host of heaven worships You" (
Nehemiah 9:6). This passage underscores God's active role in sustaining all that He has made.
In the Psalms, the theme of God as Preserver is frequently celebrated.
Psalm 36:6 states, "Your righteousness is like the highest mountains; Your judgments are like the deepest sea. O LORD, You preserve man and beast" . Here, the psalmist acknowledges God's righteous and just nature, which extends to His preservation of both humanity and the animal kingdom.
God's Preservation of His PeopleGod's preservation is not limited to the physical world; it extends to His covenant people. In
Psalm 121, a song of ascents, the psalmist expresses confidence in God's protective care: "The LORD will guard you from all evil; He will preserve your soul. The LORD will watch over your coming and going, both now and forevermore" (
Psalm 121:7-8). This assurance of divine protection and preservation is a source of comfort and hope for believers.
The prophet Isaiah also speaks of God's preserving power in relation to His people: "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand" (
Isaiah 41:10). This promise highlights God's commitment to sustaining and upholding His people through all circumstances.
Preservation Through ChristIn the New Testament, the theme of preservation is further developed through the person and work of Jesus Christ.
Colossians 1:17 affirms Christ's role in sustaining creation: "He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together" . This verse reveals that Christ is not only the agent of creation but also its sustainer, ensuring the coherence and continuity of the universe.
Moreover, the preservation of believers is assured through Christ's redemptive work. In
Jude 1:24, the doxology praises God for His ability to preserve the faithful: "Now to Him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of His glory with great joy" . This promise of spiritual preservation underscores the security and assurance found in a relationship with Christ.
ConclusionThe biblical portrayal of God as the Preserver is a testament to His sovereign power and loving care. From the sustaining of the natural world to the protection and spiritual preservation of His people, God's role as Preserver is a source of profound assurance and hope for believers throughout the ages.
Nave's Topical Index
2 Chronicles 13:4-18And Abijah stood up on mount Zemaraim, which is in mount Ephraim, and said, Hear me, you Jeroboam, and all Israel;
Nave's Topical Index
Library
The Kingdom Op Judah.
... In 955 Abijah came to the throne instead of Rehoboam ... wicked wife Athaliah, than to
obey the commands of God. ... even slew the son of his preserver, Jehoiada, for ...
//christianbookshelf.org/yonge/the chosen people/lesson vii the kingdom op.htm
Tiglath-Pileser iii. And the Organisation of the Assyrian Empire ...
... Jahveh ceased to be merely the god of a nation"He became the God of the ... find a reference
to the commentary of the prophet Iddo in the time of Abijah (2 Ghron ...
/.../chapter iitiglath-pileser iii and the.htm
Resources
Questions about God (All) | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” sermon? | GotQuestions.orgIs God a moral monster? | GotQuestions.orgGod: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus