The term "The Great Thing" is not a direct phrase found in the Bible, but it can be understood as a concept that encapsulates the mighty works and profound truths of God as revealed in Scripture. This entry explores the various aspects of what might be considered "The Great Thing" in biblical theology, focusing on God's nature, His works, and His relationship with humanity.

God's Nature and Attributes

The greatness of God is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. In Deuteronomy 10:17, God is described as "the great God, mighty and awesome," highlighting His supreme power and majesty. The psalmist declares, "Great is the LORD and most worthy of praise; His greatness no one can fathom" (Psalm 145:3). These passages emphasize God's incomprehensible nature and His position as the ultimate authority over all creation.

Creation as a Great Work

The act of creation itself is a testament to God's greatness. Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." This foundational truth underscores God's sovereignty and His ability to bring forth life and order from nothingness. The intricacy and beauty of creation reflect His wisdom and power, as seen in Job 38-39, where God challenges Job to consider the wonders of the natural world.

The Greatness of God's Salvation

Central to the concept of "The Great Thing" is the salvation offered through Jesus Christ. John 3:16 declares, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." This act of divine love and sacrifice is the pinnacle of God's redemptive plan for humanity. The Apostle Paul writes in Romans 5:8, "But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us." The greatness of this salvation is further emphasized in Ephesians 2:8-9, where it is described as a gift of grace, not by works, so that no one can boast.

The Great Commandment and Commission

Jesus encapsulates the essence of God's law in what is often referred to as the Great Commandment. In Matthew 22:37-39, He states, "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'" This commandment summarizes the moral and ethical demands of the law, calling believers to a life of love and devotion.

Furthermore, the Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:19-20, charges believers with the task of spreading the gospel: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you." This mission reflects the expansive scope of God's kingdom and His desire for all people to know Him.

The Great Hope of the Resurrection

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is another aspect of "The Great Thing," serving as the cornerstone of Christian faith. In 1 Corinthians 15:20, Paul affirms, "But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep." The resurrection assures believers of their future hope and victory over death, as further explained in 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, where the promise of eternal life with Christ is given to those who believe.

The Greatness of God's Kingdom

Finally, the greatness of God's kingdom is a theme that runs throughout the Bible. In Daniel 2:44, it is prophesied, "In the days of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed." Jesus speaks of this kingdom in the Gospels, describing it as a treasure of immeasurable worth (Matthew 13:44-46). The book of Revelation culminates with the vision of God's eternal reign, where He will dwell with His people in a new heaven and a new earth (Revelation 21:1-3).

In summary, while "The Great Thing" is not a specific biblical term, it can be seen as a representation of the manifold greatness of God, His works, and His eternal purposes as revealed in Scripture.