Vibrant Hope: The Nature of our Existence in God

Friday 2024/12/06

Acts 17:28 (NIV) “For in him we live and move and have our being; as some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’”

Acts 17:28 expresses the idea that our very existence is rooted in God. The verse suggests that all aspects of life — our movements, actions, and essence — are sustained by God. It also emphasizes our identity as God’s creation, indicating a close relationship between humanity and the divine. The reference to “your own poets” highlights that this truth is recognized even outside of scripture, suggesting a universal understanding of humanity’s dependence on a higher power.

How do we see Man and Christ/God in this Scripture?

In this scripture, we see humanity (man) depicted as being inherently connected to God (Christ). The phrase “in him we live and move and have our being” underscores the belief that our physical and spiritual existence is contingent upon God. This reflects the idea that Christ is central to our identity and purpose. As God’s offspring, we are called to recognize our relationship with Him and live in a way that honours that connection.

Related Scriptures

Colossians 1:16–17 (NIV): “For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.”

John 15:5 (NIV): “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

Genesis 1:27 (NIV): “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”

Application

As Christians today, we can apply Acts 17:28 by recognizing that our lives are sustained by God. This understanding should lead us to:

• Live intentionally, acknowledging God’s presence in every aspect of our lives.
• Cultivate a relationship with God through prayer, worship, and studying His word.
• Embrace our identity as children of God, which encourages us to reflect His love and character in our interactions with others.
• Foster a sense of community with fellow believers, understanding that we are all part of God’s creation.

Prayer Points

• Thanksgiving for Existence: “Thank You, Lord, for the gift of life and for sustaining me in every moment.”
• Seeking Connection: “Help me to remain connected to You, Lord, so that I may bear fruit in my life.”
• Identity in Christ: “Remind me daily that I am Your child and help me to live out my identity as Your offspring.”
• Dependence on God: “Teach me to rely on You for strength and guidance in all my endeavours.”
• Unity with Others: “Help me to recognize my fellow believers as part of Your creation and foster unity within the body of Christ.”

By Pastor AK Mannah