Diaspora: People on the Move, God at WorkSample

Lesson 2: The First People on the Move.

Throughout history, God's people have always been on the move. It started when God created Adam and Eve, instructing them to multiply, fill the earth, and have dominion over it. Even before sin entered the world, God intended for humanity to be dynamic and spread His glory through their existence. (Genesis 1:26-28)

However, sin disrupted this plan, resulting in the exile of Adam and Eve from the Garden of Eden. Despite the weight of sin's consequences, a remarkable gift of grace emerged amidst God's judgment, shining brilliantly. Toiling on the cursed ground and enduring painful childbirth became their reality as part of humankind's punishment. Simultaneously, God disclosed a dire outcome for Satan, unveiling that an offspring of the woman would ultimately crush the serpent's head. This powerful revelation provided a glimpse into the intertwined nature of God's judgment and grace, a foreshadowing of the imminent arrival of Jesus, the ultimate embodiment of God's boundless mercy.

Yet, God didn't only address the future ramifications of Adam and Eve's sin. He also provided for their immediate needs. Ashamed of their nakedness, Adam and Eve attempted to cover themselves with leaves, but their efforts were futile. In their vulnerability, God lovingly clothed them with animal skins, shedding the blood of an innocent creature to address their immediate shame. (Genesis 3)

Today, people continue to be on the move due to their own sins, their ancestors' sins, or their oppressors' sins. However, God remains steadfast, exercising judgment while extending His grace. As Paul emphasizes in Acts 17:26-28, God determines the times and boundaries of people's dwelling places, creating opportunities for them to seek Him and find salvation. Even those who find themselves displaced and scattered can receive God's offer of redemption.

Many individuals currently on the move come from countries where Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, or Sikhism are prevalent, and they seek refuge in places where the gospel is more readily accessible. This movement presents an incredible opportunity for God's message to reach hearts longing for spiritual nourishment. Let us praise God for this remarkable opening!

Did you know that more than 350,000 Iraqi Arabs reside in North America? Take a moment and pray for God's Kingdom to come among Iraqi Arabs.

The final questions for us to consider today are: Why, Who, and What?

• Why were Adam and Eve on the move?
• Who put them on the move?
• What did God give them as a demonstration of mercy?