The promises of God given in each dispensation reveal the specific content of salvation for those living within that time.
The Fall and the Promise
God declared that the seed of the woman would crush the head of Satan (Genesis 3:14–15). Eve responded in faith to this promise, as indicated in her statement at the birth of Cain (Genesis 4:1). This promise implied a restoration to the condition that existed in the Garden before the Fall.
The Conscience and Seeking God
During the dispensation of conscience, Abel offered to God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, demonstrating righteousness through faith (Hebrews 11:4). Enoch is noted as one who walked with God, reflecting an ongoing relationship with the Creator (Genesis 5:22–24). God promised that if individuals diligently sought Him, they would indeed find Him (Hebrews 11:6). Noah, by faith, built an ark and saved his household, thereby becoming an heir of the righteousness that is according to faith (Hebrews 11:7). God also prepared a city for these faithful ones, revealing a future hope (Hebrews 11:16).
Abraham and His Seed
God promised Abraham a seed, and Abraham believed, which was counted to him as righteousness (Genesis 15:6). God further promised that Abraham’s seed would inherit land on this earth (Genesis 15:18–21), and made an everlasting covenant guaranteeing this inheritance for eternity (Genesis 17:7–8). Abraham looked forward to a city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God, indicating his anticipation of eternal promises (Hebrews 11:8–10). By faith, Sarah received strength to conceive and bore a child, despite her old age (Genesis 17:15–17; 18:10, 14; Hebrews 11:11–12).
Israel
To the nation of Israel, God promised land on this earth (Genesis 15:18–21) and, through the eternal covenant, also guaranteed this land for eternity (Genesis 17:7–8). The Lord assured them that those who seek Him will indeed find Him (Deuteronomy 4:29). The resurrection will bring different levels of glorification, as described in Daniel 12:3. Eternal life was also promised through resurrection, as affirmed by Martha’s statement and Jesus’ response (John 11:24). Additionally, Israel was promised a coming King who would take away their sins (2 Samuel 7:12–13; Isaiah 9:6; 59:20–21; Romans 11:26–27).
The Church of God (Grace Believers)
For those in the Church, the Holy Spirit is given as an earnest of their salvation, signifying a distinct change in the relationship between God and man (Ephesians 1:13; John 14:17). They are promised a heavenly home (John 14:2; Philippians 3:20). At the resurrection, they will be like Christ and shine brighter than the noonday sun (1 John 3:2). Believers in this dispensation presently possess eternal life (1 John 5:12) and have been granted all things pertaining to life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3–4).
The Millennial Kingdom
During the Millennial Kingdom, Israel will be brought under a new covenant in which God's law will be written on their hearts (Jeremiah 31:33–34). In this time, the righteous will shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father (Matthew 13:43).
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