First and Last

INTRODUCTION: Verse Exposition.
v1. "Thus"—a summation of creation (1:1-31); "finished" ended (v2), accomplished, completed, fulfilled.
v2. "God sabbath'd on the seventh day."
v3. Ceased, rested, sabbath'd from creating the heavens & earth from nothing. The day blessed by His presence in God's observing His work (1:31) & taking pleasure in it (it was very good).

Sabbath was a conclusion; yet, was in the beginning.

I. PRIMITIVE BEGINNINGS: The Beginning of:

1. The creation of all things (ch.1)
2. Humanity (ch.1, 2)
3. Satan's sin, rebellion & deception (ch.3)
4. Man's fall in sin & its consequences (ch.3, 4)
5. Judgment upon wickedness (ch.6-9)
6. Nations & languages (ch.10, 11)

II. PROFOUND BEGINNINGS: The Beginning of the Revelation of:

1. The Sovereign, Triune God (1:1)
2. Unconditional Election (1:1)
3. Total Depravity (3:8)
4. Irresistible Grace (3:9-10)
5. Messianic Promise (3:15)
6. Sacrificial Atonement (3:21)
7. Limited Atonement (ch.6-9)
8. Imputed Righteousness (ch.15)
9. Sacrificial Substitution (ch.22)
10. Perseverance of Saints (ch.37-50)
    a. Providence of God (ch.37-50)
    b. Forgiveness (ch.50)

III. PROFOUND CONCLUSIONS: 1 John 1:1-4; 1 John 2:20-21

1. Sovereign Grace –faith
2. Sufficient Grace –hope
3. Sanctified Grace –love
4. Secure Grace –Soli Deo Gloria