El Olam

Introduction

Prayer

We continue with our “Names of God” study with today’s Name: "El Olam" which means Everlasting God

What does that mean: God is eternal (we’ll get to this in Point (C. Theological Implications)

The focus of this study:

The historical background of this descriptive name of God

It’s significance in Old Testament

How this name fits into the overall scheme of the gospel.

I. Historical Background (15 minutes):

A. The Meaning and Origin of "El Olam"

"El Olam" is a Hebrew term that translates to "The Everlasting God" or "The God of Eternity."

B. Scriptural References

Genesis 21:33 - The first occurrence of "El Olam" when Abraham planted a tamarisk tree.

Isaiah 40:28 - "Have you not known? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth."

Psalm 90:2 - "Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God."

C. Theological Implications

How does "El Olam" highlight God's eternal nature (meaning He exists outside the constraints of time and space)?

How does God’s eternal nature underscore His faithfulness and unchanging character throughout history?

II. Significance in Old Testament History (15 minutes):

Now, let’s look at moments how this theological concept (the attributes of God’s eternal nature… keeping his promises, his covenants) plays out in biblical history.

A. Covenant with Abraham

Explain how "El Olam" was invoked during the covenant ceremony between God and Abraham (Genesis 17:1-8).

Discuss the promise of land, descendants, and the everlasting covenant, showing how God's eternal nature plays a pivotal role.

B. Deliverance from Egypt

The Israelites, while in captivity, were reminded of God's eternal nature and promises (Exodus 3:13-18).

How does God's everlasting nature (to still be alive generations later and who makes/keeps His promises) gave hope and reassurance to the Israelites during their oppression?

C. Prophetic Promises

Explore Old Testament prophecies that point to the coming Messiah, who would embody the eternal nature of God (Isaiah 9:6-7; Micah 5:2).

Connect these prophecies to the fulfillment in Jesus Christ.

III. El Olam in the Overall Scheme of the Gospel (10 minutes):

A. The Incarnation of Christ

Scripture shows that Jesus, as the Son of God, demonstrated the eternal nature of God in His earthly ministry.

John 1:1-14 to show how the Word became flesh, emphasizing the eternal nature of the Word. Jn 8:58

Phil 2:5-8 shows him coming as God, made into the likeness of man.

B. Redemption and Eternal Life

Jesus' sacrifice on the cross, offering the promise of eternal life to all who believe (John 3:16) on him.

Through Christ, believers can experience a personal relationship with "El Olam."

Conclusion (5 minutes):

God is eternal: and so is His unfailing character.

Keep praying to our eternal God and rest in His character to fulfill His promises to you…despite the season you (or your community, or the whole of His church) is in a season of trials.

Prayer: "El Olam," the Everlasting God, and for the hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ....