The Plan of the Ages
From the moment of creation, God has had a plan for mankind. This plan is described as a "mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the saints" (Col.1:26).
1 Corinthians 10:11
God hid this plan of His in the Old Testament, revealing it in patterns, types and "shadows" - in the Law (Heb.10:1), in the Sabbath (Col. 2:16-17; Heb. 4:1-10), in the pattern of the Tabernacle (Heb. 8:5; 9:24), in the Feasts of Israel (1 Cor. 5:7). These "shadows" reveal the outline of God's plan - the "mystery of God" (Ephesians 3:4-9) that is even now unfolding.
Three Witnesses
1 John 5:6-8
2 Peter 3:8
THE FATHER
The Witness of Water
The Flood in the days of Noah (Gen.7:1-24).
Speaks of "baptism" of whole world (1 Peter 3:20).
Speaks of the end of all flesh (Gen.6:13).
The witness of a believer's baptism in water (1 Peter 3:21).
THE SON
The Witness of Blood
Began with a son, Isaac, and ended with the Son.
Began with the offering of Isaac and ended with the ultimate sacrifice of Christ.
Characterised by blood sacrifices, ending at the Cross (Heb.7:27; 10:11-14; John 19:30).
THE SPIRIT
The Witness of Spirit
Began at the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4).
This is the age of the witness of the Spirit (John 15:26; 16:14; Acts 5:32).
Begins with an outpouring of God's Spirit, and ends with an outpouring of the Spirit (Acts 2:17).
Read also:
Psalm 90:4
Ex.20:11
Gen.1:14
Rev.12:1