Reflecting on God’s Communication from the Past to the Present
Have you ever wondered how God speaks to people? Not just in ancient stories, but right here, right now? The idea that God reaches out to humanity isn’t just a piece of history—it’s a living reality with powerful meaning for our lives today.
Understanding “In Times Past”
The Bible gives us some fascinating clues about how God spoke to people in the past. Hebrews 1:1 says, “God, who at various times and in different ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets…” In other words, before Jesus came, God would share His messages through prophets—people chosen to carry His words. These prophets spoke in different ways: sometimes through visions, sometimes dreams, and sometimes direct words. It was like getting bits and pieces of a larger puzzle, and each message pointed to something bigger coming.
Ephesians 2:2 also talks about “times past,” describing a time when people lived far from God, following their own ways. It’s a reminder that humanity once wandered in spiritual confusion, not fully understanding God’s heart or plan.
The Big Shift: From Many Messages to One Clear Voice
Everything changed with Jesus. Hebrews 1:2 goes on to say that now, God “has spoken to us by His Son.” Instead of using many different people and methods, God sent Jesus as the ultimate message—a living example of who God is and what He wants for us. Jesus didn’t just bring another piece of the puzzle; He completed it. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus revealed God’s love, forgiveness, and purpose in the clearest way possible.
This shift is huge. Before, people listened to prophets and tried to piece together what God was saying. Now, we have the privilege of knowing God’s heart directly through Jesus. We’re no longer stuck in the confusion or disobedience of “times past.” We’re invited into a new story—a story of redemption, hope, and restored relationship with God.
What This Means for Us
So, what does all this mean for you and me today? First, it means we are incredibly privileged. We’re not left guessing about who God is or what He wants. In Jesus, we see God’s love up close. We’re no longer defined by our past mistakes or distance from God. Instead, we’re offered forgiveness and a fresh start—something the people of “times past” longed for.
It also means we can hear from God now. The same God who spoke through prophets, who sent His Son to speak face-to-face, still communicates with us. He does it through the words of Jesus, through the Bible, through His Spirit nudging our hearts, and sometimes through wise people around us. God’s message isn’t trapped in history—it’s alive and meant for us today.
Gratitude and Living in the New
All of this calls for gratitude. What an amazing gift to be able to hear from God! It’s easy to take this for granted, especially when life gets busy or noisy. But pausing to appreciate God’s ongoing communication can fill us with hope, direction, and peace.
Let’s also remember to respond. Listening to God isn’t just about hearing—it’s about letting His words shape our choices, attitudes, and relationships. When we live aware of His voice, we find purpose and joy that can’t be found anywhere else.
Conclusion: The Wonder of God’s Voice
In a world full of voices and distractions, it’s incredible to know that God still speaks—and He wants us to listen. The journey from “times past” to today isn’t just a history lesson; it’s an invitation to a living relationship with our Creator. Let’s marvel at the wonder of God’s love, embrace the message of Jesus, and tune our hearts to hear His voice today. It’s a gift too precious to ignore.
Minister A Francine Green I May 2026