God declares, “My house is a house of prayer for all nations.” (Isaiah 56:7, NIV)
When mankind lives in close proximity, they have the same language with “a common speech” (Genesis 11:1) They work together to build a tower to reach heaven so as “to make a name for [themselves].” (Genesis 11:4) With a common language, the evil of which mankind is capable is unlimited. God is not pleased, and confounds their plans by “confusing their language so they do not understand each other.” Then He “scatters them from there all over the earth.” (Genesis 11:7,8)
First, a common language, dialect and even culture. Then, many languages. Finally, many dialects and cultures resulting in a world divided.
Yet, God has another plan. He plans to bring all nations together again under one head, that is Christ Jesus.
Jesus Himself says, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I Am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20)
Heavenly Father, thank You that You love all cultures — that You created all languages and dialects; that You speak in all tongues so that anyone may understand Your Word. Help us to take the gospel message to every people everywhere. In Jesus’ Name, amen.
