Theology Thursday - February 13th

Lesson Abstract

This study on the Doctrine of Theology Proper explores the foundational truths about God’s preeminence, existence, and essence as revealed in Scripture. By examining key biblical passages and theological insights from scholars like James Pendleton and J.I. Packer, we will understand how God is uniquely established as the one true and living God. This lesson will also highlight humanity's innate longing to know God and the various ways this longing has been misdirected throughout history.

Introduction: Martin Luther and Soli Deo Gloria (God Alone)

Martin Luther, the great Reformer, passionately defended the truth that salvation and worship belong to God alone—Soli Deo Gloria. His life’s work emphasized that all of creation exists for the glory of God, and nothing else should compete for His supreme position. Luther boldly declared, “A god is that to which we look for all good and in which we find refuge in every time of need.” This understanding highlights why the doctrine of Theology Proper is vital: to know God rightly is to worship Him rightly. Humanity has always longed for the divine, often turning to false gods, but Scripture points us back to the one true and living God who is sovereign over all.

I. Introduction

a) The Veracity of God's Preeminence God’s preeminence means He is supreme above all creation—eternal, self-existent, and sovereign. Colossians 1:18 declares, “that in all things he might have the preeminence.” God is not merely first among equals; He is unrivaled in His majesty and authority.

b) The Reality of One True and Living God Deuteronomy 6:4 affirms, “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD.” This foundational truth sets biblical faith apart from polytheistic religions, emphasizing monotheism—there is only one God, living and active, who reveals Himself through Scripture.

c) Man’s Longing to Know God Ecclesiastes 3:11 says God has “set eternity in their heart.” Throughout history, humanity’s innate desire to connect with the divine has led to the creation of false gods and idols. This longing is a distorted reflection of humanity’s original relationship with the true God.

d) Examples of Gods Worshipped by Pagan Nations

Baal - worshipped by the Canaanites as a storm and fertility god (1 Kings 18).

Dagon - the Philistine god associated with agriculture and fish (1 Samuel 5:2-4).

Molech - an Ammonite god requiring child sacrifices (Leviticus 18:21). These false gods demonstrate humanity’s attempts to fill the void that only the true God can satisfy.

e) Various Theistic Thoughts

Henotheism

Polytheism

Pantheism

II. The Establishment of God

a) Definition of the Establishment of God The establishment of God refers to how God reveals Himself as the foundation of all existence, authority, and truth. Psalm 90:2 states, “Before the mountains were brought forth… even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.” God’s existence is not contingent upon creation; He is self-existent and eternal.

b) Quotes from Scholars

James Pendleton: “The existence of God is a first truth, needing no proof but self-evident in creation and conscience.”

J.I. Packer: “God’s identity is not an inference but a revelation; He establishes Himself by speaking through His Word.”

John Calvin: “The knowledge of God has been naturally implanted in the minds of men.”

c) Five Scriptures from the KJV

Genesis 1:1 – “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.”

Psalm 19:1 – “The heavens declare the glory of God.”

Isaiah 45:5 – “I am the LORD, and there is none else, there is no God beside me.”

Romans 1:20 – “For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen.”

Hebrews 11:6 – “For he that cometh to God must believe that he is.”

III. The Existence of God in the Scriptures

a) Definition of the Existence of God The existence of God refers to the reality that God is, was, and always will be. His existence is not theoretical but absolute, independent of human belief. Exodus 3:14 declares, “I AM THAT I AM,” signifying His eternal, self-sufficient nature.

b) Quotes from Scholars

Francis Schaeffer: “God is there, and He is not silent.”

Wayne Grudem: “God exists necessarily and eternally; His existence is the most basic reality.”

A.W. Tozer: “The reality of God’s existence is the bedrock upon which all truth stands.”

c) Five Scriptures from the KJV

Exodus 3:14 – “I AM THAT I AM.”

Psalm 14:1 – “The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God.”

John 1:1 – “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.”

Acts 17:28 – “For in him we live, and move, and have our being.”

Revelation 1:8 – “I am Alpha and Omega… saith the Lord.”

IV. The Essence of God

a) Definition of the Essence of God The essence of God refers to His intrinsic nature—what makes God, God. This includes His attributes such as holiness, love, omnipotence, omniscience, and immutability. John 4:24 declares, “God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.”

b) Quotes from Scholars

James Pendleton: “The essence of God is pure spirit, eternal, unchangeable, and self-existent.”

J.I. Packer: “God’s essence is revealed in His attributes—His holiness, justice, love, and truth are not parts of Him but who He is.”

Stephen Charnock: “The being of God is His essence; His essence is His being. He is a most simple being, without composition or division.”

c) Five Scriptures from the KJV

John 4:24 – “God is a Spirit.”

1 John 4:8 – “God is love.”

Exodus 34:6 – “The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth.”

Deuteronomy 32:4 – “He is the Rock, his work is perfect.”

Malachi 3:6 – “For I am the LORD, I change not.”

Discussion Questions

How does understanding God’s preeminence shape the way we worship and live?

In what ways do people today create "false gods" similar to pagan nations in the Bible?

How does Scripture establish the reality of God’s existence without needing to "prove" it?

Why is it important to understand the essence of God when studying His attributes?

How can the doctrine of Theology Proper deepen our relationship with God?

Recommended Textbooks from Lifeway for Further Study

"Christian Doctrine" by James Madison Pendleton

"Knowing God" by J.I. Packer

"Systematic Theology" by Wayne Grudem

"The Knowledge of the Holy" by A.W. Tozer

"Foundations of the Christian Faith" by James Montgomery Boice