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The Existence and Attributes of God - Part 1
The Existence and Attributes of God - Part 1
Introduction:
Introduction:
In the midst of life’s challenges, pain, and frustration - where do you go for comfort? Christians are those who can confidently and happily turn to God, not just because he exists, but because of what he is like.
In the midst of life’s challenges, pain, and frustration - where do you go for comfort? Christians are those who can confidently and happily turn to God, not just because he exists, but because of what he is like.
I. Introduction
I. Introduction
Let us note what marks God out from among all the other false gods is that he speaks.
Let us note what marks God out from among all the other false gods is that he speaks.
He has graciously revealed himself through the written word - the Bible, and the word made flesh - Jesus Christ.
He has graciously revealed himself through the written word - the Bible, and the word made flesh - Jesus Christ.
And this revelation is true (inerrant), trustworthy (infallible), sufficient and necessary.
And this revelation is true (inerrant), trustworthy (infallible), sufficient and necessary.
It does not, it cannot lead us astray. It is our final authority, the final arbiter in all matters of faith and practice - not the church, or reason, or our subjective impressions or experiences.
It does not, it cannot lead us astray. It is our final authority, the final arbiter in all matters of faith and practice - not the church, or reason, or our subjective impressions or experiences.
As we begin this message , there are two questions that lie at the foundation of not only of religious knowledge, but also of every possible form of knowledge:
As we begin this message , there are two questions that lie at the foundation of not only of religious knowledge, but also of every possible form of knowledge:
1) Is there a God? (Related to this, how can we know?)
1) Is there a God? (Related to this, how can we know?)
2) What is God like? (What are his attributes?)
2) What is God like? (What are his attributes?)
These are the questions that we will begin to answer during our time together today.
These are the questions that we will begin to answer during our time together today.
II. God’s Existence
II. God’s Existence
A. Biblical Presupposition
A. Biblical Presupposition
[Job 11:7; 26:14; 30:26; Is 40:18]
[Job 11:7; 26:14; 30:26; Is 40:18]
7 Canst thou by searching find out God? Canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection?
14 Lo, these are parts of his ways: But how little a portion is heard of him? But the thunder of his power who can understand?
26 When I looked for good, then evil came unto me: And when I waited for light, there came darkness.
18 To whom then will ye liken God? Or what likeness will ye compare unto him?
We begin this morning by thinking about the existence of God.
We begin this morning by thinking about the existence of God.
In response to our first question, “Is there a God?” we must note at the outset that the Bible doesn’t spend time arguing for God’s existence.
In response to our first question, “Is there a God?” we must note at the outset that the Bible doesn’t spend time arguing for God’s existence.
It simply presumes that He does. It’s a biblical given, in the same way the pre-existence of matter is a given for the materialist.
It simply presumes that He does. It’s a biblical given, in the same way the pre-existence of matter is a given for the materialist.
The Bible treats God’s existence like gravity. We can deny it, ignore it, or pretend it doesn't exist, but to our own peril.
The Bible treats God’s existence like gravity. We can deny it, ignore it, or pretend it doesn't exist, but to our own peril.
Every worldview begins somewhere.
Every worldview begins somewhere.
The Christian worldview begins with these two premises -
The Christian worldview begins with these two premises -
He is There (existence)
He is There (existence)
And He Is Not Silent (speaks).
And He Is Not Silent (speaks).
But if someone were to ask you how you know God exists, what would you say?
But if someone were to ask you how you know God exists, what would you say?
If we are Christians, we can say that we believe God is “really there” because He has revealed himself:
If we are Christians, we can say that we believe God is “really there” because He has revealed himself:
1.) generally to all men by creation and providence;
1.) generally to all men by creation and providence;
2.) propositionally in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments;
2.) propositionally in the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments;
3.) personally in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ; and
3.) personally in His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ; and
4.) savingly through the work of His Word and Spirit. (repeat)
4.) savingly through the work of His Word and Spirit. (repeat)
Scripture testifies to this:
Scripture testifies to this:
(John 17:3,
(John 17:3,
3 And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.
(1 John 5:20, )
(1 John 5:20, )
20 And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.
So in the first chapter of Romans, Paul tells us that God has made the fact of his existence plain to all humanity (Romans 1:19 ) Creation cries out that there is a creator.
So in the first chapter of Romans, Paul tells us that God has made the fact of his existence plain to all humanity (Romans 1:19 ) Creation cries out that there is a creator.
19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.
Who is it that sends the rain and sun?
Who is it that sends the rain and sun?
Who is it that blankets the earth in darkness, and then unleashes the morning sun?
Who is it that blankets the earth in darkness, and then unleashes the morning sun?
Who is it that separates the land from the sea?
Who is it that separates the land from the sea?
From the order of the seasons to the intricacies of a flower to the innumerable stars at night - we see God’s hand as the intelligent Creator.
From the order of the seasons to the intricacies of a flower to the innumerable stars at night - we see God’s hand as the intelligent Creator.
If anyone has seen Planet Earth
If anyone has seen Planet Earth
In a visually arresting and stunning way, that production powerfully captures the grandeur, majesty, wonderful diversity and remarkable complexity of God’s creation.
In a visually arresting and stunning way, that production powerfully captures the grandeur, majesty, wonderful diversity and remarkable complexity of God’s creation.
Yet the producers say nothing about God. Why?
Yet the producers say nothing about God. Why?
Because despite this revelation in creation, Paul goes on to say in Romans that man willfully suppresses the truth and exchanges it for a lie. And so fallen man worships the natural world instead of the one that made it.
Because despite this revelation in creation, Paul goes on to say in Romans that man willfully suppresses the truth and exchanges it for a lie. And so fallen man worships the natural world instead of the one that made it.
But there’s not just creation.
But there’s not just creation.
There is also conscience.
There is also conscience.
Because we are made in God’s image (Gen 1.26-27), something of his moral character remains in us.
Because we are made in God’s image (Gen 1.26-27), something of his moral character remains in us.
26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth.
27 So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
Though our consciences aren’t a perfect guide because they’ve been corrupted by the fall, our concerns for morality, justice, knowledge, truth - they too point us back to our creator.
Though our consciences aren’t a perfect guide because they’ve been corrupted by the fall, our concerns for morality, justice, knowledge, truth - they too point us back to our creator.
B. THEISTIC PROOFS
B. THEISTIC PROOFS
While creation and conscience ought to be reason alone to convince us that God exists, the fact that we suppress the truth in our fallen state has led Christians to formulate “theistic proofs” (arguments) for the existence of God.
While creation and conscience ought to be reason alone to convince us that God exists, the fact that we suppress the truth in our fallen state has led Christians to formulate “theistic proofs” (arguments) for the existence of God.
These “proofs” are simply attempts to demonstrate that it’s rational to believe in God’s existence.
These “proofs” are simply attempts to demonstrate that it’s rational to believe in God’s existence.
God’s not our imaginary friend, and thus relegated to the realm of myth and superstition.
God’s not our imaginary friend, and thus relegated to the realm of myth and superstition.
I mention these proofs because they often are included in systematic theology, but since they are also covered in the Apologetics , I will leave you with just a mention of them.
I mention these proofs because they often are included in systematic theology, but since they are also covered in the Apologetics , I will leave you with just a mention of them.
These proofs don’t lead us to the sovereign, personal God of Scripture.
These proofs don’t lead us to the sovereign, personal God of Scripture.
They can help show how it’s not irrational to believe in God, but none of these proofs tell you much of what God is like.
They can help show how it’s not irrational to believe in God, but none of these proofs tell you much of what God is like.
None of them get you to the God of Scripture and saving faith in Christ.
None of them get you to the God of Scripture and saving faith in Christ.
C. General and Special Revelation
C. General and Special Revelation
All knowledge of God rests on revelation.
All knowledge of God rests on revelation.
Though we can never know God in the full richness of his being, he is known to all people though his revelation in creation, the theater of his glory.
Though we can never know God in the full richness of his being, he is known to all people though his revelation in creation, the theater of his glory.
The world is never godless. In the end there is no atheists; there is only arguments about the nature of God.
The world is never godless. In the end there is no atheists; there is only arguments about the nature of God.
This distinction between what is known about God to all generally, and what is only known about him specially is often referred to as the “general” versus “special” revelation.
This distinction between what is known about God to all generally, and what is only known about him specially is often referred to as the “general” versus “special” revelation.
General revelation is that unveiling of God, the knowledge of God’s being and will which is given to all people everywhere, at all times, through the ordinary experience of being alive in God’s world. [Ps. 19:1, 2; Rom. 1:19, 20; 2:14, 15]
General revelation is that unveiling of God, the knowledge of God’s being and will which is given to all people everywhere, at all times, through the ordinary experience of being alive in God’s world. [Ps. 19:1, 2; Rom. 1:19, 20; 2:14, 15]
1 The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament sheweth his handywork.
2 Day unto day uttereth speech, And night unto night sheweth knowledge.
19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.
20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
14 For when the Gentiles, which have not the law, do by nature the things contained in the law, these, having not the law, are a law unto themselves:
15 Which shew the work of the law written in their hearts, their conscience also bearing witness, and their thoughts the mean while accusing or else excusing one another;)
Special revelation is how God has made himself known by particular acts and words, especially the Word of the Lord (=Scripture), and the Lord of the Word (=Jesus Christ).
Special revelation is how God has made himself known by particular acts and words, especially the Word of the Lord (=Scripture), and the Lord of the Word (=Jesus Christ).
1. What Does General Revelation Teach Us?
1. What Does General Revelation Teach Us?
Ps 19 and other texts, but I’m going to pick just two. Rom 1.18-32; Acts 17.22-31. As I read, what do these texts say general revelation teaches everyone who lives? READ.
Ps 19 and other texts, but I’m going to pick just two. Rom 1.18-32; Acts 17.22-31. As I read, what do these texts say general revelation teaches everyone who lives? READ.
To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.
1 The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament sheweth his handywork.
2 Day unto day uttereth speech, And night unto night sheweth knowledge.
3 There is no speech nor language, Where their voice is not heard.
4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, And their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,
5 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, And rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.
6 His going forth is from the end of the heaven, And his circuit unto the ends of it: And there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.
7 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.
8 The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.
9 The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.
10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: And in keeping of them there is great reward.
12 Who can understand his errors? Cleanse thou me from secret faults.
13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; Let them not have dominion over me: Then shall I be upright, And I shall be innocent from the great transgression.
14 Let the words of my mouth, And the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.
18 For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;
19 Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.
20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
21 Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened.
22 Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools,
23 And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things.
24 Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves:
25 Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen.
26 For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature:
27 And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet.
28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;
29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,
30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,
31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:
32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
22 Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars’ hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious.
23 For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.
24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;
25 Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;
26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:
28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.
29 Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone, graven by art and man’s device.
30 And the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men every where to repent:
31 Because he hath appointed a day, in the which he will judge the world in righteousness by that man whom he hath ordained; whereof he hath given assurance unto all men, in that he hath raised him from the dead.
What do these texts reveal to all mankind generally?
What do these texts reveal to all mankind generally?
· God is one. (Acts 17.26; Rom 1.20)
· God is one. (Acts 17.26; Rom 1.20)
26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
· God is the creator (Ps 19; Acts 17.25)
· God is the creator (Ps 19; Acts 17.25)
To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.
1 The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament sheweth his handywork.
2 Day unto day uttereth speech, And night unto night sheweth knowledge.
3 There is no speech nor language, Where their voice is not heard.
4 Their line is gone out through all the earth, And their words to the end of the world. In them hath he set a tabernacle for the sun,
5 Which is as a bridegroom coming out of his chamber, And rejoiceth as a strong man to run a race.
6 His going forth is from the end of the heaven, And his circuit unto the ends of it: And there is nothing hid from the heat thereof.
7 The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.
8 The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.
9 The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring for ever: The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.
10 More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.
11 Moreover by them is thy servant warned: And in keeping of them there is great reward.
12 Who can understand his errors? Cleanse thou me from secret faults.
13 Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; Let them not have dominion over me: Then shall I be upright, And I shall be innocent from the great transgression.
14 Let the words of my mouth, And the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.
25 Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;
· God is eternal and independent (Rom 1.20; Acts 17.25)
· God is eternal and independent (Rom 1.20; Acts 17.25)
20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
25 Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;
· God is invisible and powerful (Rom 1.20)
· God is invisible and powerful (Rom 1.20)
20 For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:
· God, though distinct from the universe, is active in it. (Acts 17.24; 26-27)
· God, though distinct from the universe, is active in it. (Acts 17.24; 26-27)
24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;
26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:
· God sustains all things (Acts 17.24-28; 14:15-16)
· God sustains all things (Acts 17.24-28; 14:15-16)
24 God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands;
25 Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;
26 And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation;
27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us:
28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.
15 And saying, Sirs, why do ye these things? We also are men of like passions with you, and preach unto you that ye should turn from these vanities unto the living God, which made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are therein:
16 Who in times past suffered all nations to walk in their own ways.
· God is moral, the ultimate source of our values (Rom 1.32)
· God is moral, the ultimate source of our values (Rom 1.32)
32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
The Bible says all these things we ought to know naturally, simply by fact that we are all made in God’s image and are live in this world he’s made.
The Bible says all these things we ought to know naturally, simply by fact that we are all made in God’s image and are live in this world he’s made.
{Some would argue, such as a Thomas Aquinas and many in the RC and Enlightenment tradition, that with the aid of reason and general revelation we can come to know who God is, and what he’s like.
{Some would argue, such as a Thomas Aquinas and many in the RC and Enlightenment tradition, that with the aid of reason and general revelation we can come to know who God is, and what he’s like.
So Natural Theology is the attempt to attain understanding of God and his relationship with the universe by means of natural reflection, without appealing to special revelation.}
So Natural Theology is the attempt to attain understanding of God and his relationship with the universe by means of natural reflection, without appealing to special revelation.}
And yet Paul stresses in Rom 1-2 that one of the effects of the fall is that we’ve rejected this knowledge of God and exchanged it for a lie.
And yet Paul stresses in Rom 1-2 that one of the effects of the fall is that we’ve rejected this knowledge of God and exchanged it for a lie.
Thus the Reformers and men like Martin Luther in The Bondage of the Will stressed the noetic (nous - mind in Latin) effects of sin.
Thus the Reformers and men like Martin Luther in The Bondage of the Will stressed the noetic (nous - mind in Latin) effects of sin.
Our minds are too warped as a result of the fall to get to God merely through reason applied to general revelation.
Our minds are too warped as a result of the fall to get to God merely through reason applied to general revelation.
Though conscience and nature point to God, in our fallenness we need the spectacles of Scripture and the regenerating work of the Spirit in order to see properly what is there.
Though conscience and nature point to God, in our fallenness we need the spectacles of Scripture and the regenerating work of the Spirit in order to see properly what is there.
One clear implication of this is that general revelation renders human beings guilty.
One clear implication of this is that general revelation renders human beings guilty.
We cannot escape God.
We cannot escape God.
Outside of us the created order screams at us like the lead singer of a metal band.
Outside of us the created order screams at us like the lead singer of a metal band.
Do you not see?
Do you not see?
Do you not understand?
Do you not understand?
There is a God who created you, and you’re accountable to him.
There is a God who created you, and you’re accountable to him.
We can close our eyes and plug our ears, but that won’t change reality.
We can close our eyes and plug our ears, but that won’t change reality.
And inside our own heads our consciences won’t give us any rest.
And inside our own heads our consciences won’t give us any rest.
ONE MAN remembers before he became a Christian, non-Christian friends would encourage me to do this and that - cheat on a test, randomly hook-up with someone at a party - yet he couldn’t escape the sense that there was something inherently wrong with such things.
ONE MAN remembers before he became a Christian, non-Christian friends would encourage me to do this and that - cheat on a test, randomly hook-up with someone at a party - yet he couldn’t escape the sense that there was something inherently wrong with such things.
And it’s not like he grew up in a religious family or ever heard the gospel.
And it’s not like he grew up in a religious family or ever heard the gospel.
Life becomes a constant attempt to explain away our conscience because we know what we ought to do, yet don't do.
Life becomes a constant attempt to explain away our conscience because we know what we ought to do, yet don't do.
To varying degrees we all reject the knowledge God has generally provided, and this alone is sufficient to condemn us.
To varying degrees we all reject the knowledge God has generally provided, and this alone is sufficient to condemn us.
So in this sense general revelation is fully authoritative, sufficient, and perspicuous (=clear), but it is not salvific. It alone can’t save.]
So in this sense general revelation is fully authoritative, sufficient, and perspicuous (=clear), but it is not salvific. It alone can’t save.]
III. The Attributes of God
III. The Attributes of God
Because sin blinds and distorts our perceptions of God, if we are to know what God is really like, we must turn to His revelation of Himself in the Bible.
Because sin blinds and distorts our perceptions of God, if we are to know what God is really like, we must turn to His revelation of Himself in the Bible.
But I want to ask a question when you think of describing God from Scripture, what are some words that first come to mind?
But I want to ask a question when you think of describing God from Scripture, what are some words that first come to mind?
(e.g,, love, sovereign, good) These words make up God’s attributes.
(e.g,, love, sovereign, good) These words make up God’s attributes.
SIDE NOTE: The incomprehensible God has made himself known by speaking to us and showing us who he is.
SIDE NOTE: The incomprehensible God has made himself known by speaking to us and showing us who he is.
When theologians speak of the attributes of God, they’re referring to those qualities that are essential to the nature of God, who he is, and what he’s like.
When theologians speak of the attributes of God, they’re referring to those qualities that are essential to the nature of God, who he is, and what he’s like.
Most systematic theologians elect to classify God’s attributes by dividing them up into various classes: incommunicable attributes (those attributes God alone possess - omnipotence, omniscience, etc.) and communicable attributes (those attributes we share, albeit in a fallen and finite way, with God - love, justice, etc.).
Most systematic theologians elect to classify God’s attributes by dividing them up into various classes: incommunicable attributes (those attributes God alone possess - omnipotence, omniscience, etc.) and communicable attributes (those attributes we share, albeit in a fallen and finite way, with God - love, justice, etc.).
Incommunicable Attributes
Incommunicable Attributes
1. The Independence or Self-Existence of God [Aseity]
1. The Independence or Self-Existence of God [Aseity]
(Ex 3.14; Ps 50:8-15; See Also Ps. 33:11; 115:3; Isa. 40:18 ff.; Dan. 4:35; John 5:26; Rom. 11:33-36; Acts 17:25; Rev. 4:11.)
(Ex 3.14; Ps 50:8-15; See Also Ps. 33:11; 115:3; Isa. 40:18 ff.; Dan. 4:35; John 5:26; Rom. 11:33-36; Acts 17:25; Rev. 4:11.)
14 And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.
8 I will not reprove thee for thy sacrifices Or thy burnt offerings, to have been continually before me.
9 I will take no bullock out of thy house, Nor he goats out of thy folds.
10 For every beast of the forest is mine, And the cattle upon a thousand hills.
11 I know all the fowls of the mountains: And the wild beasts of the field are mine.
12 If I were hungry, I would not tell thee: For the world is mine, and the fulness thereof.
13 Will I eat the flesh of bulls, Or drink the blood of goats?
14 Offer unto God thanksgiving; And pay thy vows unto the most High:
15 And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.
11 The counsel of the Lord standeth for ever, The thoughts of his heart to all generations.
3 But our God is in the heavens: He hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.
18 To whom then will ye liken God? Or what likeness will ye compare unto him?
19 The workman melteth a graven image, And the goldsmith spreadeth it over with gold, And casteth silver chains.
20 He that is so impoverished that he hath no oblation chooseth a tree that will not rot; He seeketh unto him a cunning workman To prepare a graven image, that shall not be moved.
21 Have ye not known? have ye not heard? Hath it not been told you from the beginning? Have ye not understood from the foundations of the earth?
22 It is he that sitteth upon the circle of the earth, And the inhabitants thereof are as grasshoppers; That stretcheth out the heavens as a curtain, And spreadeth them out as a tent to dwell in:
23 That bringeth the princes to nothing; He maketh the judges of the earth as vanity.
24 Yea, they shall not be planted; Yea, they shall not be sown: Yea, their stock shall not take root in the earth: And he shall also blow upon them, and they shall wither, And the whirlwind shall take them away as stubble.
25 To whom then will ye liken me, or shall I be equal? saith the Holy One.
26 Lift up your eyes on high, And behold who hath created these things, That bringeth out their host by number: He calleth them all by names By the greatness of his might, for that he is strong in power; Not one faileth.
27 Why sayest thou, O Jacob, and speakest, O Israel, My way is hid from the Lord, And my judgment is passed over from my God?
28 Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, That the everlasting God, the Lord, The Creator of the ends of the earth, Fainteth not, neither is weary? There is no searching of his understanding.
29 He giveth power to the faint; And to them that have no might he increaseth strength.
30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, And the young men shall utterly fall:
31 But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings as eagles; They shall run, and not be weary; And they shall walk, and not faint.
35 And all the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing: and he doeth according to his will in the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth: and none can stay his hand, or say unto him, What doest thou?
26 For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself;
33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
34 For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counseller?
35 Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again?
36 For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen.
25 Neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things;
11 Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.
God’s existence and character are determined by Himself alone and are not dependent on anyone or anything else.
God’s existence and character are determined by Himself alone and are not dependent on anyone or anything else.
This is sometimes referred to as aseity (a se = having life from oneself).
This is sometimes referred to as aseity (a se = having life from oneself).
He owns all things, he has no needs outside himself. God didn’t create us because he was lonely and needed some company, or he needed us to complete him.
He owns all things, he has no needs outside himself. God didn’t create us because he was lonely and needed some company, or he needed us to complete him.
In the trinity God is self-existent, self-sufficient, and self-contained. “I am who I am” (Ex 3.14) [“I WILL BE WHO I WILL BE”] He needs nothing.
In the trinity God is self-existent, self-sufficient, and self-contained. “I am who I am” (Ex 3.14) [“I WILL BE WHO I WILL BE”] He needs nothing.
14 And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.
We need hours and hours of sleep in order to keep our eyes open, water to keep us alive, food for energy, shelters for protection, doctors for our health, teachers to teach us all the things we don’t know and then promptly forget… and I could go on and on. [Pagan gods needing things…]
God?
God?
He needs… nothing!
He needs… nothing!
[2 Sam 7:14] Life, strength, protection, health, knowledge - he has it completely in himself! … which is exactly why we can go to him and depend upon him at all times.
[2 Sam 7:14] Life, strength, protection, health, knowledge - he has it completely in himself! … which is exactly why we can go to him and depend upon him at all times.
14 I will be his father, and he shall be my son. If he commit iniquity, I will chasten him with the rod of men, and with the stripes of the children of men:
He is the king. His word, rules.
He is the king. His word, rules.
Literally.
Literally.
But he’s not the kind of king who’s constrained by budget deficits, a divided congress, NATO, or the weakness of age.
But he’s not the kind of king who’s constrained by budget deficits, a divided congress, NATO, or the weakness of age.
He is entirely free of all such constraints.
He is entirely free of all such constraints.
Because he’s dependent on nothing and no one, he is always able to be there for his people. His independence and self-existence ought to be a huge encouragement to us.
Because he’s dependent on nothing and no one, he is always able to be there for his people. His independence and self-existence ought to be a huge encouragement to us.
2. The Immutability of God
2. The Immutability of God
Secondly,
Secondly,
God is immutable.
God is immutable.
Namely, God in his nature, character, and purposes, does not change.
Namely, God in his nature, character, and purposes, does not change.
We have to change our plans all the time, either because we lack the necessary foresight and knowledge to anticipate all contingencies, or because we lack the power and ability to effect what we plan.
We have to change our plans all the time, either because we lack the necessary foresight and knowledge to anticipate all contingencies, or because we lack the power and ability to effect what we plan.
But not so with God.
But not so with God.
God has all power and knowledge.
God has all power and knowledge.
Floods, snow, fire, government shutdowns - nothing like this thwarts his purposes.
Floods, snow, fire, government shutdowns - nothing like this thwarts his purposes.
Nothing ever catches God by surprise.
Nothing ever catches God by surprise.
God never has to resort to Plan B, or C.
God never has to resort to Plan B, or C.
He needs no contingency plan, no fallback option, no emergency escape route.
He needs no contingency plan, no fallback option, no emergency escape route.
Practically, this means we can always trust him and rely on his word.
Practically, this means we can always trust him and rely on his word.
He will always act in conformity with what he has promised.
He will always act in conformity with what he has promised.
And so we have confidence in him. We live as if on the surface of a restless ocean, everything shifting and changing about us.
And so we have confidence in him. We live as if on the surface of a restless ocean, everything shifting and changing about us.
We’re always trying to catch our balance in this world. But God… is a rock amidst those fluctuating waters.
We’re always trying to catch our balance in this world. But God… is a rock amidst those fluctuating waters.
And so with unshakeable confidence we can stand firmly upon him.
And so with unshakeable confidence we can stand firmly upon him.
Some reject this teaching.
Some reject this teaching.
They’ll say God cannot know our future decision in order for those decisions to be fully free.
They’ll say God cannot know our future decision in order for those decisions to be fully free.
For if he knows them in advance, that means they will necessarily happen, which means that decision can’t be truly free for we only could have done what God already foreknew, and nothing else (eg. what have for lunch).
For if he knows them in advance, that means they will necessarily happen, which means that decision can’t be truly free for we only could have done what God already foreknew, and nothing else (eg. what have for lunch).
So they’ll say God is a great guesser, but since he doesn’t finally know, we can’t say he’s immutable. Like us, he’ll have to change his mind.
So they’ll say God is a great guesser, but since he doesn’t finally know, we can’t say he’s immutable. Like us, he’ll have to change his mind.
Now related to this is the notion of impassibility (literally means without emotion).
Now related to this is the notion of impassibility (literally means without emotion).
If God cannot be ruled by another and is dependent on no one, is there any way in which God legitimately has feelings, emotions?
If God cannot be ruled by another and is dependent on no one, is there any way in which God legitimately has feelings, emotions?
It’s a natural question, for how can emotions be appropriate to one who is utterly independent and self-sufficient?
It’s a natural question, for how can emotions be appropriate to one who is utterly independent and self-sufficient?
Biblically, God has emotions.
Biblically, God has emotions.
He’s not the unmoved mover of Greek thought. It’s just that they’re not like ours. We’re surprised, caught off guard, confused, hurt, thus we cry.
He’s not the unmoved mover of Greek thought. It’s just that they’re not like ours. We’re surprised, caught off guard, confused, hurt, thus we cry.
In our anger we lash out.
In our anger we lash out.
God too may grieve, but not in the same way. When he suffers, he chooses to.
God too may grieve, but not in the same way. When he suffers, he chooses to.
His passions are real, but he’s not ruled by them.
His passions are real, but he’s not ruled by them.
Anger rules us, but God rules over anger.
Anger rules us, but God rules over anger.
That’s the fundamental difference.
That’s the fundamental difference.
[So when the it is said that God is “without parts or passions,” it is not denying God’s responsiveness to creaturely action, rather it is denying
[So when the it is said that God is “without parts or passions,” it is not denying God’s responsiveness to creaturely action, rather it is denying
(a) that God is “made up” of various faculties or emotions and (
(a) that God is “made up” of various faculties or emotions and (
b) that God is taken captive by anything other then his own nature.
b) that God is taken captive by anything other then his own nature.
The constituent biblical testimony is that while God may be opposed and provoked, God cannot be overcome by surprise or distress, anger, compassion, or opposition. Good news for those who deserve God’s wrath [Hosea 11:9].
The constituent biblical testimony is that while God may be opposed and provoked, God cannot be overcome by surprise or distress, anger, compassion, or opposition. Good news for those who deserve God’s wrath [Hosea 11:9].
There’s a lot we could say, but Scripture is clear. Num. 23.19 Or 1 Sam 15.29“
There’s a lot we could say, but Scripture is clear. Num. 23.19 Or 1 Sam 15.29“
(1Sam 15.29)
(1Sam 15.29)
God is perfectly immutable, and thus perfectly dependable.
God is perfectly immutable, and thus perfectly dependable.
3. God is Infinite
3. God is Infinite
Thirdly, the Bible also teaches God is infinite.
Thirdly, the Bible also teaches God is infinite.
This means that there is no limitation to God’s perfections.
This means that there is no limitation to God’s perfections.
His infinity is expressed in a number of ways, such as in space, in power, and in time.
His infinity is expressed in a number of ways, such as in space, in power, and in time.
First, God is infinite in space or omnipresent.
First, God is infinite in space or omnipresent.
This means that God transcends spatial limitations, is without size, and is present at every point of space with his whole being.
This means that God transcends spatial limitations, is without size, and is present at every point of space with his whole being.
When people refer to God as being “a big God”, they are referring to his greatness rather than a quantitative measurement.
When people refer to God as being “a big God”, they are referring to his greatness rather than a quantitative measurement.
Psalm 139 conveys this clearly when it says,
Psalm 139 conveys this clearly when it says,
To the chief Musician, A Psalm of David.
1 O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me.
2 Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, Thou understandest my thought afar off.
3 Thou compassest my path and my lying down, And art acquainted with all my ways.
4 For there is not a word in my tongue, But, lo, O Lord, thou knowest it altogether.
5 Thou hast beset me behind and before, And laid thine hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; It is high, I cannot attain unto it.
7 Whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence?
8 If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: If I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there.
9 If I take the wings of the morning, And dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea;
10 Even there shall thy hand lead me, And thy right hand shall hold me.
11 If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; Even the night shall be light about me.
12 Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; But the night shineth as the day: The darkness and the light are both alike to thee.
13 For thou hast possessed my reins: Thou hast covered me in my mother’s womb.
14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: Marvellous are thy works; And that my soul knoweth right well.
15 My substance was not hid from thee, When I was made in secret, And curiously wrought in the lowest parts of the earth.
16 Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; And in thy book all my members were written, Which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.
17 How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God! How great is the sum of them!
18 If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: When I awake, I am still with thee.
19 Surely thou wilt slay the wicked, O God: Depart from me therefore, ye bloody men.
20 For they speak against thee wickedly, And thine enemies take thy name in vain.
21 Do not I hate them, O Lord, that hate thee? And am not I grieved with those that rise up against thee?
22 I hate them with perfect hatred: I count them mine enemies.
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart: Try me, and know my thoughts:
24 And see if there be any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.
A corollary to this is that God is spirit (Jn 4.24). He’s incorporeal. He’s not made of matter, he has no parts or dimensions.
A corollary to this is that God is spirit (Jn 4.24). He’s incorporeal. He’s not made of matter, he has no parts or dimensions.
24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
Though God is wholly present throughout all things, he is yet distinct from all things.
Though God is wholly present throughout all things, he is yet distinct from all things.
Pantheism asserts that God minus the world = 0.
Pantheism asserts that God minus the world = 0.
They are perfectly identified.
They are perfectly identified.
The Bible asserts that God minus the world = God.
The Bible asserts that God minus the world = God.
He is distinct from all he is created.
He is distinct from all he is created.
So for God to move into my house doesn’t mean I have to move out.
So for God to move into my house doesn’t mean I have to move out.
We think of presence in terms of physicality, not so with God.
We think of presence in terms of physicality, not so with God.
So when we read that the Spirit is “indwelling” or “abiding” in a Christian, or we read that God is “in heaven,” it’s not referring so much to location as to relationship.
So when we read that the Spirit is “indwelling” or “abiding” in a Christian, or we read that God is “in heaven,” it’s not referring so much to location as to relationship.
The Spirit indwells in that he’s is present with us in a saving way.
The Spirit indwells in that he’s is present with us in a saving way.
We can “enter into his presence” not that we’ve spatially become closer to God, but that we access through Christ to a new relationship with God where we can bring everything before the throne of his grace.
We can “enter into his presence” not that we’ve spatially become closer to God, but that we access through Christ to a new relationship with God where we can bring everything before the throne of his grace.
So hell is not the absence of God, but the absence of God in a saving way.
So hell is not the absence of God, but the absence of God in a saving way.
Hell is the presence of God in the fullness of his wrath.
Hell is the presence of God in the fullness of his wrath.
Practically speaking, God’s omnipresence means we can always be certain of God’s undivided attention.
Practically speaking, God’s omnipresence means we can always be certain of God’s undivided attention.
We don’t need to stand in line, or make an appointment, or take a religious pilgrimage.
We don’t need to stand in line, or make an appointment, or take a religious pilgrimage.
We are in his presence! But it’s also a warning. We have no place to hide.
We are in his presence! But it’s also a warning. We have no place to hide.
There is no corner of the universe where God is not.
There is no corner of the universe where God is not.
He sees it all.
He sees it all.
Jean Paul Sartre calls God the “cosmic voyeur” because he hates this idea that God is everywhere.
Jean Paul Sartre calls God the “cosmic voyeur” because he hates this idea that God is everywhere.
It means we’re accountable.
It means we’re accountable.
Hide and seek is not a game we can play with God in our sins.
Hide and seek is not a game we can play with God in our sins.
We shouldn’t deceive ourselves.
We shouldn’t deceive ourselves.
So if you’re trying to hide, just come out and confess it.
So if you’re trying to hide, just come out and confess it.
You’re not fooling God. So be reconciled to him.
You’re not fooling God. So be reconciled to him.
But God’s not just omnipresent, he’s also infinite in power, or omnipotent.
But God’s not just omnipresent, he’s also infinite in power, or omnipotent.
God is able to do all that He decides to do.
God is able to do all that He decides to do.
Jesus tells us in Matt 19:26 that “with God all things are possible.”
Jesus tells us in Matt 19:26 that “with God all things are possible.”
26 But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.
Jeremiah in Jer 32.17 declares that there is nothing too hard for the Sovereign Lord. Did you hear that?
Jeremiah in Jer 32.17 declares that there is nothing too hard for the Sovereign Lord. Did you hear that?
17 Ah Lord God! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee:
Nothing is too hard for God.
Nothing is too hard for God.
So does this mean that God can do everything?
So does this mean that God can do everything?
Classic freshman year of college question, “can God make a rock so big that he cannot move it?”
Classic freshman year of college question, “can God make a rock so big that he cannot move it?”
You’re trapped.
You’re trapped.
But that question presents a false dilemma based off a false assumption, that God can do anything.
But that question presents a false dilemma based off a false assumption, that God can do anything.
It’s better to say “God can do everything” by saying that “God can do everything that He wills to do and is consistent with his character.”
It’s better to say “God can do everything” by saying that “God can do everything that He wills to do and is consistent with his character.”
For example, according to Hebrews, God cannot lie (Heb. 6:18). In II Timothy 2:13, we find that God cannot disown Himself.
For example, according to Hebrews, God cannot lie (Heb. 6:18). In II Timothy 2:13, we find that God cannot disown Himself.
18 That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us:
13 If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself.
God cannot cease to be God or act in a way inconsistent with any of his other attributes.
God cannot cease to be God or act in a way inconsistent with any of his other attributes.
This too is great encouragement.
This too is great encouragement.
A god who can feel but not help is of little use. It’s a comfort in our persecution.
A god who can feel but not help is of little use. It’s a comfort in our persecution.
Ps 27.1) It’s a comfort in our prayers.
Ps 27.1) It’s a comfort in our prayers.
1 The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?
(Eph 3.20) It gives us confidence in the future.
(Eph 3.20) It gives us confidence in the future.
20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,
(Jude 24-25) So if God does not answer our prayers, or respond a particular way, we trust his wisdom, which we’ll think about next week.
(Jude 24-25) So if God does not answer our prayers, or respond a particular way, we trust his wisdom, which we’ll think about next week.
24 Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,
25 to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.
But God is also infinite in time - eternal. Psalm 90:2 reads,
But God is also infinite in time - eternal. Psalm 90:2 reads,
2 Before the mountains were brought forth, Or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, Even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God.
This doesn’t mean God is everywhere in time, but that he transcends the very limitations of time.
This doesn’t mean God is everywhere in time, but that he transcends the very limitations of time.
He has no beginning or end.
He has no beginning or end.
Some have likened time to a long parade.
Some have likened time to a long parade.
We’re in the parade, marching alone, experiencing only one section of it.
We’re in the parade, marching alone, experiencing only one section of it.
Whereas God stands on top of a mountain, sees it all at once. It’s not passing him by, so to speak.
Whereas God stands on top of a mountain, sees it all at once. It’s not passing him by, so to speak.
Practically, this means God will always be there for us. He won’t be that friend who ever moves away, or worse yet, dies on us.
Practically, this means God will always be there for us. He won’t be that friend who ever moves away, or worse yet, dies on us.
He always was and will be, and thus he always is there for us.
He always was and will be, and thus he always is there for us.
We can make all our plans around him, trust him, know he’ll be there, for he’s eternal.
We can make all our plans around him, trust him, know he’ll be there, for he’s eternal.
Brothers and sisters, God’s not like us. He’s majestic, glorious. Perfectly self-sufficient, with perfect plans, perfect power, covering everything, all the time. Before you leave, ask yourself this one question. In light of all this, why would you be tempted to place your affections, your security, your well-being in anybody else?
Brothers and sisters, God’s not like us. He’s majestic, glorious. Perfectly self-sufficient, with perfect plans, perfect power, covering everything, all the time. Before you leave, ask yourself this one question. In light of all this, why would you be tempted to place your affections, your security, your well-being in anybody else?
PRAYER
PRAYER
- Romans 11:33-36
33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
34 For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counseller?
35 Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again?
36 For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen.