CHRISTIAN GROWTH LESSON 9

GOD

The Bible does not present any argument for the existence of God;

it takes the FACT of God for granted.

God is infinite and perfect Spirit in Whom all things have their source, support, and end.

The Word of God reveals God to us.

Because God is infinitely beyond our human comprehension, the Bible often couches God in human language.

Study Outline: 1. Who Made God? 2. How do we know there is a God? 3. How many Gods are there? 4. What is God? 5. What is God Like? 6. What is God called

1. Who Made God?

NO one! God is eternal.

The fact we cannot grasp this does not make it not so (we may not understand hoe electricity makes the lights work but why sit around in the dark until we figure this out) Look up: Hebrews 11:6

Hebrews 11:6 KJV 1900

6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Those that come to God must believe that He is!

2. How do we know there is a God?

A number of reasons are given in the Bible to show how we can know there is a God:

A. The fact of Universal Belief proves there is a God: Man has uniquely “religious nature.”

All men in all ages have manifested a belief in some high being.

For the most part, this belief is perverted – but it demonstrates a universal understanding of the existence of a supreme being.

i) Look up: Romans 2:14, 15:

Romans 2:14 KJV 1900

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:

Romans 2:15 KJV 1900

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;)

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:

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 B. The fact that everything must have a cause proves there is a God:

i.) Man is an intelligent being - therefore his Cause must also be indigent.

ii.) Man has personality – thus his Cause could not be impersonal. C. The fact of the intricate design in the universe proves there is a God:

A watch not only requires a watchmaker, but also a designer and a purpose. Look up: Psalm 139:14

Psalm 139:14 KJV 1900

14 I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: Marvellous are thy works; And that my soul knoweth right well.

I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well. D. The whole of creation proves there is a God.

i.) Look up: Psalms 19:1 The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. The heavens declare God’s handiwork!

Psalm 19:1 KJV 1900

1 The heavens declare the glory of God; And the firmament sheweth his handywork.

ii.) Look up: Romans 1:20 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: The two things are are seen and understood through creation:

Romans 1:20 KJV 1900

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:

His eternal power and Godhead. E. The events of history prove there is a God: Many times God has intervened in human history, and his hand is often seen in the rise and fall of nations.

Look up: Psalms 75: 6, 7 F. The Bible says there is a God: If there is a God , it seems most reasonable to expect Him to reveal Himself to man.

Psalm 75:6 KJV 1900

6 For promotion cometh neither from the east, Nor from the west, nor from the south.

Psalm 75:7 KJV 1900

7 But God is the judge: He putteth down one, and setteth up another.

Psalm 75:6 KJV 1900

6 For promotion cometh neither from the east, Nor from the west, nor from the south.

Psalm 75:7 KJV 1900

7 But God is the judge: He putteth down one, and setteth up another.

This He has done – first through the witness of creation, but also in detail through His Word: Look up Genesis 1:1

Genesis 1:1 KJV 1900

1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.

In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. The Bible begins with God – not philosophical arguments for His existence! G. Personal note: People experience God moving their everyday lives… but will they accept this as proof of His existence??? 3. How many Gods are there?

A. There is only ONE God. Look up:

i.) Deuteronomy 6:4 Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD:

Deuteronomy 6:4 KJV 1900

4 Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord:

ii.) Isaiah 45:5 I am the LORD, and there is none else, there is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me:

Isaiah 45:5 KJV 1900

5 I am the Lord, and there is none else, There is no God beside me: I girded thee, though thou hast not known me:

iii.) 1 Timothy 2:5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; B. Look up:

1 Timothy 2:5 KJV 1900

5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;

i.) Matthew 28:19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

Matthew 28:19 KJV 1900

19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:

ii.) 1 John 5:7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. This is One God eternally, equally, and essentially exists as ONE. The Father, The Son, and The Holy Ghost. This is known as the doctrine of the Trinity – the Bible teaches there is ONE God, but three Persons in the Godhead. We cannot comprehend this but can use an analogy in explanation: water can exist as a solid, liquid, and vapor – just like a glass of ice water. Each phase may exist separately, or with another, or all together. 4. What is God?

1 John 5:7 KJV 1900

7 For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one.

A. There are Four statements in the Bible telling us what God is:

i.) God is a spirit (His divine essence). John 4:24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

John 4:24 KJV 1900

24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

ii.) God is love (His divine compassion). 1 John 4:8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.

1 John 4:8 KJV 1900

8 He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.

iii.) God is light (His divine holiness). 1 John 1:5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.

1 John 1:5 KJV 1900

5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.

iv.) God is a consuming fire (His divine righteousness) Hebrews 12:29 For our God is a consuming fire. This is a key aspect of God omitted by man and fostered by Satan! B. The Bible also teaches that God is a person – i.e. He has personality!

Hebrews 12:29 KJV 1900

29 For our God is a consuming fire.

i.) God loves - John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 3:16 KJV 1900

16 For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

ii.) God hates - Proverbs 6:16 These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him:

Proverbs 6:16 KJV 1900

16 These six things doth the Lord hate: Yea, seven are an abomination unto him:

iii.) God grieves - Genesis 6:6 And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.

Genesis 6:6 KJV 1900

6 And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.

iv.) God is jealous - Deuteronomy 6:15 (For the LORD thy God is a jealous God among you) lest the anger of the LORD thy God be kindled against thee, and destroy thee from off the face of the earth.

Deuteronomy 6:15 KJV 1900

15 (For the Lord thy God is a jealous God among you) lest the anger of the Lord thy God be kindled against thee, and destroy thee from off the face of the earth.

v.) God can be angry - 1 Kings 11:9 And the LORD was angry with Solomon, because his heart was turned from the LORD God of Israel, which had appeared unto him twice,

1 Kings 11:9 KJV 1900

9 And the Lord was angry with Solomon, because his heart was turned from the Lord God of Israel, which had appeared unto him twice,

vi.) God cares - 1 Peter 5:7

1 Peter 5:7 KJV 1900

7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. These are all characteristics of personality. There are some who think God is just an impersonal “force” or that he is just “nature”. He is much more complex that this! Non-believers typically chose to accept only the nice characteristics of God. 5. What is God Like?

1 Peter 5:7 KJV 1900

7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

If we look at God’s creation we know Him to be mighty, glorious, and majestic. But, it is through he Bible that God reveals Himself completely. No man will ever be able to comprehend the essence of God (what He is). It is only through God’s attributes that He makes Himself know to finite man. A. God is all knowing – Omniscient

i.) Five things God knows about you: Psalms 139:1-4

Psalm 139:1–4 KJV 1900

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.

ii.) God knows our heart: 1 John 3:20 B. God is powerful – Omnipotent i.) God can do anything: Job 42:2 ii.) God can do anything: Matthew 19:26 C. God is everywhere – Omnipresent i.) Psalms 139:7-17 D. God is eternal i.) Exodus 3:14 ii.) Psalms 90:2

This verse tells us that God extends from – everlasting to everlasting!

1 John 3:20 KJV 1900

20 For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.

1 John 3:20 KJV 1900

20 For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.

Psalm 139:1–4 KJV 1900

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.

1 John 3:20 KJV 1900

20 For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.

Job 42:2 KJV 1900

2 I know that thou canst do every thing, And that no thought can be withholden from thee.

Matthew 19:26 KJV 1900

26 But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

Psalm 139:7–17 KJV 1900

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!

Exodus 3:14 KJV 1900

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.

Psalm 90:2 KJV 1900

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.

1 Peter 5:7 KJV 1900

7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

E. God is unchanging - Immutable

i.) Malachi 3:6

Malachi 3:6 KJV 1900

6 For I am the Lord, I change not; Therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.

GOD DOES NOT CHANGE.

F. God is Holy

i.) Psalms 99:9 G. God is love – He proved His love by having Christ die for our sins.

Psalm 99:9 KJV 1900

9 Exalt the Lord our God, And worship at his holy hill; For the Lord our God is holy.

i.) Romans 5:8 H. God is gracious

Romans 5:8 KJV 1900

8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

i.) Grace means “undeserved favor” (1) God’s (2) Riches (3) At (4) Christ’s (5) Expense

ii.) We are saved by grace – Ephesians 2:8

Ephesians 2:8 KJV 1900

8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

iii.) We are taught by grace – Titus 2:11, 12

Titus 2:11 KJV 1900

11 For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,

Titus 2:12 KJV 1900

12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;

iv.) We are kept by grace – 2 Corinthians 12:9

2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV 1900

9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

I. God is truth

i.) Titus 1:2 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; GOD CANNOT LIE

Titus 1:2 KJV 1900

2 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;

ii.) Isaiah 40:8

Isaiah 40:8 KJV 1900

8 The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: But the word of our God shall stand for ever.

6. What is God called?

A. Elohim – which translates to “God” in our English Bible ( the Greek equivalent of ‘theos” in the New Testament). This speaks of God’s greatness and power as Creator.

B. Adonai – which is translated “Lord” in our English Bible. This means God is the Owner and Master.

C. Jehovah – which is translated “Lord” in our English Bibles. The meaning of Jehovah is given in Exodus 3:13-14 “I AM THAT I AM “ = “The Self-existent One Who Reveals Himself.” The word “Jesus is the Greek form of the Hebrew “Joshua” and literally means “Jehovah-Saviour.” The New Testamant clearly teaches that Jesus is Jehova. John 8:58

John 8:58 KJV 1900

58 Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.

Exodus 3:13–14 KJV 1900

13 And Moses said unto God, Behold, when I come unto the children of Israel, and shall say unto them, The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you; and they shall say to me, What is his name? what shall I say unto them? 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.

The Person We Call God | Who am I?

I am a finite creature who is responsible to the infinite Creator.

Introduction to the Doctrine of God

The word “theology” means “the study of God.” It is used in both a general sense and a specific sense.

The word is applied generally to any study of biblical truth.

A study specifically concerned with the person of God is known as Theology Proper.

This is the subject of the five lessons in this section. It might seem unusual to begin the answer to the question,

“Who am I?,”

with a study of the person of God.

Some, no doubt, would begin to answer the question with a challenge to look inside and know oneself.

Others would begin with a discourse on self-esteem.

But, just as the logical starting place in any book is the beginning, so our study must start “in the beginning” Gen 1:1

Genesis 1:1 KJV 1900

1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.

Your life is a small part of a greater history. You are part of the human race.

To know yourself, you must see the “big picture.”

Specifically, you must understand how and why humanity came into being.

This requires an understanding of the One who created you.

Without a clear and accurate knowledge of the character of the true God, the Christian faith is unintelligible and principles of Christian living are meaningless.

Therefore, this study of the doctrine of God will provide the foundation for every other lesson in Biblical Foundations for Living. If you are a believer, you know God. Think about it! You know Him and can come to understand Him better (Jeremiah 9:24).

Jeremiah 9:24 KJV 1900

24 But let him that glorieth glory in this, That he understandeth and knoweth me, That I am the Lord which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: For in these things I delight, saith the Lord.

Getting to know God better is a goal the Christian will spend his entire life pursuing.

It is a pursuit that is never boring or impractical.

To know God is the most relevant activity one can undertake. It is life-changing.

Part 1: The Person We Call God

This lesson is designed to introduce you to three basic truths about God.

It is simply an introduction because there will always be more to learn about Him.

These three truths will form the foundation for your life-long task of developing your understanding of God.

These three truths are:

1. God exists .

2. God is a person .

3. God is a triunity .

I. God Exists.

This truth might sound obvious, but it is the place where a discussion of God must begin, seeing His existence is doubted or denied by many.

[The word for “God” in Greek is theos. A theist says God (or a god) does exist. An atheist is one who says God does not exist. An agnostic says one cannot know if God exists or not. ]

Note the following facts about His existence:

A. The existence of God is stated as fact in Scripture.

From the opening words of the Bible, the reader is brought face to face with his Creator.

No attempt is made to prove His existence. Genesis 1:1 begins with a clear statement of fact: “In the beginning God . . . .” God is under no obligation to prove to man that He exists.

Genesis 1:1 KJV 1900

1 In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.

Any such obligation would make God answerable to man rather than vice versa.

Nevertheless, God has chosen to reveal Himself through His Word.

Anyone who genuinely desires to know God can gain an understanding of Him from the Bible.

B. The existence of God is a matter of faith .    Hebrews 11:6

Hebrews 11:6 KJV 1900

6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Throughout history, Christians have tried to convince non Christians that God exists by using weighty, logical arguments.

The best these arguments can accomplish is to demonstrate the probability , but never the certainty , of God’s existence.

All men know that there is a god of some sort.

The true God, however, can only be known through faith in the Scriptures.

[The fact that all people know something about God is true because of general revelation (c.f., Rom 1:18-20).

Romans 1:18–20 KJV 1900

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:

Special revelation (the Bible) is necessary for us to know more about God. ]

Is it possible to prove God’s existence?

No.

Is it necessary?

No. Rom 10:17–faith comes thru hearing the word of God, not by being convinced that God exists, etc.

Romans 10:17 KJV 1900

17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Further, one exercises faith because God gives him the gift of faith (Eph 2:8), not because he is convinced intellectually of the Bible’s truth.]

Ephesians 2:8 KJV 1900

8 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:

II. God is a Person.

Most people are somewhat religious. The existence of a supreme power makes sense to them, but they refuse to admit that this power is the God of the Bible.

Many (such as those under the influence of Far Eastern mystical religions) have come to think of God as a force or controlling energy .

The Bible is very clear, however, that He is a person.

A. The components of God’s personality

[By “personality” I don’t mean happy or outgoing or shy. I mean personhood. God is a person. He has the components of personality. ]

The Bible presents a complex view of personality, whether human or divine.

Theologians sometimes differ as to what constitutes personality but usually agree that it involves three things, all three of which God does.

1. God thinks .

This is the function of the mind .

As a thinking being, God possesses wisdom , understanding , and knowledge .

Proverbs 3:19 -20

Proverbs 3:19–20 KJV 1900

19 The Lord by wisdom hath founded the earth; By understanding hath he established the heavens. 20 By his knowledge the depths are broken up, And the clouds drop down the dew.

2. God acts .

This is the function of the will .

God does not act on impulse or in submission to the laws of nature.

His actions are free and in keeping with His purposes .

.   Isaiah 46:11 [When we say that God is free, we mean that He is the only one who is truly unlimited in action.

Isaiah 46:11 KJV 1900

11 Calling a ravenous bird from the east, The man that executeth my counsel from a far country: Yea, I have spoken it, I will also bring it to pass; I have purposed it, I will also do it.

All other beings have limitations; God doesn’t.

Although He is free to do anything He wills, He will only do those things that are in keeping with His purposes and character.

There are things he can’t do: immoral things and impossible things (e.g., make a square circle).]

3. God feels .

This is the function of the emotions .

The Bible is clear that our God feels a full range of emotions  from joy (Isaiah 62:5) to sorrow (Gen. 6:6) and from compassion (Psalm 145:8) to hate (Psalm 5:5).

Isaiah 62:5 KJV 1900

5 For as a young man marrieth a virgin, So shall thy sons marry thee: And as the bridegroom rejoiceth over the bride, So shall thy God rejoice over thee.

Genesis 6:6 KJV 1900

6 And it repented the Lord that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.

Psalm 145:8 KJV 1900

8 The Lord is gracious, and full of compassion; Slow to anger, and of great mercy.

Psalm 5:5 KJV 1900

5 The foolish shall not stand in thy sight: Thou hatest all workers of iniquity.

B. The significance of God’s personality

The statement, “God is a person,” has critical implications for the Christian life.

Consider the following:

1. The personality of God gives meaning to prayer .

The Christian actually communicates with God when he prays.

Prayer is not a mechanical activity designed simply to obtain God’s favor, nor is it a mystical experience designed to make one feel good.

Genuine prayer is heard and answered by a personal God.

Matthew 6:7 8

Matthew 6:7 KJV 1900

7 But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking.

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.   1 Peter 5:7

1 Peter 5:7 KJV 1900

7 Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

2. The personality of God gives meaning to

worship .

  Isaiah 46:5 7

Isaiah 46:5 KJV 1900

5 To whom will ye liken me, and make me equal, And compare me, that we may be like?

3. The personality of God gives meaning to service . Duty imposed apart from personal involvement is empty and unfulfilling and soon becomes drudgery.

The God we serve places duties upon us, yet is personally involved in our labors.

   Colossians 1:29

Colossians 1:29 KJV 1900

29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.

III. God is a Triunity.

Christianity has traditionally taught the doctrine of the Trinity .

The word “Triunity,” however, is a better expression. Triunity means that there is one

God who eternally exists as three persons : the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

This suggests:

A. The unity of the Godhead

Unlike the ancient pagans, who believed in many gods ( polytheism ), the Bible clearly teaches that there is only one God ( monotheism ).

   Deuteronomy 6:4

Deuteronomy 6:4 KJV 1900

4 Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord:

B. The diversity of the Godhead

Without ceasing to be a unity, God exists as three persons.

Each of these persons is fully and equally God.

[“Diversity” means difference or distinction. That is, there is a distinction between the members of the trinity.

God the Father is not the same person as God the Son.

The members of the Trinity are distinct, co-equal individuals, co-equal in essence but differing in function.]

The doctrine of the Triunity illustrates the incomprehensibility of God: He exists and may be truly known, but He can never be fully known.

[“Incomprehensible” means “not able to be fully understood.”

Agnostics say that one can’t know anything about God.

We don’t know everything about God, but we do know many things, and what we know is true.]

Learning to Live It

1. As you talk about your relationship with God to a family member, he smiles and says, “Though we might call it by different names  like ‘God,’ we are all part of the universal cosmic energy.”

How would you show him that God is not just an energy?

by directing him to passages which show God to be a person

God has all the characteristics of a person. An energy or force cannot do the things God does.

2. You walk into a room in which there is an individual and some furniture.

Are you more inclined to speak to the individual or to the furniture? Why?

the individual; because he or she is a person like you.

What implications does this have for prayer?

Since God is a person, we can and ought to talk to Him.

We should talk to God because, as a person, He can respond.

Prayer would be meaningless/impossible if God were just a power.

3. A co worker brings you a pamphlet one day and asks you to discuss its contents.

It offers the following explanation of the doctrine of the Triunity:

The Bible calls God by the names Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

That does not mean that He is three persons.

Actually, these are the titles of three roles that He has filled.

This can be understood in the same way that a man can say, “I am a father, son, and husband.”

A man can truly be all three, but he is still a single person.

So it is with God.

What would you say to your co worker?

Show him a passage (such as Matthew 3:16-17) in which all three persons of the Godhead are mentioned independently of one another.

Matthew 3:16–17 KJV 1900

16 And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and lighting upon him: 17 And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.

The above idea is called modalism–one God functions as different modes at different times.

Refutation: All three members of the Godhead show up simultaneously, which would be impossible if the trinity was not true.

We may not ever fully understand the doctrine of the Trinity.

Yet the Bible clearly teaches the that the Trinity is a fact.

We have to submit our own logic to the teaching of Scripture.

The Greatness of God

Learning Together

God’s character qualities are commonly called His attributes .

[An attribute is a basic quality or description. ]

They are the properties that make God who He is.

Some theologians logically divide the attributes of God into two categories: the attributes of His greatness and the attributes of His goodness .

This lesson deals with God’s attributes of greatness.

These are character qualities that belong to God alone; they cannot be shared with mankind.

God’s primary attribute of greatness is His infinity .

This word is hard for us to grasp because we are human and, thus, limited.

When we say that God is infinite, we mean that He has no external limitations.

In other words, there is nothing outside of Himself that determines who He is and what He does .

Only created objects and beings have external limitations.

God’s attributes of greatness are simply expressions of His infinity.

Three of these attributes that are absolutely necessary to further studies:

1. God is infinite in power .

2. God is infinite in knowledge .

3. God is infinite in authority .

I. God is Infinite in Power.

The fact that God is unlimited in power is the attribute called omnipotence (from omni, meaning “ all ,” and potent,

meaning “ powerful “). God’s omnipotence is displayed in several ways:

A. Creation most clearly displays God’s omnipotence.

   Psalm 33:6 9

Psalm 33:6 KJV 1900

6 By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; And all the host of them by the breath of his mouth.

[C.f. also Jer 32:17]

Jeremiah 32:17 KJV 1900

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:

Note: God created the universe out of nothing ( ex nihilo ), not from preexisting materials.

[How is this different from when we create something?

We use existing materials.

God didn’t.

Einstein proved the interchangablility of energy and matter (E=MC2).

Micah 2 KJV 1900

1 Woe to them that devise iniquity, and work evil upon their beds! When the morning is light, they practise it, Because it is in the power of their hand. 2 And they covet fields, and take them by violence; And houses, and take them away: So they oppress a man and his house, Even a man and his heritage. 3 Therefore thus saith the Lord; Behold, against this family do I devise an evil, From which ye shall not remove your necks; Neither shall ye go haughtily: For this time is evil. 4 In that day shall one take up a parable against you, And lament with a doleful lamentation, And say, We be utterly spoiled: He hath changed the portion of my people: How hath he removed it from me! Turning away he hath divided our fields. 5 Therefore thou shalt have none that shall cast a cord by lot In the congregation of the Lord. 6 Prophesy ye not, say they to them that prophesy: They shall not prophesy to them, that they shall not take shame. 7 O thou that art named the house of Jacob, Is the spirit of the Lord straitened? Are these his doings? Do not my words do good to him that walketh uprightly? 8 Even of late my people is risen up as an enemy: Ye pull off the robe with the garment From them that pass by securely as men averse from war. 9 The women of my people have ye cast out from their pleasant houses; From their children have ye taken away my glory for ever. 10 Arise ye, and depart; for this is not your rest: Because it is polluted, it shall destroy you, even with a sore destruction. 11 If a man walking in the spirit and falsehood do lie, saying, I will prophesy unto thee of wine and of strong drink; He shall even be the prophet of this people. 12 I will surely assemble, O Jacob, all of thee; I will surely gather the remnant of Israel; I will put them together as the sheep of Bozrah, As the flock in the midst of their fold: They shall make great noise by reason of the multitude of men. 13 The breaker is come up before them: They have broken up, and have passed through the gate, and are gone out by it: And their king shall pass before them, And the Lord on the head of them.

If the whole universe was created by God, what does this say about God’s power/energy?

It’s immense.

See also Col 1:16-17: God’s power keeps things together. ]

Colossians 1:16–17 KJV 1900

16 For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him: 17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

B. God’s control of history displays His omnipotence.

[History is going somewhere.

That is, what happens is not random, chance occurrence.

God rules in world events.

Things happen because God has decreed that they will happen.]

One way God controls history is by governing the decisions of world leaders.

– Proverbs 21:1

Proverbs 21:1 KJV 1900

1 The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: He turneth it whithersoever he will.

Revelation 17:17

Revelation 17:17 KJV 1900

17 For God hath put in their hearts to fulfil his will, and to agree, and give their kingdom unto the beast, until the words of God shall be fulfilled.

[Note that these verses show that God can and does control the thoughts of people. ]

C. The outworking of God’s plan for individuals displays His omnipotence.

Job questioned the justice of God because of the difficulties he had endured.

In response, God revealed His greatness to Job (Job 38 41). Notice Job’s response:

Job 38:41 KJV 1900

41 Who provideth for the raven his food? When his young ones cry unto God, They wander for lack of meat.

I know that you can do all things; no plan of yours can be thwarted. – Job 42:2

Job 42:2 KJV 1900

2 I know that thou canst do every thing, And that no thought can be withholden from thee.

It is often said, “God can do anything.”

This is not technically correct.

For example, God cannot lie (Titus 1:2).

Titus 1:2 KJV 1900

2 In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;

Rather, omnipotence means that God can do anything consistent with His character .

[One’s activities are generally dictated by one’s nature.

E.g., you don’t expect a dog to act like a cat.

E.g., there are some things that girls like (such as pretty dresses) that do not interest boys.

You would not expect a boy to be interested in or drawn toward certain things, and same with girls.

In a similar way, God is “limited” by the kind of person He is.

His nature determines what He will do.]

II. God is Infinite in Knowledge.

The fact that God is without limits in knowledge is referred to as His omniscience (from omni, meaning “ all ,” and science, meaning “ knowledge “).

For God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything.   1 John 3:20

1 John 3:20 KJV 1900

20 For if our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things.

[C.f. also John 21:17]

John 21:17 KJV 1900

17 He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me? Peter was grieved because he said unto him the third time, Lovest thou me? And he said unto him, Lord, thou knowest all things; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed my sheep.

What does this imply?

A. God possesses complete knowledge of the universe .

He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name.   Psalm 147:4

Psalm 147:4 KJV 1900

4 He telleth the number of the stars; He calleth them all by their names.

Hebrews 4:13

Hebrews 4:13 KJV 1900

13 Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

[There is nothing that happens in the universe that is outside the knowledge and control of God.]

B. God possesses knowledge of the smallest details of life.

And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered.   Matthew 10:30

Matthew 10:30 KJV 1900

30 But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.

[C.f. also Psm 139:1-4]

Psalm 139:1–4 KJV 1900

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.

C. God possesses knowledge of possible events . He knows everything that might have been.

Matthew 11:21

Matthew 11:21 KJV 1900

21 Woe unto thee, Chorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works, which were done in you, had been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes.

[C.f. also 1 Sam 23:10-13]

1 Samuel 23:10–13 KJV 1900

10 Then said David, O Lord God of Israel, thy servant hath certainly heard that Saul seeketh to come to Keilah, to destroy the city for my sake. 11 Will the men of Keilah deliver me up into his hand? will Saul come down, as thy servant hath heard? O Lord God of Israel, I beseech thee, tell thy servant. And the Lord said, He will come down. 12 Then said David, Will the men of Keilah deliver me and my men into the hand of Saul? And the Lord said, They will deliver thee up. 13 Then David and his men, which were about six hundred, arose and departed out of Keilah, and went whithersoever they could go. And it was told Saul that David was escaped from Keilah; and he forbare to go forth.

These three points show that God has always known all things, past , present, and future , at the same time.

God has never learned anything.

[Just think: God knew and planned from eternity past that we would all be here doing this right now.

God is never surprised.

He never wonders why things happen.

Contra the “openness of God” idea which asserts that God really doesn’t know what’s going to happen because men have a totally free will. ]

D. God’s knowledge is active , not passive .

This means that God’s knowledge of an event is not gained through observation , but through involvement.

He knows an event because He planned it and participates in it.

The biblical word for this active aspect of God’s knowledge is “ foreknowledge.”

   Matthew 10:29

Matthew 10:29 KJV 1900

29 Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father.

Notice this prayer of Peter and John:

.   Acts 4:27 28

Acts 4:27 KJV 1900

27 For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together,

[“Foreknowledge” is not simply “knowledge ahead of time.”

Notice the above verse. What happened happened because God chose that it should be that way.

God does not look into the future, see what will happen, and then react based on what He sees. God’s foreknowledge is His active choice of a particular course of action.

See Rom 11:2. “Foreknew” means “chose.”]

Romans 11:2 KJV 1900

2 God hath not cast away his people which he foreknew. Wot ye not what the scripture saith of Elias? how he maketh intercession to God against Israel, saying,

III. God is Infinite in Authority.

The fact that God’s authority over all creation is without limits is referred to as His sovereignty .

[“Sovereignty” basically means “control.” “Sove” = all, “reign” = to rule.

A king is called a sovereign, so when you think of sovereignty, think of a king being in charge or in control.]

What does the sovereignty of God imply?

A. God is in control of all things .

   Romans 8:28

Romans 8:28 KJV 1900

28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

[C.f. also 1 Chron 29:11-12; Ps 22:28, 103:19]

1 Chronicles 29:11–12 KJV 1900

11 Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O Lord, and thou art exalted as head above all. 12 Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.

Psalm 22:28 KJV 1900

28 For the kingdom is the Lord’s: And he is the governor among the nations.

Psalm 103:19 KJV 1900

19 The Lord hath prepared his throne in the heavens; And his kingdom ruleth over all.

B. God is never dependent on man.

  Romans 11:33- 36

Romans 11:33–36 KJV 1900

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.

God’s sovereignty means that He is totally independent in all His decisions.

He is never influenced or manipulated by His creation.

He never depends on the actions of men to determine His actions.

[What implications does this have for prayer?

It means that we don’t change God’s mind when we pray.

God does what He planned on doing.

He often accomplishes that plan in conjunction with our prayers.

So what’s wrong with the statement “Prayer moves the hand that moves the universe”?

It conveys the idea that God’s actions are determined by people.

God may fulfill His purposes in conjunction with our prayers, but He does not depend on them to act.]

C. God does whatever pleases Him.

   Isaiah 46:9-10

Isaiah 46:9–10 KJV 1900

9 Remember the former things of old: For I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, 10 Declaring the end from the beginning, And from ancient times the things that are not yet done, Saying, My counsel shall stand, And I will do all my pleasure:

[C.f. also Ps 115:3; Dan 4:35]

Psalm 115:3 KJV 1900

3 But our God is in the heavens: He hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.

Daniel 4:35 KJV 1900

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?

D. Whatever God does is always right .

  Romans 9:20 21

Romans 9:20 KJV 1900

20 Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to him that formed it, Why hast thou made me thus?

God’s sovereignty means that all that He does is right .

His actions are not right because they conform to a standard of right and wrong .

He is the standard of right and wrong.

[If the above is true, and if God is in charge of all that is done in the universe, why does it seem that so much evil abounds? 2 reasons (there are others):

The world is a fallen, sin-cursed place (cf. Gen 3).

Genesis 3 KJV 1900

1 Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the Lord God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? 2 And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: 3 But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die. 4 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die: 5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil. 6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. 7 And the eyes of them both were opened, and they knew that they were naked; and they sewed fig leaves together, and made themselves aprons. 8 And they heard the voice of the Lord God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden. 9 And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou? 10 And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked; and I hid myself. 11 And he said, Who told thee that thou wast naked? Hast thou eaten of the tree, whereof I commanded thee that thou shouldest not eat? 12 And the man said, The woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat. 13 And the Lord God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. 14 And the Lord God said unto the serpent, Because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: 15 And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel. 16 Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee. 17 And unto Adam he said, Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying, Thou shalt not eat of it: cursed is the ground for thy sake; in sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life; 18 Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field; 19 In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken: for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return. 20 And Adam called his wife’s name Eve; because she was the mother of all living. 21 Unto Adam also and to his wife did the Lord God make coats of skins, and clothed them. 22 And the Lord God said, Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil: and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever: 23 Therefore the Lord God sent him forth from the garden of Eden, to till the ground from whence he was taken. 24 So he drove out the man; and he placed at the east of the garden of Eden Cherubims, and a flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way of the tree of life.

Sin/the curse ruins things and brings about much of the wrong in the world.

2. Men often suffer the consequences of their own evil or stupid decisions/actions.

E.g., robing a bank leads to jail time. Gal 6:7-8.

Galatians 6:7–8 KJV 1900

7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. 8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

The Bible teaches the seemingly contradictory truth that God is sovereign, yet man is responsible.

It would seem that if God is in control of all events, man could not be held responsible for his actions, for he is only doing what God makes him do.

Yet the Bible clearly teaches that man is responsible for his actions and that God is not the author of sin.

C.H. Spurgeon writes: “Shall we never be able to drive into men’s minds

the truth that predestination and free agency are both facts? Men sin as

freely as birds fly in the air, and they are altogether responsible for

their sin; and yet everything is ordained and foreseen of God. The

fore-ordination of God in no degree interferes with the responsibility of

man. I have often been asked by persons to reconcile the two truths. My

only reply is – They need no reconciliation, for they never fell out.

why should I try to reconcile two friends?” (C.H. Spurgeon, Metropolitan

Tabernacle Pulpit, Vol.33, Banner of Truth Trust, 1969 reprint, pp

198-199.)]

Recap & Review

In this lesson, we have learned:

1. God is omnipotent, or all-powerful. His power is unlimited.

2. God is omniscient, or all-knowing. His knowledge is unlimited.

3. God is sovereign. His authority is unlimited.

Learning to Live It

1. In Lesson One, we learned that God is a person; therefore, we can and should pray.

Suppose you have an unsaved friend who asks you to go fishing nextWeek.

It is just the opportunity you have been looking for  a full day alone to discuss his relationship with God. So, you pray that the Lord will grant good weather next Week so you can have this opportunity. What does God have to do to answer your prayer?

arrange the world’s weather, arrange the friend’s schedule, allow you to make it safely to the lake, make an opportunity to naturally present the gospel, etc.

Therefore, prayer presupposes which attribute of God discussed in this lesson?

His omnipotence (and sovereignty)

Suppose Thursday comes and it rains all day. What might you conclude about your prayer?

that it was not in accordance with God’s sovereign will.

You could conclude that God did not answer, or that He doesn’t care, etc.

You should conclude that God is still in control of the situation. Your plan did not fit the divine plan.

2. Suppose some tragedy strikes your family. Is God in control of the situation? yes

Is it possible you may not understand why God allowed this to occur?

Yes, in fact it is very likely you won’t totally understand why many things happen.

What should be your response if you don’t understand why?

Trust Him. Remember, He is too loving to be unkind and too wise to make mistakes. Also, remember that God is able to do anything, and that He is in control of the situation. Trust that God is good, wise, and loving, and that there is a reason/purpose for the situation.

The Greatness of God and the Christian Life

Previously we described three of the attributes, or character qualities, of God’s greatness.

God is great because He is infinite , or without external limitations.

Mankind, however, is completely limited and, thus, finite .

Theologians call this fundamental difference between God and man the Creator / creature distinction.

[God’s only limitations are his own character and will.

He won’t do anything inconsistent with Himself.] God’s character determines the relationship between Himself and man.

This lesson describes that relationship from the perspective of the three attributes of God’s greatness discussed (omnipotence, omniscience, and sovereignty).

[Review these terms.]

[So this lesson looks at how these facts matter to us practically speaking. ]

I. God’s Omnipotence and the Christian Life

A. The significance of God’s omnipotence to mankind in general

The omnipotence of God renders mankind totally dependent on Him. God is the ultimate source of everything needed by both believer and unbeliever.

He has structured the specific details of our lives so that we must rely on Him for all things.

This is true whether one admits it or not.

1. Mankind is dependent on God’s power for the preservation of the physical universe .

   Hebrews 1:3

Hebrews 1:3 KJV 1900

3 Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high;

– Colossians 1:17

Colossians 1:17 KJV 1900

17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

[The universe exists and is kept working by God’s power.

If God withdrew His power, all things would immediately fly apart.

C.f. Col 1.17.] 2. Mankind is dependent on God’s power for the preservation of his life . Job 34:14 15

Colossians 1:17 KJV 1900

17 And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.

Job 34:14 KJV 1900

14 If he set his heart upon man, If he gather unto himself his spirit and his breath;

3. Mankind is dependent on God’s power for provision of daily needs.

  Matthew 5:45

Matthew 5:45 KJV 1900

45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.

– Matthew 6:11

Matthew 6:11 KJV 1900

11 Give us this day our daily bread.

B. The significance of God’s omnipotence to the Christian in particular

The Christian is dependent on God’s power for the preservation of his salvation .

The security of the believer depends upon God’s power, not his own.

This is why it is impossible for one to lose his salvation.   1 Peter 1:3- 5

1 Peter 1:3–5 KJV 1900

3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4 To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, 5 Who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

[God is the one who keeps the Christian saved. C.f. John 10:28-29.

John 10:28–29 KJV 1900

28 And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. 29 My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand.

Good works do not keep you saved.]

2. The Christian is dependent on God’s power for the strength to face the circumstances of life.

   Isaiah 40:29 31

Isaiah 40:29 KJV 1900

29 He giveth power to the faint; And to them that have no might he increaseth strength.

[“Those who hope in the LORD” are believers.

C.f. also 1 Cor 10:13]

1 Corinthians 10:13 KJV 1900

13 There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.

3. The Christian is dependent on God’s

   Philippians 2:12 13

Philippians 2:12 KJV 1900

12 Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.

[Both salvation and sanctification are by grace. Both are gifts from God.]

II. God’s Omniscience and the Christian Life

A. The significance of God’s omniscience to mankind in general

The omniscience of God renders mankind totally accountable to Him.

Accountability means giving an answer for one’s actions.

The Bible teaches that all men will one day give an account to God.

1. Believers will give an account of their actions at the Judgment Seat of Christ .

   2 Corinthians 5:10

2 Corinthians 5:10 KJV 1900

10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.

2. Unbelievers will give an account of their actions at the Great White Throne Judgment .   Revelation 20:12

Revelation 20:12 KJV 1900

12 And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.

The fact of our accountability to God assumes He has complete knowledge of all of our actions.

   Hosea 7:2

Hosea 7:2 KJV 1900

2 And they consider not in their hearts That I remember all their wickedness: Now their own doings have beset them about; They are before my face.

Psalm 139:1 4

Psalm 139:1 KJV 1900

1 O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me.

[C.f. also Heb 4:13 — all things are “naked and open” to God.]

Hebrews 4:13 KJV 1900

13 Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do.

B. The significance of God’s omniscience to the Christian in particular

The Christian’s understanding of his accountability to the omniscient God serves as a motivation to forsake sinful living and to pursue righteous living .

   Psalm 139:23 24

Psalm 139:23 KJV 1900

23 Search me, O God, and know my heart: Try me, and know my thoughts:

III. God’s Sovereignty and the Christian Life

A. The significance of God’s sovereignty to mankind in general

The sovereignty of God renders mankind totally responsible to Him.

Previously established the fact that God has absolute authority over all things. God’s exercise of this authority is called His sovereignty. Many resist this doctrine because it makes mankind’s responsibility to God unquestionable. Mankind’s responsibility to God means that he is obligated to think and act in a certain way.

This obligation cannot be separated from his accountability discussed above.

It is precisely because a person is required to live a certain way that he will be called upon to account for his actions.

[So man is accountable because he is responsible.

God has told us to do certain things in a certain way.

Therefore, we are accountable to do so. E.g., you are given the responsibility to take out the trash and are held accountable for if you do it, how well you do it, etc.]

1. Mankind is responsible to God because God has established standards of behavior .

When God gave the Ten Commandments, He began by identifying Himself as “the LORD your God” (Exodus 20:2).

Exodus 20:2 KJV 1900

2 I am the Lord thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.

He did this to emphasize the fact that He is the source of all standards of right and wrong.

[Today, most people accept the philosophy called relativism: there are no absolutes, no true right or wrong.

Right and wrong depends on the individual and the circumstance, not on a standard or a law.

What consequence does this have?

Changing standards of right and wrong, total independence of “ethical” behavior.

Further, if there is no God, there can be no true standard/law of right or wrong.]

2. Mankind is responsible to God because God has sovereignly planned all of man’s free choices .

   Exodus 4:21

Exodus 4:21 KJV 1900

21 And the Lord said unto Moses, When thou goest to return into Egypt, see that thou do all those wonders before Pharaoh, which I have put in thine hand: but I will harden his heart, that he shall not let the people go.

Exodus 8:15

Exodus 8:15 KJV 1900

15 But when Pharaoh saw that there was respite, he hardened his heart, and hearkened not unto them; as the Lord had said.

Romans 9:17

Romans 9:17 KJV 1900

17 For the scripture saith unto Pharaoh, Even for this same purpose have I raised thee up, that I might shew my power in thee, and that my name might be declared throughout all the earth.

[Note that in the first verse, God hardens Pharaoh’s heart.

In the next verse, Pharaoh hardens his own heart, and the last verse shows that God is in control of Pharaoh’s actions.

Pharaoh did what he wanted to do, and what he wanted was God’s plan.

To Pharaoh, it seemed as if he was acting freely, but in reality, he was doing what God planned for him to do.

It’s similar for us.

From our perspective, our choices are free, but in reality, God has planned our activities and is in control of what we do.]

Although God never forces us to choose contrary to our will, He has planned the circumstances in which we exercise our will.

Therefore, God has determined that individuals will exercise their wills at a particular place and at a particular time for a particular purpose.

See also Genesis 50:20.

Genesis 50:20 KJV 1900

20 But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive.

[God renders it certain that we will always “freely” choose that which he has previously ordained.

This is part of the mystery/paradox between divine sovereignty and human freedom.]

B. The significance of God’s sovereignty to the Christian in particular

1. The Christian’s understanding that he is responsible to the sovereign God gives him a God centered purpose in life.

.   1 Corinthians 10:31

1 Corinthians 10:31 KJV 1900

31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.

This means that in every situation in life, whether large or small, the believer will ask,

“What would God want me to do?”

2. The Christian’s understanding that God is sovereign gives him peace and confidence .

a. The believer can serve God without worry , knowing that everything is under God’s control.

b. The believer can be confident, knowing that God has planned every situation he faces for his good .

Romans 8:28

Romans 8:28 KJV 1900

28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Recap & Review

Here , we have learned:

Because God is omnipotent, we are dependent on Him for everything. Because God is omniscient, we are accountable to Him for our actions.

Because God is sovereign, we are responsible to Him for our actions.

Learning to Live It

Read the following excerpt from a sermon by Charles H. Spurgeon:

“There is no attribute more comforting to His children than that of God’s Sovereignty.

Under the most adverse circumstances, in the most severe trials, they believe that Sovereignty has ordained their afflictions, that Sovereignty overrules them, and that Sovereignty will sanctify them all.

There is nothing for which the children ought more earnestly to contend than the doctrine of their Master over all creation  the Kingship of God over all the works of His own hands  the Throne of God and His right to sit upon that Throne.

On the other hand, there is no doctrine more hated by worldlings . . . [than] the Sovereignty of the infinite Jehovah. Men will allow God to be everywhere except on His throne.

They will allow Him to be in His workshop to fashion worlds and make stars.

They will allow Him to be in His [money house] to dispense His alms and bestow His bounties.

They will allow Him to sustain the earth and bear up the pillars thereof, or light the lamps of heaven, or rule the waves of the ever moving ocean; but when God ascends His throne, His creatures then gnash their teeth.

And we proclaim an enthroned God, and His right to do as He wills with His own, to dispose of His creatures as He thinks well, without consulting them in the matter; then it is that . . . men turn a deaf ear to us, for God on His throne is not the God they love.”

Why do you think the doctrine of God’s sovereignty is so comforting to believers?

because they know that nothing ever has or ever will happen which is outside of God’s control. It means that there is a meaning/purpose to life, and that God is in control.

Why should believers uphold this doctrine? because God would cease to be God without it; because the Bible teaches it

Why do you think people so hate this doctrine? because it puts God on the throne, not man. Even some believers hate the logical conclusion of God’s Sovereignty.

Some people (Arminians) think that man has a totally (or at least mostly) free will, and can either choose God or not.

We would disagree with them.

People also hate it because it seems to limit or take away man’s freedom or choice.

Further, at times it doesn’t seem to be true experientially.

That is, it often seems that occurrences (like storms and disasters) are random and pointless, that our choices are indeed free, etc.

It’s also hard to understand how God can be sovereign and still hold man accountable.