The undeniable existence of God is evident both in the intricacies of creation and the moral compass embedded within man’s conscience. The Bible, recognizing this conspicuous reality, refers to the atheist as a “fool” (Psalm 14:1). Remarkably, the biblical narrative doesn’t embark on proving God’s existence; it presupposes it from the very onset (Genesis 1:1). Instead, the Bible unfolds the tapestry of God’s nature, character, and divine work.
Who is God? – The Definition
Grasping a correct understanding of God holds paramount importance, as misconceptions lead to idolatry. Psalm 50:21 sternly reproves the misguided with the accusation, “You thought I was altogether like you.” A succinct definition emerges: God is “the Supreme Being; the Creator and Ruler of all that is; the Self-existent One who is perfect in power, goodness, and wisdom.”
Who is God? – His Nature
God, in His mercy, reveals facets of His nature. He is spirit, intangible in His essence (John 4:24). God is a unified triune being—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 3:16-17). His attributes include infinitude (1 Timothy 1:17), incomparability (2 Samuel 7:22), and immutability (Malachi 3:6). God’s omnipresence (Psalm 139:7-12), omniscience (Psalm 147:5; Isaiah 40:28), and omnipotence (Ephesians 1; Revelation 19:6) mark His divine nature.
Who is God? – His Character
Biblical revelations unveil God’s character. He is just (Acts 17:31), loving (Ephesians 2:4-5), truthful (John 14:6), and holy (1 John 1:5). Compassion (2 Corinthians 1:3), mercy (Romans 9:15), and grace (Romans 5:17) emanate from His essence. God, while judging sin (Psalm 5:5), extends the offer of forgiveness (Psalm 130:4).
Who is God? – His Work
Understanding God necessitates an exploration of His works, for His actions flow from His being. A concise list of His works includes creation (Genesis 1:1; Isaiah 42:5), sustaining the world (Colossians 1:17), executing an eternal plan (Ephesians 1:11) involving redemption from sin’s curse (Galatians 3:13-14), drawing people to Christ (John 6:44), disciplining His children (Hebrews 12:6), and future judgment (Revelation 20:11-15).
Who is God? – A Relationship with Him
In the incarnation of the Son (John 1:14), God bridges the gap between divinity and humanity. The Son of God becomes the Son of Man, the pivotal “bridge” between God and mankind (John 14:6; 1 Timothy 2:5). Only through the Son do forgiveness of sins (Ephesians 1:7), reconciliation with God (John 15:15; Romans 5:10), and eternal salvation (2 Timothy 2:10) become attainable. Colossians 2:9 encapsulates this truth: “For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form.” To truly know God, we need only look to Jesus.
In essence, the Bible serves not as a philosophical treatise proving God’s existence but as a profound revelation, unraveling the depths of God’s being and beckoning humanity into a transformative relationship with the Divine.
