The doctrine of God is a central element of Christianity, and it is one of the key topics in theological discussions and teachings.
The Bible, the foundational text of Christianity, presents God as one, eternal, and the creator of everything.
This article delves into these aspects of the doctrine of God, examining how scholars have interpreted and applied the scriptural basis for this understanding throughout Christian history.
The Doctrine of God
We learn about God through His revelation in the Bible. Even if we had no Bible, however, we have enough knowledge of God to make everyone accountable to Him.
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:
Romans 1:20
God is One
The concept of God being one is a core tenet of Christianity, as taught in the Bible. The Bible emphasizes that there is only one true God, and that He is the ultimate reality. Passages such as Deuteronomy 6:4 reflect this doctrine, stating, “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.”
In Christianity, believers also know monotheism as the belief in the oneness of God. This belief is further supported by passages such as Isaiah 43:10-11, which states,
“You are my witnesses,” declares the LORD, “and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me.”
Isaiah 43:10-11
God is Eternal
The Bible teaches God is eternal, without beginning or end. Psalm 90:2 states, “Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the entire world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.”
Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the entire world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.
Psalm 90:2
This verse emphasizes that God is not confined by time or space, but He exists outside of them.
Passages such as Revelation 1:8 also reflect the concept of God’s eternality, proclaiming, “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”
God is the Creator of Everything
The Bible teaches God as the creator of everything, both visible and invisible. Genesis 1:1 states,
In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.
Genesis 1:1
This verse sets the stage for the entire creation account, which describes God’s careful and purposeful creation of the world and all its inhabitants.
Passages such as Colossians 1:16 also reflect the concept of God as the creator, stating,
For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities.
Colossians1;16
God is a Trinity
God manifests Himself in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost.
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
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, [be] with you all. Amen.
2 Corinthians 13:14
We will discuss the doctrine of the Trinity in a separate message.
Divine Providence
One can find another interpretation of the doctrine of God in the concept of divine providence. This idea, which is also rooted in scripture, teaches that God is actively involved in the world and that He is working out His purposes for creation. Many Christians believe that God’s providential care extends to all aspects of life, from the smallest details to the grandest events.
Divine providence refers to God’s active involvement in the affairs of the world and in the lives of individuals. The Bible contains many verses that illustrate the concept of divine providence, showing how God guides, protects, and provides for His people. Here are a few examples:
- Psalm 121:1-2: “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. 2 My help [cometh] from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.”
- Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. 6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
- Isaiah 41:10: “Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”
- Romans 8:28: “We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to [his] purpose.”
- Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.”
These verses emphasize God’s care and involvement in our lives, illustrating the concept of divine providence. They offer comfort and assurance to believers, reminding them that God is in control and that He works in mysterious ways to bring about His purposes.
Interpretations and Applications
Throughout Christian history, theologians have interpreted and applied the doctrine of God as one, eternal, and the creator of everything in various ways. Different theological traditions have emphasized different aspects of this doctrine, leading to diverse understandings and applications.
Conclusion
The doctrine of God as one, eternal, and the creator of everything is a fundamental aspect of Christian belief. Christians ground this belief in scripture and interpret and apply it in various ways throughout history. Whether one is a theologian, a scholar, or simply a believer, understanding and exploring this doctrine is a critical part of deepening one’s knowledge and appreciation of the Christian faith.
Next, read my message on the names of God.
