Attributes of God
by Bryan Carlson
Eternal—self-existent—This is different then self-created. It is not possible for anything or anyone to create itself. God has always been existent. There has never been a time that God has not been.
Creator—God, in His infinite wisdom, decided to create the earth and everything in it and everyone who has ever lived on the earth.
Genesis 1:1
Psalm 139:13-14
Sovereign—Chief or highest, supreme in power, superior in position to all others. As an eternal God and as the creator of all that is and in power over all that is, this sets Him apart from all others. God is in a class all by Himself.
(1 Chr 29:11) ""Thine, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the victory and the majesty, indeed everything that is in the heavens and the earth; Thine is the dominion, O LORD, and Thou dost exalt Thyself as head over all."
Holy—Untouched and unstained by evil in the world; absolutely pure and perfect.
(Psa 99:9) "Exalt the LORD our God, And worship at His holy hill; For holy is the LORD our God."
The fact that God is holy is the attribute of God that separates us from Him. Ever since the time that Adam and Eve chose to sin in the garden, and since we are all sinners as well, mankind and God have been separated. God cannot have sin anywhere in His presence. God’s holiness and our utter sinfulness it what makes it completely impossible for us to have a relationship with God on our own standing.
Rom. 3:23
(Rom 3:10-12) "as it is written, "THERE IS NONE RIGHTEOUS, NOT EVEN ONE; {11} THERE IS NONE WHO UNDERSTANDS, THERE IS NONE WHO SEEKS FOR GOD; {12} ALL HAVE TURNED ASIDE, TOGETHER THEY HAVE BECOME USELESS; THERE IS NONE WHO DOES GOOD, THERE IS NOT EVEN ONE.""
Righteous and Just—Designates the perfect agreement between God’s nature and His acts. Justice is the way that God legislates His righteousness. Since God is holy, it is only just that He would punish those who choose to reject Him. Many people have a hard time believing in Hell—they don’t believe a loving God would allow anyone to burn in the fire of Hell for all eternity. It would violate God’s rightness and justice if it were any other way. It is our own unrighteousness that bring judgment on ourselves. We could ask ourselves the question: Why did God create man? Was it so He could send them to hell and be separated from them forever. No—God created man so that we could have a relationship with Him. Man chose to separate himself from God when we chose to sin.
(Psa 89:14a) "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Thy throne;"
Loving and Merciful—We all deserve eternal separation from God, but luckily for us God is also Loving and Merciful—God loves us enough that He extends His mercy to us—even though we are undeserving. God’s mercy is the expression of His love and mercy to those who have opposed His will.
John 3:16
1 John 1:9
Kind
(Psa 117:2a) "For His lovingkindness is great toward us.”
(Titus 3:3-7) “But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit.”
Truth—God is the only God and, thus, the only true God.
(Psa 117:2b) "And the truth of the LORD is everlasting. Praise the LORD!"
Many say there are many forms of truth and many ways to get to God. God is the compass of our lives. He sees everything clearly and guides and directs us perfectly. We must use God’s measuring stick of truth as we live our lives. God also provided the only truth in sending Jesus to this earth.
John 14:6: “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but by Me.”
Immutable—God never changes.
(Mal 3:6a) ""For I, the LORD, do not change;"
We live in a world that is always changing—everything around us is always changing; we are always changing. God is the constant in our lives. He is the compass. Once we come into a relationship with God, it is comforting for us to know that our lives now have direction and meaning.
Omniscient (Ps. 139:1-6), Omnipresent (7-12), and Omnipotent (13-18)—God knows all things, is present everywhere, and has enough power to accomplish absolutely anything.
The Wrath, Mercy, Holiness, Omnipotence, Omniscience, and Omnipresence of God by Bryan Carlson
“The attributes of God are those distinguishable characteristics or qualities of the nature of God that are inseparable from the essence of being God (nature/essence refers to al that God is whether material or immaterial)” (Faith notes 97)
The wrath of God refers to God's just and holy anger towards sin and evil. This wrath is rooted in God's holiness and love, as He cannot tolerate sin and its destructive effects on individuals and the world. God's wrath is expressed both in this life, through natural consequences and the consequences of our choices, as well as in eternity, through eternal judgment. His wrath has always been against those who choose to reject him as Savior. To the Israelites in the Old Testament God says to Moses in Exodus 32:9-10: “’I have seen this people, and behold, it is a stiff-necked people. Now therefore let me alone, that my wrath may burn hot against them and I may consume them, in order that I may make a great nation of you.’” And to us under the New Covenant: “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who by their unrighteousness suppress the truth” (Romans 1:18).
In the context of life and Biblical Counseling, the doctrine of the wrath of God has several practical implications. First, it helps us to understand the gravity of sin and its consequences. “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. (Colossians 3:1-10). Understanding that our sin evokes God’s wrath can motivate us to turn from sin and towards God and come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ, as we will face the wrath of God if we do not repent and believe. God's wrath was satisfied through Jesus' sacrifice. According to Romans 3:23-25, all of us have sinned and fall short of God's glory, but through faith in Jesus Christ, we can be justified and redeemed. Jesus’ "sacrifice of atonement" underscores the idea that his death served as a means of appeasing God's wrath toward sin. We also see this in 1 John 4:10 which reminds us “that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” Jesus' sacrifice was an expression of God's love for humanity, and that through his death, he provided a way for us to be reconciled to God. “Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him!” (Romans 5:9). In order to satisfy God’s righteous wrath toward mankind, Jesus humbled Himself by taking the sin of mankind upon himself and voluntarily dying a terrible, painful death on the cross (Phil. 2:8). This gives us great hope but also a stern warning to not reject so great a salvation. “The one who believes in the Son has eternal life; but the one who does not obey the Son will not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him.” (John 3:36).
Additionally, the doctrine of the wrath of God can also provide a context for understanding and addressing certain aspects of human suffering and affliction. While God's wrath is not always the direct cause of suffering, it can be the indirect result of living in a fallen and sinful world. Understanding the wrath of God can help individuals see their struggles and hardships in a larger context, and it can provide comfort and hope in the midst of suffering.
The mercy of God refers to God's compassionate and gracious attitude towards individuals who are separated from Him. This attribute is closely related to God's love, as it expresses His willingness to forgive, help, and restore those who turn to Him. Mercy is often described as God not giving people what they deserve (i.e., punishment for their sin) but instead showing them compassion and grace.
In the context of life and Biblical Counseling, the doctrine of the mercy of God has several practical implications. First, it provides comfort and hope to those who are struggling with feelings of guilt, shame, and despair. Knowing that God is merciful and willing to forgive can help individuals find peace and assurance in their relationship with Him. Second, it provides motivation for individuals to extend mercy and grace to others, as they have received it themselves from God. See the parable of the unmerciful servant in Matthew 18:21-35.
Furthermore, the doctrine of the mercy of God provides a framework for understanding and addressing certain aspects of human suffering and affliction. While God's mercy does not remove suffering and hardships, it can provide comfort and hope in the midst of them. Understanding the mercy of God can help individuals see their struggles and hardships in a larger context, and it can provide a sense of purpose and meaning even in difficult circumstances. Hebrews 4:14-16 promises us that Jesus can sympathize with our weaknesses as we was “tempted in all things just as we are, yet without sin.” Therefore, mercy and grace are available to us in Christ in our times of need.
Jesus Christ, as an act of grace and mercy shed His blood to pay the penalty of our sin. We all deserve eternal separation from God, but luckily for us God is also loving and merciful—God loves us enough that He extends His mercy to us—even though we are undeserving. God’s mercy is the expression of His love and mercy to those who have opposed His will. “But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ” (Ephesians 2:4). “But when the kindness of God our Savior and His love for mankind appeared, He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:3-7). "Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead" (1 Peter 1:3). Lamentations 3:22-23: “The Lord’s acts of mercy indeed do not end, For His compassions do not fail. They are new every morning; Great is Your faithfulness.”
The holiness of God refers to God's moral perfection and complete separateness from all that is evil and sinful. God's holiness is often described as His perfect goodness, righteousness, and justice. Exodus 15:11: “Who is like you, O LORD, among the gods? Who is like you, majestic in holiness, awesome in glorious deeds, doing wonders?”
In the context of life and Biblical Counseling, the doctrine of the holiness of God has several practical implications. First, it helps individuals understand their own sinfulness and the need for salvation. Recognizing the holiness of God should lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and conviction, which can lead individuals to turn to God for forgiveness and cleansing. The fact that God is holy is an attribute of God that separates us from Him. Ever since the time that Adam and Eve chose to sin in the garden, and since we are all sinners as well (Romans 5:12), mankind and God have been separated. God cannot have sin anywhere in His presence. God’s holiness and our utter sinfulness it what makes it completely impossible for us to have a relationship with God on our own standing.
An understanding of holiness is needed to appreciate the cross and the results of God's work through the cross. The Gospels make clear that Jesus came to save His people from their sins (Matthew 1:21; Luke 1:31-35). The crucifixion is portrayed as Christ shedding His blood and giving His body for the remission of sins (Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:19-20). Faith in Christ is portrayed as acceptance of His full atonement for sin (1 John 2:2; 3:5; Rev. 5:9).
Second, it provides a standard for ethical behavior and moral decision-making. Understanding that God is holy can help individuals make decisions that honor Him and align with His character. Christians are called to holy living (1 Corinthians 1:2; 3:17). They are saints who lead godly, righteous lives. Being sanctified, or made holy, is a work of the Holy Spirit on the basis of Christ's atonement that calls for obedient submission from those who have been saved. “Christians are holy because of their calling in Christ, because of His atonement for their sins, and because of the continual ministrations of the Holy Spirit. They are holy inasmuch as they receive and submit to these saving and sanctifying agents" (Watts 85).
Additionally, as individuals grow in their relationship with God, they can learn to conform to His holiness and live in a manner that is pleasing to Him. The Holy Spirit is the agent of holiness for the Church and its leaders (Acts 1:8; 2:4; 5:32; 13:2-4). He keeps the church pure (Acts 5:1-11). He promotes holiness in its members (1 Corinthians 6:19; 1 Thessalonians 4:7). Christians are called to holy living (1 Corinthians 1:2; 3:17). Being sanctified, or made holy, is a work of the Holy Spirit on the basis of Christ's atonement that calls for obedient submission from those who have been saved. (Romans 12:1-2).
As a matter of practical application, it is never loving to leave people in their sin. “Come as you are” does not mean “stay as you are.” Many people in our society today would say intolerance is equivalent to unloving. Love is not telling people what they are wanting to hear and affirming their beliefs when they contradict the holiness and plan of God. Love is speaking truth and calling the person to repentance. 1 Peter 1:15-16: “but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, “You shall be holy, for I am holy.”
The omnipotence of God refers to God's unlimited power and ability to do all things. God's omnipotence is displayed in His ability to create the universe, sustain all things, and carry out His plans and purposes.
In the context of life and Biblical Counseling, the doctrine of the omnipotence of God has several practical implications. First, it provides comfort and hope to individuals who are facing difficult circumstances or challenges. Knowing that God is all-powerful can help individuals trust Him and find peace in the midst of their struggles. Genesis 18:14 says, "Is anything too hard for the Lord? At the appointed time I will return to you, about this time next year, and Sarah shall have a son." This passage highlights God's ability to perform miracles and do the seemingly impossible. In this case, God promised Abraham and Sarah that they would have a child in their old age, which would have been impossible without divine intervention.
Second, it provides a foundation for prayer and intercession. Recognizing that God is omnipotent can help individuals pray with confidence and trust, knowing that He is able to do far more than they can imagine. Matthew 19:26 says, "But Jesus looked at them and said, 'With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.'" This passage is spoken by Jesus Himself and emphasizes that God's power is not limited by human limitations. Even things that seem impossible to us are possible for God.
Furthermore, as individuals surrender to God's power and submit to His will, they can experience true and lasting change in their lives. Jeremiah 32:17 says, "Ah, Lord God! It is you who have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you." This passage emphasizes that God is the Creator of the universe and has the power to do anything. If He can create the universe, then surely He has the power to do anything else that is logically possible.
The omniscience of God refers to God's complete and unlimited knowledge of all things, past, present, and future. God's omniscience is often described as His perfect understanding and wisdom, and His ability to know all things.
In the context of life and Biblical Counseling, the doctrine of the omniscience of God has several practical implications. First, it provides comfort and security to individuals who are facing uncertainty and fear. Knowing that God knows all things can help individuals trust Him and find peace in the midst of their concerns. 1 John 3:20: “for whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and he knows everything.”
Second, it provides a foundation for guidance and direction. Recognizing that God knows all things can help individuals seek His wisdom and guidance, knowing that He has a perfect understanding of their needs and situation. Psalm 139:1-6 says, "O Lord, you have searched me and known me! You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down and are acquainted with all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, behold, O Lord, you know it altogether. You hem me in, behind and before, and lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high; I cannot attain it." This passage highlights God's intimate knowledge of every individual, including their thoughts, actions, and words. God knows us better than we know ourselves. Proverbs 15:3 says, "The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good." This passage emphasizes that God's knowledge is not limited by time or space. He sees and knows everything, everywhere, at all times.
Additionally, as individuals submit to God's will and seek to align their lives with His plans and purposes, they can experience true and lasting change in their lives. The omniscience of God can provide direction and purpose, as individuals seek to live in a way that honors and glorifies Him. Isaiah 46:9-10 says, "Remember the former things of old; for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose.'" This passage declares that God knows the end from the beginning, meaning that He knows the future and what will happen before it occurs. This emphasizes God's complete and infinite knowledge.
The omnipresence of God refers to the idea that God is present everywhere, at all times, and in all places. This attribute of God is a fundamental aspect of His character, and it is described in many passages of Scripture, including Psalm 139:7-12, which says, "Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me."
In the context of life and Biblical Counseling, the doctrine of the omnipresence of God has several practical implications. First, it provides comfort and security to individuals who are feeling alone or isolated. Knowing that God is present everywhere and always with them can help individuals feel a sense of connection and support, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Second, it provides a foundation for growth and development. Recognizing that God is present in all aspects of life can help individuals surrender their lives to Him and seek to live in a way that honors and glorifies Him.
Furthermore, by recognizing God's presence in all things, individuals can seek to grow in their relationship with Him, as they submit to His will and seek to align their lives with His plans and purposes. The omnipresence of God can provide a sense of accountability, as individuals recognize that He sees and knows all things, and that they will be held accountable for their actions. Jeremiah 23:23-24: “Am I a God at hand, declares the LORD, and not a God far away? Can a man hide himself in secret places so that I cannot see him? declares the LORD. Do I not fill heaven and earth?
I like this outline: Omniscient (Ps. 139:1-6), Omnipresent (7-12), and Omnipotent (13-18)—God knows all things, is present everywhere, and has enough power to accomplish absolutely anything.
Faith Biblical Counseling, ACBC Exam Track 5, 97.
John D. Watts, The Holiness of God and Christian Ethics, 77-88.
