Who and What is God? A Christian Perspective

What attributes are given to God in Christianity?

In Christianity, God is revered as the eternal, omnipotent, and omniscient creator of the universe, embodying a triune nature as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This doctrine, known as the Trinity, is foundational, describing a single divine essence shared among three distinct persons. Within this framework, several attributes are ascribed to God, each reflecting His complex and multifaceted nature. 

God’s omnipotence signifies His supreme power over all creation, enabling Him to perform acts beyond human comprehension or capability. This aligns with the doctrine of divine sovereignty, where God’s will is ultimate and unchallenged. Omniscience speaks to God’s all-encompassing knowledge, encompassing everything past, present, and future, which affirms His ability to understand and foresee all events. 

Holiness is another key attribute, denoting God’s absolute purity and separation from sin. Holiness underscores the moral perfection and sacredness of God, making Him the ultimate standard of righteousness. In tandem with holiness is God’s justice, a principle ensuring that moral righteousness is maintained, and wrongdoing is appropriately addressed. This manifests not only in divine commandments but also in the promise of final judgment, where all will be held accountable according to divine justice. 

God is also described as merciful and gracious. Mercy implies compassion and forgiveness extended to humanity despite their sins, showcasing God’s willingness to withhold deserved punishment. Grace, on the other hand, reflects unmerited favor, where blessings and salvation are offered generously and freely through faith in Jesus Christ. This characteristic is central to the Christian experience, presenting God as a benevolent and approachable deity. 

Love is perhaps the most frequently cited attribute of God, encapsulated in the declaration that “God is love” (1 John 4:8). This love is unconditional, sacrificial, and everlasting, demonstrated powerfully through the incarnation and atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. It is this divine love that forms the foundation of the Christian relationship with God, promoting a reciprocal love and devotion from believers. 

Additionally, God’s immutability asserts that He is unchanging in His nature, purpose, and promises. This attribute provides believers with assurance of God’s steadfastness and reliability. Going deeper,God’s self-existence and self-sufficiency highlight that He is independent of all His creation, existing eternally without any external source or cause. 

Finally, God’s omnipresence means He is present everywhere at all times, transcending the limitations of space and time. This spatial and temporal omnipresence assures believers that they are never apart from God’s presence and care. 

Let us summarize: 

• Omnipotence: Supreme power over all creation.
• Omniscience: Complete knowledge of past, present, and future.
• Holiness: Absolute moral purity and separation from sin.
• Justice: Ensuring moral righteousness and accountability.
• Mercy: Compassion and forgiveness towards humanity.
• Grace: Unmerited favor and blessings through faith in Christ.
• Love: Unconditional, sacrificial, and everlasting love.
• Immutability: Unchanging nature, purpose, and promises.
• Self-existence: Independent and eternal existence.
• Omnipresence: Presence everywhere at all times.

How is God described in the Old Testament?

In the Old Testament, God is depicted with a multi-faceted character that encompasses both justice and mercy, power and intimacy. He is described as the sovereign Creator of the universe, whose authority extends over all creation. Genesis 1:1 opens with, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth,” setting the tone for His supreme power and dominion. This sovereignty is further emphasized through numerous accounts, such as the parting of the Red Sea in Exodus 14 and the deliverance of the Israelites from Egyptian bondage, illustrating His control over nature and history. 

God’s justice is a dominant theme in the Old Testament. He is often portrayed as a righteous judge who demands adherence to His laws and enacts consequences for disobedience. Instances such as the Great Flood in Genesis 6-9 or the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis 19 highlight His intolerance for sin and moral corruption. These narratives underline the principle that God’s justice is unwavering and His decrees are final. 

However, God is not solely a figure of judgment. His mercy and grace are powerfully woven into the text. The story of Jonah, for example, demonstrates God’s willingness to forgive and show compassion. When the people of Nineveh repent, He spares them from destruction, showcasing His reluctance to punish and eagerness to forgive. Another poignant example is found in the covenant with Abraham in Genesis 12, where God promises to make Abraham a great nation despite his flaws, illustrating unconditional grace. 

The Old Testament also reveals God’s intimate relationship with humanity. He is depicted as a personal God who interacts with individuals, guides them, and listens to their pleas. The encounters between God and Moses, culminating in the giving of the Ten Commandments at Mount Sinai (Exodus 20), reflect this personal aspect of God’s nature. Through His covenant relationships with figures like Noah, Abraham, and David, He demonstrates a commitment to sustaining a loving and guiding presence among His people. 

Anthropomorphic language is frequently used in the Old Testament to describe God, wherein human traits are attributed to Him to make His presence and actions relatable to human understanding. Verses that speak of God’s “mighty hand” or “outstretched arm,” such as in Deuteronomy 5:15, help convey His active and powerful engagement in the world. 

In sum, the Old Testament provides a rich and complex portrayal of God, balancing His roles as a just judge and merciful redeemer, and depicting Him as both transcendent and immanent. 

Let us summarize: 

• God as the sovereign Creator and ruler of the universe
• God’s justice and intolerance for sin
• Examples of God’s mercy and grace
• God’s intimate and personal involvement with humanity
• Use of anthropomorphic language to describe God

How does the New Testament portray God?

The New Testament, with its vast landscape of teachings, parables, and narratives, portrays God through the life, ministry, and person of Jesus Christ. This portrayal marks a continuation and fulfillment of the Old Testament depictions of God but adds a layer of intimacy and personal relationship that is both revolutionary and transformative for the believer. Central to the New Testament’s theology is the concept of God as a loving Father, accessible and near to those who seek Him. This is epitomized in Jesus addressing God as “Abba, Father” (Mark 14:36), a term of endearment and closeness not commonly used in the Hebrew Scriptures. 

God’s nature in the New Testament is also powerfully revealed through the doctrine of the Trinity, a triune existence encompassing God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. This divine mystery underscores the unity and diversity within God’s singular essence. The Father is depicted as the Creator and Sovereign Lord; the Son, as the incarnate Word, who lived, died, and was resurrected to redeem humanity; and the Holy Spirit, as the ongoing presence and power of God at work within the world and the believer (Matthew 28:19; John 1:1-14; Acts 1:8). 

The New Testament constantly emphasizes God’s grace, mercy, and forgiveness, illustrated powerfully in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. It is through Christ’s actions and parables that believers witness God’s compassion and the boundless nature of divine grace. Iconic moments such as the healing of the sick, the feeding of the multitudes, and the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32) all serve to manifest God’s loving and forgiving nature. Going deeper,the New Testament showcases God’s justice and righteousness, reiterating that His grace does not nullify His demand for holiness and moral integrity (Romans 3:21-26). 

Jesus’ sacrificial death and subsequent resurrection are central to the New Testament’s portrayal of God. This event is the ultimate expression of God’s love for humanity, providing a means for reconciliation and eternal life (John 3:16). It highlights the sacrificial and redemptive love of God, which calls for a responsive faith and commitment from believers. Through the Cross, believers encounter the depth of God’s sacrificial love and His desire for a restored relationship with His creation. 

Moreover, the New Testament often portrays God as the ultimate judge, who will enact final justice at the end of times. This eschatological perspective is vividly detailed in books like Revelation, where the ultimate victory of God over evil and the establishment of a new heaven and new earth are prophesied (Revelation 21:1-4). 

Let us summarize: 

• The New Testament portrays God through the life and ministry of Jesus Christ.
• God is depicted as a loving Father, accessible and close to believers.
• The doctrine of the Trinity reveals God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
• New Testament emphasizes God’s grace, mercy, and forgiveness.
• Jesus’ death and resurrection are central to the portrayal of God, emphasizing sacrificial love.
• God is also depicted as the ultimate judge, who will bring final justice.

What biblical verses are most frequently cited to define God?

Throughout the Bible, numerous verses are frequently cited to encapsulate the essence and nature of God, each thread weaving together a tapestry that portrays His multifaceted character. The Old Testament sketches a portrait of God as omnipotent and sovereign, transcending human comprehension, yet intimately involved with His creation. Genesis 1:1 begins with the assertion, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth,” emphasizing His role as the eternal Creator. Isaiah 40:28 reinforces this, stating, “The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth.” 

In the New Testament, the understanding of God is deepened, particularly focusing on His relationship with humanity through Jesus Christ. John 1:1 reveals the intimate connection between God and Jesus: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.” This verse affirms the deity of Christ and His integral part in the Godhead. John 3:16 is perhaps one of the most renowned passages that reflect God’s love and grace: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” This act of divine sacrifice illustrates the depth of God’s compassion and desire for humanity’s redemption. 

Further illustrating God’s nature, 1 John 4:8 succinctly states, “God is love.” This powerful declaration encapsulates the essence of God’s character, reinforced throughout the Scriptures by numerous demonstrations of His unwavering love and mercy. Additionally, Psalm 103:8 highlights His patience and kindness: “The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love.” 

Throughout these verses, we observe fundamental attributes of God: His omnipotence, eternal nature, creative power, relational presence through Jesus Christ, and boundless love. Together, they form a rich, multi-dimensional understanding of the divine narrative as presented in the Bible. 

Let us summarize: 

• Genesis 1:1: God as the eternal Creator.
• Isaiah 40:28: God’s everlasting nature and creative power.
• John 1:1: The intimate connection between God and Jesus, affirming Christ’s deity.
• John 3:16: God’s immense love and the sacrificial nature of His son for humanity’s salvation.
• 1 John 4:8: The essence of God defined as love.
• Psalm 103:8: God’s compassion, grace, and patience.

What is the Catholic Church’s stance on Who and What is God? 

The Catholic Church, grounded in its rich theological tradition and historic teachings, maintains a deeply nuanced and comprehensive understanding of who and what God is. Central to Catholic theology is the belief in the Holy Trinity, a mystery of one God in three Persons: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), and God the Holy Spirit. This Trinitarian concept emphasizes that while there is only one God, He exists in three co-equal and co-eternal Persons, each fully and completely God, yet each distinct in relation. 

God the Father, within this Trinitarian framework, is understood as the eternal source and origin of the Godhead. He is often depicted as the Creator, who, through His Word, brought the universe into existence and who continues to sustain it. The Father’s love is seen as both parental and sovereign, reflecting a perfect blend of justice and mercy. 

God the Son, Jesus Christ, is the incarnate Word of God, who assumed human nature while remaining fully divine. The Catholic Church teaches that through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus Christ accomplished the definitive redemption of humanity. He is often called the Logos, which means the Word, emphasizing His role as the divine reason and principle of creation and salvation. 

God the Holy Spirit is recognized as the Lord and Giver of Life, proceeding from the Father and the Son. The Holy Spirit operates within the world, sanctifying and guiding the faithful, inspiring scripture, and indwelling believers. The Spirit’s roles encompass comforter, advocate, and sanctifier. 

Catholic doctrine is further articulated through numerous ecumenical councils and the writings of the Church Fathers. The Nicene Creed, formulated during the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD and further expanded in the Council of Constantinople in 381 AD, remains a cornerstone of Catholic declaration of faith. It clearly delineates the Church’s belief in one God, the divinity of the Son, and the procession of the Holy Spirit. 

Moreover, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, particularly in paragraphs 232-267, provides invaluable insights into the Church’s catechetical instruction on the Trinity. This includes the powerful mystery of God’s inner life, His self-revelation through scripture and tradition, and the ways in which believers are called to enter into relationship with the triune God. 

In summary, the Catholic understanding of God encompasses: 

• Belief in the Holy Trinity: one God in three Persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
• God the Father as the eternal source and Creator.
• God the Son, Jesus Christ, as the incarnate Word of God and Redeemer of humanity.
• God the Holy Spirit as the Sanctifier and Giver of Life.
• Foundational doctrines articulated through the Nicene Creed and articulated further in the Catechism of the Catholic Church.

How do different Christian denominations interpret the nature of God?

The nature of God, while a central tenet of Christianity, is interpreted in subtly varied yet powerfully meaningful ways across different Christian denominations. These interpretations, though unified in their acknowledgment of God’s supreme sovereignty and the foundational belief in the Trinity, diverge in their doctrinal nuances, liturgical expressions, and theological emphases. 

Among the Roman Catholics, the nature of God is deeply rooted in and expressed through sacramental theology. The Catholic Church emphasizes the mystery and majesty of the Triune God, placing significant spiritual and sacramental importance on traditions such as the Eucharist, whereby believers partake in the tangible presence of Jesus Christ. The Catechism of the Catholic Church lays out a systematic theology that articulates the nature of God as an eternal, all-knowing, and loving Trinity, engaging with humanity through a sacred relationship manifested in the sacraments and the teachings of the Church. 

Protestant denominations, though diverse, generally emphasize the personal and accessible nature of God, often through a direct personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Denominations such as Baptists, Methodists, and Presbyterians stress the authority of Scripture in understanding God’s nature. For instance, Baptists highlight personal faith and interpretive reading of the Bible, frequently referring to passages that emphasize God’s love, justice, and omnipresence. Calvinists, or Reformed Christians, particularly stress God’s sovereignty and the doctrine of predestination, interpreting God’s nature through the lens of His absolute control over all creation. 

Orthodox Christianity, both Eastern and Oriental, maintains a distinctive theological approach, often described as mystical or apophatic. The nature of God in Orthodox tradition is understood to transcend human comprehension, which is why apophatic theology—defining God by what He is not rather than what He is—plays a critical role. The divine mysteries are celebrated through the liturgy, which serves as a conduit for believers to experience the Triune God. The Orthodox also emphasize the concept of theosis, the process of becoming united with God, reflecting their unique theological narrative. 

These interpretative distinctions among Christian denominations illustrate a vast landscape of understanding, underscoring both the unity and diversity within Christian theology regarding the nature of God. Each denomination brings its historical, cultural, and spiritual contexts to bear, enriching the collective Christian discourse on the divine nature. 

Let us summarize: 

• Roman Catholicism emphasizes sacramental theology and the Eucharist.
• Protestant denominations emphasize personal relationships and the authority of Scripture.
• Baptists focus on personal faith and interpretive reading of the Bible.
• Calvinists stress God’s sovereignty and predestination.
• Orthodox Christianity uses apophatic theology and emphasizes theosis.

How do theologians explain the concept of the Trinity?

The notion of the Trinity stands as one of the most powerful, yet enigmatic theological doctrines within Christianity. At its core, it encompasses the understanding of God as three distinct persons—God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit—united in one essence. This triune nature is not depicted as three separate gods, but rather as one singular divine entity existing in three persons, co-equal and co-eternal, each person fully divine and fully operative in the unity of the Godhead.

Derived from the Latin term “Trinitas,” the concept formally took shape under the writings of early Church Fathers, notably Tertullian in the early 3rd century. Tertullian’s formulation provided a linguistic and conceptual framework that subsequent theologians elaborated upon throughout the centuries. His articulation set the stage for the doctrinal affirmations of the Nicene Creed in 325 A.D. and the Athanasian Creed, which explicitly defined the co-equality and co-eternity of the three persons of the Trinity. The Trinitarian doctrine finds its roots deeply embedded in Scripture. 

In the Old Testament, the groundwork is laid with indirect references and foreshadowing of the plurality within the Godhead, most famously in Genesis 1:26, where God says, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness”. This plurality becomes more distinctly unveiled in the New Testament. For instance, during Jesus’ baptism as recorded in Matthew 3:16-17, the presence of the Trinity is explicit: the Father speaks from heaven, the Son is baptized, and the Holy Spirit descends like a dove. Similarly, the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19 commands, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”.

Theologically, the Trinity represents a dynamic and interactive relationship within the Godhead, each person having distinct roles while operating in perfect harmony and unity. God the Father is often perceived as the Creator and sustainer of all, Jesus Christ as the Redeemer who incarnated to save humanity from sin, and the Holy Spirit as the sustainer and sanctifier who dwells within believers, guiding and empowering them in their spiritual journey.

Indeed, comprehending the Trinity lies beyond the scope of human logic and reason, characterizing it as a divine mystery. The complexities and nuances of this doctrine invite Christians into a deeper contemplation of the nature of God, fostering a more powerful reverence and worship.

Let us summarize: 

• The Trinity consists of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit.
• The three persons are distinct yet of one essence, co-equal and co-eternal.
• The doctrine was more formally articulated by Tertullian in the early 3rd century.
• Scriptural foundations of the Trinity are apparent in both Old and New Testaments.
• The Trinity represents a harmonious operation of distinct roles within the Godhead.
• The doctrine exemplifies a divine mystery, inviting deeper theological reflection.

What is the psychological interpretation of Who and What is God? 

The psychological interpretation of “Who and What is God?” often delves into the realm of human consciousness, exploring the dimensions of faith, perception, and existential significance. This approach does not negate theological doctrines but rather complements them by examining how the belief in God influences the human psyche and behavior. From a psychological standpoint, God can be understood as a central figure in the mental frameworks that guide moral and ethical behaviors, offer comfort during times of distress, and inspire individuals toward personal growth and transformation. 

Historically, Carl Jung, a prominent psychoanalyst, touched upon the idea of God as an archetype, a fundamental mental image that resides in the collective unconscious shared by humanity. Jung posited that these archetypal images, particularly the concept of God, play a crucial role in shaping our understanding of the world and our place within it. They manifest in dreams, art, and cultural symbols, serving as a bridge between our conscious experiences and deeper, often unarticulated, spiritual needs. 

Beyond individual psychology, the communal aspect of believing in God fosters a sense of belonging and shared identity among believers. This communal belief can lead to cohesive societal structures, providing a collective ethical foundation that informs laws, traditions, and social norms. Emile Durkheim, a foundational sociologist, argued that religion and the concept of a divine presence fortify social solidarity, making God an essential element in the maintenance of communal harmony. 

Cognitive science also sheds light on how the human mind processes and sustains belief in God. Cognitive theories suggest that the tendency to perceive agency and purpose in the world around us is inherently tied to a mental predisposition to believe in higher powers or divine beings. These beliefs can help individuals make sense of life’s uncertainties, providing existential meaning and reducing the anxiety associated with randomness and chaos. 

Let us summarize: 

• The psychological approach examines God’s influence on human consciousness.
• Carl Jung viewed God as an archetype within the collective unconscious.
• Communal belief in God fosters a sense of belonging and societal cohesion.
• Cognitive theories highlight a mental predisposition towards belief in higher powers.
• Belief in God provides existential meaning and reduces anxiety.

How do biblical stories illustrate God’s character?

The biblical narratives provide a vast landscape from which readers can glean insights into the multifaceted character of God, illustrating His nature through diverse stories and parables that span both the Old and New Testaments. These accounts not only portray God’s omnipotence and omnipresence but also His intimate relationship with humanity, His boundless grace, righteousness, and the loving nature that underpin His divine essence. 

In the Old Testament, the narrative of Genesis begins with the creation story, where God’s omnipotence and creativity are vividly displayed. Here, God’s ability to bring forth life and order out of chaos establishes Him as the sovereign Creator. Going deeper,in the story of Noah’s Ark, we observe God’s capacity for judgment and mercy, as He rescues Noah’s family and a remnant of the animal kingdom from the flood, showcasing both His justice and His compassion. 

Another powerful example is found in the story of Abraham, where God’s faithfulness and promise-keeping nature are depicted. Through the covenant with Abraham, God pledges to make his descendants a great nation, thus highlighting His reliability and the sacredness of His promises. Likewise, the Exodus account reveals God as a deliverer who hears the cries of the oppressed Israelites and frees them from Egyptian bondage, demonstrating His commitment to justice and His power to redeem. 

Transitioning to the New Testament, the character of God is epitomized through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. In Him, we see the embodiment of God’s love, grace, and truth. For instance, the parable of the Prodigal Son, shared in the Gospel of Luke, illustrates God’s boundless grace and readiness to forgive, welcoming the wayward back into His fold with open arms. Going deeper,Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection are the pinnacle of God’s redemptive plan, manifesting His sacrificial love and victory over sin and death. 

these narratives collectively demonstrate that the God of the Bible is deeply engaged with His creation, characterized by a powerful compassion that is both just and merciful. His interactions with humanity through covenants, miracles, judgments, and incarnations are indicative of His desire for a powerful relationship with mankind. 

Let us summarize: 

• God’s omnipotence and creativity are showcased in the creation story.
• Noah’s Ark illustrates God’s justice and compassion.
• The covenant with Abraham highlights God’s faithfulness.
• The Exodus showcases God as a deliverer and redeemer.
• The life and teachings of Jesus Christ in the New Testament epitomize God’s love, grace, and truth.
• The parable of the Prodigal Son exemplifies God’s readiness to forgive.
• Christ’s crucifixion and resurrection manifest God’s sacrificial love and victory over sin.

How do Christians experience and understand God’s presence in their lives?

For Christians, experiencing and understanding God’s presence in their lives is interwoven with the threads of personal faith, communal worship, scripture, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. These interactions with the divine are not merely abstract concepts; they are deeply personal and transformative experiences that anchor the believer’s life to a powerful sense of purpose and meaning. 

One of the foundational ways Christians perceive God’s presence is through the Holy Spirit, which comes to dwell within them upon accepting Jesus Christ as their Savior. This divine indwelling is a cornerstone of Christian belief, evidenced by numerous biblical passages, such as John 14:17, which speaks of the Spirit of truth dwelling with and in believers. The Holy Spirit acts as a guide, comforter, and source of strength, enabling Christians to live righteously and faithfully according to God’s commandments. 

Additionally, Christians experience God’s presence through communal worship, a practice that dates back to the early church. Gathering together for prayer, singing hymns, and engaging in the sacraments—most notably the Eucharist—reinforces a collective encounter with the divine. As Jesus promised in Matthew 18:20, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them,” collective worship becomes a tangible manifestation of God’s presence. 

Scripture plays an indispensable role in revealing God’s nature and will. By studying the Bible, Christians gain insight into God’s character and His desires for humanity. Scriptures such as Psalm 119:105, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path,” illustrate how the Bible serves as a divine guide for believers. Through ongoing engagement with scripture, Christians receive continual revelation and reinforcement of God’s presence and promises. 

Prayer, both personal and communal, stands as a direct line of communication with God. Through prayer, Christians can express adoration, confess sins, convey gratitude, and present their needs. This dialogical aspect of the faith ensures that believers maintain a vibrant relationship with God, cultivating an ever-deepening personal connection. As Philippians 4:6-7 articulates, sincere prayer brings peace that guards the heart and mind in Christ Jesus. 

Understanding God’s presence also extends to the recognition of divine intervention in daily life. Christians often recount personal testimonies of experiencing unexplainable peace, witnessing answered prayers, and sensing a divine hand guiding their decisions and protecting them from harm. Such experiences become faith milestones, reaffirming God’s active participation in their lives. 

Moreover, the conscience is perceived as a witness to God’s moral law, echoing the divine guidance within the human heart. Romans 2:15 speaks of the law written on human hearts, signifying an innate awareness of God’s moral standards and presence. 

In summary: 

• Christians experience God’s presence through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
• Communal worship fosters a collective encounter with God.
• Scriptural study reveals God’s nature and will.
• Prayer maintains a direct, personal connection with God.
• Divine intervention is recognized in daily life through personal testimonies.
• Conscience reflects an innate awareness of God’s moral law.

Facts & Stats

The majority of Christians believe that Jesus is the Son of God

50% of Christians believe God is all-knowing

35% of Christians believe God is ever-present

40% of Christians believe God is all-powerful

The concept of God is mentioned over 4,000 times in the Bible

Over 50% of Christians believe in the literal interpretation of the Bible

References

John 4:24

John 1:14

John 1:18

John 1:5

John 14:6

John 1:1

John 4

John 10