Topical Encyclopedia
The character of God is a central theme throughout the Bible, revealing His nature, attributes, and relationship with creation. Understanding God's character is foundational to the Christian faith, as it shapes the believer's view of God, themselves, and the world.
HolinessGod's holiness is a defining attribute, signifying His absolute purity and separation from sin. In
Isaiah 6:3, the seraphim proclaim, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; all the earth is full of His glory." This thrice-repeated declaration emphasizes the perfection and transcendence of God's holiness. God's holiness demands reverence and awe, as seen in
Leviticus 19:2, where He commands, "Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy."
LoveGod's love is a profound and enduring aspect of His character. In 1
John 4:8, it is stated, "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love." This love is demonstrated supremely in the sacrificial act of sending His Son, as
John 3:16 affirms, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." God's love is unconditional and steadfast, as expressed in
Romans 8:38-39, where Paul assures that nothing can separate believers from the love of God in Christ Jesus.
JusticeGod's justice is integral to His character, ensuring that righteousness prevails.
Deuteronomy 32:4 declares, "He is the Rock, His work is perfect; all His ways are just. A God of faithfulness without injustice, righteous and upright is He." God's justice is impartial and fair, as He judges with equity and truth.
Psalm 9:8 states, "He judges the world with justice; He governs the people with equity."
Mercy and GraceGod's mercy and grace are expressions of His compassion and kindness.
Ephesians 2:4-5 highlights this, saying, "But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in our trespasses. It is by grace you have been saved." God's mercy withholds deserved punishment, while His grace bestows unmerited favor.
Lamentations 3:22-23 beautifully captures this, "Because of the LORD’s loving devotion we are not consumed, for His mercies never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness!"
SovereigntyGod's sovereignty affirms His supreme authority and control over all creation.
Psalm 115:3 declares, "Our God is in heaven; He does as He pleases." God's sovereignty assures believers that nothing occurs outside His will and purpose.
Romans 8:28 reassures, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose."
FaithfulnessGod's faithfulness is unwavering and reliable.
1 Corinthians 1:9 states, "God is faithful, by whom you were called into fellowship with His Son, Jesus Christ our Lord." His promises are sure, and He remains true to His word.
Hebrews 10:23 encourages believers to "hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful."
ImmutabilityGod's immutability means He is unchanging in His nature and promises.
Malachi 3:6 affirms, "For I, the LORD, do not change; therefore you, O sons of Jacob, are not consumed." This attribute provides believers with assurance and stability, knowing that God's character and purposes remain constant throughout time.
WisdomGod's wisdom is perfect and beyond human comprehension.
Romans 11:33 exclaims, "O, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways!" God's wisdom is evident in creation, providence, and redemption, guiding His actions and decisions with perfect understanding and purpose.
OmnipotenceGod's omnipotence signifies His all-powerful nature.
Jeremiah 32:17 declares, "Ah, Lord GOD! You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too difficult for You!" God's omnipotence assures believers of His ability to accomplish His will and fulfill His promises.
OmniscienceGod's omniscience encompasses His complete knowledge of all things, past, present, and future.
Psalm 147:5 states, "Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit." God's omniscience ensures that He is fully aware of every detail of His creation and the lives of His people.
OmnipresenceGod's omnipresence affirms His presence everywhere at all times.
Psalm 139:7-10 beautifully expresses this truth: "Where can I go to escape Your Spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend to the heavens, You are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, You are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle by the farthest sea, even there Your hand will guide me; Your right hand will hold me fast."
The character of God, as revealed in Scripture, is multifaceted and profound, inviting believers to know, worship, and trust Him fully.
