SS Outline 6.8.25
June 8, 2025: Chapter 4 - "The Essential Nature of God"
Introduction
I. The Spiritual Nature of God
II. The Self-Existence and Infinity of God
III. The Unity and Simplicity of God
IV. Conclusion & Reflection
Introduction
- Definition from Berkhof: God’s essence is infinite, self-existent, and spiritual.
- John 4:24 – God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.
- Why This Matters:
- A correct understanding of God’s nature guards against idolatry and false worship.
I. The Spiritual Nature of God
- God is Spirit
- John 4:24 – No physical limitations, unlike creation.
- Exodus 20:4-5 – Why idolatry is forbidden.
- Implications:
- God is not bound by space or time.
- Worship must be in spirit and truth, not merely external rituals.
II. The Self-Existence and Infinity of God
- Self-Existence:
- Exodus 3:14 – “I AM WHO I AM” (God’s eternal being).
- Acts 17:25 – God depends on no one.
- Infinity:
- Psalm 145:3 – His greatness is unsearchable.
- God is unlimited in knowledge (omniscience), power (omnipotence), and presence (omnipresence).
III. The Unity and Simplicity of God
- Unity of God:
- Deuteronomy 6:4 – “The Lord our God, the Lord is one.”
- There is only one true God, not multiple divine beings.
- Simplicity of God:
- God is not made up of parts; His attributes are not separate components.
- He is fully love, fully just, fully sovereign at all times.
IV. Conclusion & Reflection
- Summary of Key Points:
- God is spirit (not limited by physical form).
- God is self-existent (independent and eternal).
- God is infinite (no limits in power, knowledge, or presence).
- God is one and simple (not divided into parts).
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