Hello Village Church family and friends,
As I said last week, I’m devoting the "From the Pastor" spot in the weekly Village News to a study on the attributes of God. It is my prayer that by looking deeper into God’s Word at His revealed character, we will grow together in our understanding and knowledge—our theology—of the One, True God, with whom no one and nothing else compares (Exodus 15:11).
Let’s begin with this question: What is an attribute? Merriam-Webster’s Dictionary defines an attribute as, “A quality, character, or characteristic ascribed to someone or something.” This is not a new or difficult word to understand. We describe people by their attributes often. Sometimes attributes are positive, “That lady is so generous." Sometimes they are negative, “That guy is always irritable.” Some people are known by multiple attributes; “Mr. Smith is such a patient and dedicated teacher.” Attributes are those characteristics that define us and make up who we are. Therefore, it should come as no surprise, that since we have attributes, the one in whose image we are made (Genesis 1:27) is marked by a variety of attributes. God has revealed many of these attributes across His written Word, as we will see.
We learn of God’s attributes through creation and His Word. Romans 1:20 says that God’s attributes, though invisible, are clearly seen through what has been made. Furthermore, we learn about the attributes of God because God has spoken to us about Himself through His Word—the Bible. 2 Timothy 3:16 says that, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching.” Whether in creation or His Word, it is from God that we receive any knowledge and understanding of His attributes. He has the first and final word on His character. He informs and instructs our theology.
Go Deeper:
Can you name any of God’s attributes?
Do you know any Scripture verses that speak of God’s attributes?
Read Exodus 34:6-7 and see how many attributes of God you can find.
Lord willing, I'll see you Sunday!
Grace & Peace,
John
(You can reach Pastor John at jwhite@thevillagemi.com)