The God of Patience

This is the final article in a series on the subject—Do You Know God? In this article, we will study the Bible’s teaching on The God of Patience. The importance of this discussion can be seen in the Bible’s assertion that we should “regard the patience of our Lord as salvation” (2 Peter 3:15). Similar to many other attributes of God, it is His patience that is foundational to our salvation.

In the Bible, the words patience and longsuffering have essentially the same meaning when used in reference to God. It is His patience that results in God’s willingness to suffer long with man’s sinful and weak condition. The Scriptures provide many examples of the manifestation of this attribute of God.

In the book of Genesis, we read of a time when “the wickedness of man was great on the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually.” Man’s sin was so great that “The Lord was sorry that he had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart” (Genesis 6:5-6). God would destroy the earth but spare a man named Noah “who found favor in the eyes of the Lord.” Noah would spend the next 120 years building the ark and preaching to sinful man. Why didn’t God destroy the earth immediately? It was because “the patience of God kept waiting in the days of Noah” (1 Peter 3:20).

The same is true today. We live in a sinful world. God has promised to send His Son at the end of time to bring about the eternal salvation of the saved and the judgment of the lost. Why is He waiting? “The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9, emphasis added). This should motivate the sinner to repent - “Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?” (Romans 2:4).

What are some of the practical lessons that can be derived from coming to know The God of Patience? Consider the following . . .

Those In Fellowship With God Must Practice Patience. This attribute is included as one of the traits of those who have the fruit of the Spirit in their lives (Galatians 5:22). The fruit of the Spirit should be evident in the Christian’s walk with God. In fact, in his admonition to the early disciples, the apostle Paul encouraged them to “walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love, being diligent to preserve the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:1-3, emphasis added). Failing to practice patience is counterproductive to the work of the Spirit which is to lead to unity and peace.

The Work Of Evangelism Requires Patience. Sharing our faith with others can be difficult. People are not always receptive and are oftentimes even hostile in their response. The Bible teaches that we are to preach the word “with great patience” (2 Timothy 4:2). It is only with patient instruction that we will see results. The process of building up disciples that follows conversion also requires patience - “admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone” (1 Thessalonians 5:14).

The Patience Of God Is Motivational. As noted earlier, God’s patience can motivate the sinner to repent (Romans 2:4). As I come to know The God of Patience I find the motivation to change. The knowledge that He refrains from bringing time to an end due to His patient desire for all to repent (2 Peter 3:9) encourages me to prepare myself for eternity. It also moves me to take advantage of the time remaining to seek to bring others to Him knowing that my efforts in this regard are in complete harmony with His will.

Do you know The God of Patience? Do you practice patience with others? Are you patiently teaching the lost? Has God’s patience motivated you to develop your relationship with Him? Come to know The God of Patience today!

The God of Grace

This is the eleventh in a series of articles on the subject—Do You Know God? In this week’s article, we will study the Bible’s teaching on The God of Grace. Any study of God’s nature would be incomplete without addressing this facet of His person. It is the grace of God that makes our eternal salvation possible.

The Scriptures make reference to “ . . . the God of all grace . . . who . . . will Himself perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish you“ (1 Peter 5:10). This designation points to the source of saving grace—God! It is His grace that serves as the foundation of the work of redemption—the design and purpose of which is to perfect, confirm, strengthen and establish those redeemed by the blood of Jesus.

The word grace has been defined as unmerited favor. Within the context of a discussion of God’s will to save man, this definition helps us to see that we do not deserve to be forgiven of our sins. Salvation is an act of grace—”For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it  is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). The opportunity extended by God to receive eternal life s a gift—it is an unmerited favor granted by God—one in which we can not boast.

It should be noted that, while grace is a gift, it does require a response on man’s part in order to receive it. That response is faith. We can be saved through faith thereby demonstrating our desire to receive the gift freely given by God. Note the teaching of the apostle Paul on this matter: “Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand . . . “ (Romans 5:1-2, emphasis added). There is an inseparable connection between grace and faith in the redemptive plan of God.

As we reflect upon The God of Grace, it should be our motive to come to know more about the impact of His grace upon our lives. It is empowering to learn about the blessings bestowed upon us as the result of God’s unmerited favor. How can coming to know The God of Grace enrich the lives of those seeking to know Him? Consider the following . . .

 We Are Freed From The Guilt Of Sin. Sin produces agonizing guilt in the heart of those who truly love God. Oftentimes, we seek to restore our broken relationship with Him by some system of perfect law keeping. Thanks to the grace of God this is not necessary! The Bible is clear on this point—” . . . knowing that a man is not justified by the works of the Law but through faith in Christ Jesus, even we have believed in Christ Jesus, so that we may be justified by faith in Christ and not by the works of the Law; since by the works of the Law no flesh will be justified” (Galatians 2:16).

We Can Approach God With Confidence. The work of Jesus on the cross has made it possible to have free access to God. Jesus is truly a bridge over the troubled waters of life. We see The God of Grace acting on our behalf in the giving of His son for our sins. Thus, we can approach our Father in heaven with confidence knowing that He wants to deliver us through trials and difficult circumstances. “Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

We Learn Of A Better Way Of Life. This is an interesting point that is not often emphasized. Consistent with the previous points made in this article, the Bible teaches us, “For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all men . . . “ (Titus 2:11). This same verse goes further to state that grace serves the purpose of “ . . . instructing us to deny ungodliness and worldly desires and to live sensibly, righteously and godly in the present age . . . “ This is a better way of life that can be ours as we faithfully respond to The God of Grace.

Do you know The God of Grace? Do you desire to be freed from the guilt of sin? Do you want to approach God’s throne with confidence during time of need? Do you seek a better way of life? Come to know The God of Grace today!

The God of Mercy

This is the tenth in a series of articles on the subject—Do You Know God? In the final three articles, we will learn of God’s mercy, grace, and patience. These are three of the more familiar aspects of God’s nature. Let’s study the Scriptures together as we seek to learn what the Bible teaches about The God of Mercy.

Mercy has been defined as compassion or forgiveness shown toward someone whom it is within one’s power to punish or harm. This definition is consistent with the Bible’s portrayal of God. On numerous occasions, sinful man has stood in opposition to the plan and purposes of God. Justice would have resulted in death. Instead, God has chosen to respond with mercy – showing compassion and offering forgiveness to the sinner.

It’s interesting to note that God is described as “the Father of mercies” (2 Corinthians 3:1). This is an apt description given what the Bible reveals about God’s mercy. It can be easily argued that man would be hopelessly lost without God’s mercy.

All have “sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). As pointed out in previous articles, God is Holy and can have no fellowship with sin. He is Light and can have no fellowship with darkness. Sin separates from God. Mercy makes reconciliation possible.

In writing of his own salvation, Paul recounted, “ . . . I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. Yet I was shown mercy . . . ” (1 Timothy 1:13, emphasis added). This is true of all who have been saved by the blood of Christ! “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 2:4-5, emphasis added). Praise be to The God of Mercy who has shown compassion and forgiveness to the penitent sinner!

Let’s now consider three Biblical truths that are based on this aspect of God’s nature . . .  

The New Covenant Is Based On God’s Mercy. In writing of the New Covenant’s superiority to the Old Covenant, the Hebrew author quoted the words of God spoken through the prophet Jeremiah, “For I will be merciful to their iniquities, and I will remember their sins no more” (Hebrews 8:12). Where would we be had God chosen not to be merciful to sinners? Jesus established what has come to be known as The Lord’s Supper on the night of His betrayal. As He drank the fruit of the vine, Jesus spoke of the covenant to be established through His death, “ . . . for this is My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for forgiveness of sins” (Matthew 26:28). God could have chosen to punish all sinners eternally; instead, He gives all the opportunity for eternal life as a result of His merciful nature.

Through Jesus We Can Approach God’s Throne Of Mercy. Once in covenant fellowship with God, we can continue to avail ourselves of His mercy: “Therefore let us draw near with confidence . . . so that we may receive mercy . . . to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16). We continue to have need of God’s mercy as we continue to fight the daily battles of life. During these times, it is truly a blessing to know that God looks upon us with mercy and is there to help in time of need.

The God Of Mercy Calls Us To Be A People Of Mercy. As benefactors of God’s mercy, we should learn how to practice this same trait in our treatment of others. Jesus taught His disciples, “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:36). There are times when we should show compassion towards those who are within our power to punish or harm. How can we expect God to be merciful to us if we are not willing to be the same with others? “For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgment” (James 2:13).

Do you know The God of Mercy? If you have not done so, call upon God’s mercy as you obey His plan of salvation to be forgiven of your sins. Approach His throne of mercy so you may find help in time of need. And finally, practice mercy in your interactions with others. Come to know The God of Mercy today!

The God of Truth

This is the ninth in a series of articles on the subject—Do You Know God? In this week’s article, we will consider another aspect of God’s nature that is clearly seen in the Bible but that is often not fully accepted. Specifically, the Scriptures teach that God is the source of all truth. And, it is in the truth which He has revealed through His word that we come to know how to enter into fellowship with Him.

At one point in His public ministry, Jesus cried out in Herod’s Temple, “ . . . He who sent me is true . . . ” (John 7:28). This was a very simple but profound statement that Jesus made about God. He wanted His disciples to know that His heavenly Father was the God of Truth. This was another way of saying that God was the source of truth.

When brought before Pilate during His trial, Jesus said, “ . . . for this I have come into the world, to testify to the truth. Everyone who is of the truth hears My voice” (John 18:38). In response, Pilate asked, “What is truth?” Men have always sought to know the truth as did Pilate. At the same time, so few are willing to accept that truth can be found only in knowing God.

In a very real sense, Jesus’ statement to Pilate was a synopsis of His public ministry. He came to testify to the truth. Those who would know of that truth would listen to Jesus’ words. How about you? Are you willing to listen to the voice of Jesus? Only in listening and responding to Jesus can we come to truly know God.

The question might be asked, “If God is the source of truth, then how might one living today come to know that truth?” The answer is simple—Jesus! It was He who said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life, no one comes to the Father but through Me” (John 14:6, emphasis added). In reference to Jesus, the apostle John wrote that He was full of truth and that truth was realized through Him (John 1:14, 17).

So, God is the source of truth. He sent His Son, Jesus, to testify of that truth. And, those who listen to the voice of Jesus will not only come to know God but will also come to know how to enter into a relationship with Him.

Let’s now consider what Jesus said concerning what one must do to be saved. After all, that is the reason for seeking to know God. You see, Jesus also said, “ . . . and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free” (John 8:32). If you accept the words of Jesus then you are truly listening to He who came to testify of the truth. Are you willing to accept His words? Consider the teaching of Jesus . . .

Jesus Taught That We Must Believe In Him. Jesus said, “ . . . for unless you believe that I am He, you will die in your sins” (John 8:24). We must believe that Jesus is the Son of God. This faith is based on the evidence of Scripture. The record of the miracles of Jesus has been preserved for this reason, “Therefore many other signs Jesus also performed in the presence of His disciples, which are not written in this book; but these have been written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing you may have life in His name” (John 20:30-31).

Jesus Taught That We Must Confess Him Before Men. In the words of Jesus, “And I say to you, everyone who confesses Me before men, the Son of Man will confess him also before the angels of God . . . “ (Luke 12:8). The apostle Paul wrote, “ . . . for with the heart a person believes, resulting in righteousness, and with the mouth he confesses, resulting in salvation” (Romans 10:10).

Jesus Taught That We Must Repent Of Our Sins. In the simplest of terms, Jesus made it very clear, “I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish” (Luke 13:3). To repent is to change or turn. It means to turn away from sin and the world and turn to God.

Jesus Taught That We Must Be Baptized. In what has come to be known as The Great Commission, Jesus charged the apostles, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation. He who has believed and has been baptized shall be saved; but he who has disbelieved shall be condemned” (Mark 16:15-16). This and the preceding points are brought together in the conversion experience of the Ethiopian eunuch. “As he went along the road they came to some water; and the eunuch said, ‘Look! Water! What prevents me from being baptized?’ And Philip said, ‘If you believe with all your heart, you may.’ And he answered and said, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he ordered the chariot to stop; and they both went down into the water, Philip as well as the eunuch, and he baptized him” (Acts 8:36-38).

In conclusion, the God of the Bible is the God of Truth. He sent His son to testify to that truth. Jesus has spoken. He tells us of the truth that will set us free. What will you do with the truth? Do you know the God of Truth?

God is Light

This is the eighth in a series of articles on the subject—Do You Know God? In this week’s article, we will seek to gain a deeper understanding of the apostle John’s statement, “This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5). This is one facet of God’s nature that touches the Christian’s life in many practical ways.

John stated that the message “God is Light” came from Him (i.e., God). The inspired apostle began his account of the gospel of Jesus with many references to this concept. Concerning the Christ sent from God the apostle wrote, “In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it . . . There was the true Light which, coming into the world, enlightens every man” (John 1:4-5, 9).

Humanity lives in a world of darkness when it refuses to live according to the Light. The Bible describes Satan and his demonic forces as “the world forces of this darkness” (Ephesians 6:12). It is written of those who come to God, “For He rescued us from the domain of darkness, and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins” (Colossians 1:13-14). All men must choose to either live in darkness or seek the enlightenment that only comes from knowing God.

True enlightenment is found in a relationship with God through the work of Jesus. The Lord taught His disciples, “I am the Light of the world; he who follows Me will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life” (John 8:12). Through the centuries, many have rejected the Light of life in refusing to know God. The reason for this rejection? “The Light has come into the world, and men loved the darkness rather than the Light, for their deeds were evil” (John 3:19, emphasis added). Those who follow the path of evil cannot comprehend the Light of life.

Which path will you choose to take in life? Those who desire eternal life will look to the Light of Life. God is that Light. You can begin today to live in His light. The following blessings will be yours . . .

A Daily Guide For A Better Life. The Psalmist wrote, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 1119:105). Spending time each day in God’s word brings wisdom, instruction, and enlightenment. A better life can be yours as you seek the Light of Life.

A Means Of Overcoming The Power Of Satan. In speaking of his work among the lost, Paul stated that it was his mission “to open their eyes so that they might turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God” (Acts 26:18). In God we find the resources to win life’s spiritual battles, “Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil” (Ephesians 6:10).

An Opportunity To Reflect God’s Light In Our Lives. Jesus instructed His disciples, “You are the light of the world . . . Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:14, 16). God is Light. We reflect that light through our own good works.

Do you know the God Who is Light? He provides light for life in His word. He empowers those in fellowship with Him to overcome evil. And, finally, He calls the saved to glorify Him as they reflect His light.

God is Love

This is the seventh in a series of articles on the subject—Do You Know God? In this week’s article, we will seek to learn more about God’s love for mankind. The Bible presents this idea in very simple terms by stating that “God is love” (1 John 4:8, 16). Love originates in God and proceeds from Him. It could be said that all of God’s attributes are harmonized in this one. That is, in the manifestation of God’s love we see His grace, mercy, patience, goodness, compassion, etc.

God’s love cannot be understood based on the world’s definition of love. The love of God is not an emotion or a feeling. It is an active and intense interest in the well being of another. It is unconditional and not based on the actions of the object of that love. Consider the words of the apostle Paul, “For while we were still helpless, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly . . . But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:6,8). God did not sacrifice His son because we deserved it—He did so while we were yet sinners. God sacrificed His Son because of His love for humanity (John 3:16).

Men sometimes question God’s love for them. In the sacrifice of Jesus, we see not only the manifestation of God’s supreme love but the proof of that love as well. Jesus taught His disciples, “Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13). God came to this earth, took on the form of human flesh, and then sacrificed His body so that we might have eternal life! What more could God have done to express His supreme love for us?

To know God is to know love—for God is love. This is life changing knowledge. The deeper my knowledge of God the greater will be my desire to live according to His ways. This is especially true in the area of love—”Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children; and walk in love“ (Ephesians 5:1). The word “walk” is used in the Bible in reference to a manner of life. Let’s now consider some ways that we can walk in God’s love.

We Should Love God With All Of Our Being. Jesus spoke of the love we should have for God, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and will all your mind. This is the great and foremost commandment” (Matthew 22:37-38). Our response to God’s supreme love should be to love Him supremely!

We Should Love Our Neighbor. Jesus also taught with respect to the greatest commandment, “The second is like it, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself’” (Matthew 22:39). We should be seeking the good of others. This involves a willingness to give of our time and resources to help meet the spiritual and physical needs of the less fortunate.

We Should Love Our Enemies. Remember, God sacrificed His Son for us while we were yet sinners. We should manifest the same love for those who stand in opposition to us. ”But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you” (Matthew 5:44).

Do you know that God is love? Do you actively seek that which is in the best interests of God? Those in need? And, even your own enemies?

God—All Powerful, All Knowing, Ever Present

This is the sixth in a series of articles on the subject—Do You Know God? In this week’s article, the subject of God’s power, knowledge, and presence will be discussed. Specifically, we will briefly review the Bible’s teaching on God’s omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence. A deeper understanding of these concepts should serve to help us “draw near to God” so that He will “draw near to us” (James 4:8).

While the terms omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence are not found in Scripture, the meaning behind each term is certainly applicable to God. The prefix “omni” means “all” and is used in the formation of compound words. “Potent” means power. “Science” means knowledge. “Presence” means space. Adding the prefix “omni” to each of the preceding three words captures the all powerful, all knowing, and ever present nature of God when applied to His person. It is these three concepts that will be addressed in the following paragraphs.

The Omnipotent—All Powerful—God. The Scriptures speak directly to the unlimited power of God in numerous passages. When God appeared to Abraham and spoke of the covenant into which He would enter with the patriarch, He referred to Himself as El Shaddai, “Almighty God” (Genesis 17:1). When told they were to have a child, Abraham’s wife, Sarah, laughed in disbelief because of her age. God then asked her, “Is anything too difficult for the Lord” (Genesis 18:14). Our knowledge of God’s infinite power should comfort us as we consider the manifestation of that power in creation and, more importantly, in the bringing about of our salvation.

The Omniscient—All Knowing—God. The Bible also makes clear that there are no limits to God’s knowledge. His “understanding is inscrutable (unsearchable)” and “infinite” (Isaiah 40:28; Psalm 148:5). The psalmist wrote of God’s infinite knowledge of each individual man and woman who has ever lived, “Such knowledge is too high for me; it is too high, I cannot attain it” (Psalm 139:6). Speaking to His disciples of God’s intimate knowledge of their lives, Jesus said, “Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered” (Luke 12:7). God knows everything about our lives—and cares!

The Omnipresent—Ever Present—God. Speaking to the prophet Jeremiah to the rebellious Jews of his time, God asked a series of questions aimed at highlighting His omnipresence, “Am I a God who is near . . . and not a God far off? Can a man hide himself in hiding places so I do not see him? . . . Do I not fill the heavens and the earth?” (Jeremiah 23:23-24). It should be noted that these questions are not being asked by God in search of an answer. Each question is asked with the statement, “declares the Lord” - the questions were rhetorical and were actually declarations made in reference to His omnipresence. This should be comforting to those who are His children—God is with us wherever we may go and in whatever situation we might find ourselves!

In conclusion, do you know the omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent God of the Bible? God’s unlimited power can save you! His unlimited knowledge of all things can enlighten you! And, His ever present being can comfort you as you make your journey to heaven with Him!

The Triune Nature of God

This is the fifth in a series of articles on the subject—Do You Know God? In this week’s article, the subject of The Triune Nature Of God will be discussed. We will briefly review the Bible’s teaching on the trinity. Certain practical applications will then be drawn from this doctrine that should serve to enhance our relationship with God.

While the Bible presents God as three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—it should be understood that the Scriptures speak of only one God. When asked by a scribe as to which commandment was the greatest, Jesus responded by quoting Deuteronomy 6:4, “The foremost is, ‘Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is one Lord” (Mark 12:29). The fact of the triune nature of God does not contradict this fact.

In this one God there are three persons who share in His essence. We read of God creating the heavens and the earth in Genesis 1:1. The name used of God in this verse—Elohim—is actually plural in form. The same word is used later in Genesis 1 in reference to God where He said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness” (verse 26). Notice the use of the plural pronouns Us and Our. The doctrine of the triune nature of God is not fully developed in the Old Testament; however, the concept of God’s plural nature is certainly evident.

While the three persons of the Godhead are equal in essence or divinity, they each play a distinct role. There is God the Father—it is this Father to whom we pray and from whom we will receive our eternal inheritance (Matthew 6:9; Galatians 4:6-7). There is God the Son—it is this Son who is not ashamed to call God’s children His brothers and sisters (Hebrews 2:11-14; Mark 3:31-35). There is God the Spirit—is it this Spirit of God who serves as the agent of divine revelation (John 16:13; 2 Peter 1:21).

The triune nature of God is certainly not easily understood by finite man. At the same time, what has been revealed about this facet of God’s person can inspire His children to greater service. Consider the following practical applications of this doctrine.

The Work Of The Trinity In Redemption. The three persons of the Godhead work in unison for the redemption of penitent sinners. Those who believe in Jesus are commanded to be baptized “in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19). All three persons are referenced by the apostle Peter in bringing about our salvation, “To those . . . who are chosen according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, by the sanctifying work of the Spirit, to obey Jesus Christ and be sprinkled with His blood” (1 Peter 1:1-2). God’s children should strive diligently to emulate the work of the Godhead in our efforts to reach out to the lost of the world as did God the Father and God the Son and God the Spirit.

We Are Partakers Of The Divine Nature. The apostle Peter wrote that by virtue of God’s glory and excellence “He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature” (2 Peter 1:3-4). It is written of the local church that it is a temple of God in which “the Spirit of God dwells” (1 Corinthians 3:16). Of individual disciples, the Bible teaches that our bodies are “a temple of the Holy Spirit” (1 Corinthians 6:19). The work of the triune God has made it possible for us to share in the nature of He in whose image we have been created—what a blessing and responsibility!

In The Godhead There Is A Unified . . . Will, Purpose, And Action. From the preceding discussion, it is evident that the three persons of the Godhead work in perfect harmony to accomplish God’s purposes. Jesus said, “I have come down from heaven, not to do My own will, but the will of Him who sent Me” (John 6:38). Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to guide the apostles into all truth and said of this third person of the trinity, “He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak” (John 16:13). Similar to the Godhead, we should seek to work in harmony with those in fellowship with God—we should manifest a unified will, purpose, and action!

In conclusion, all those seeking a closer relationship with God should seek to know the triune nature of God. This knowledge will not only enhance our relationship with God, but it will also serve to motivate us to work together as those who are partakers of this divine nature. The result will be a harmonious blending of souls committed the carrying out of God’s will during our time here on this earth.

Do You Know . . . The God Of Peace?

This is the fourth in a series of articles on the subject—Do You Know God? Our purpose has been to gain a deeper understanding of God with a view to developing a closer relationship with Him. In the discussion that follows, another facet of God’s nature will be considered—specifically, that Jehovah is the God of Peace.

In the book of Judges, the story is told of one of God’s chosen deliverers by the name of Gideon. The angel of God charged Gideon with the task of delivering the Israelites from Midianite oppression. The Lord encouraged Gideon concerning the battle ahead with these words, “Peace to you, do not fear; you shall not die” (Judges 6:23). In response, Gideon built an altar to God and named it Yahweh-Shalom—The Lord is Peace.

Gideon came to realize that the Lord would be with him in the challenging days ahead. It is important that we all come to have this same understanding. Only through a relationship with God can true peace in the midst of life’s battles be found. But, it must be a relationship built upon trust in Him. We must learn to let God fight our battles. “The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You” (Isaiah 26:3).

Let’s consider three facts about how this peace can be ours.

Spiritual Peace Is Found In Jesus. The word shalom used in reference to God carries with it the idea of wholeness or completeness—this is true inner peace. Jesus came to make this peace with God a reality. He is the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). Our Lord taught His disciples, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful” (John 14:27). The work of evangelism is to “present every man complete in Christ” (Colossians 1:28). To be complete is to have peace with God through Jesus.

Peace Is A Fruit Of The Holy Spirit. The apostle Paul includes peace in the list of the fruit of the Spirit at Galatians 5:22. The fruit of the Spirit is produced when we study and accept the teaching of Scripture. The desires of the flesh are “immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these” (Galatians 5:19-21). The Bible teaches us—”walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). It is this walk, or manner of life, that will bring peace to our souls—pursuing the desires of the flesh will only lead to a life of misery.

The Peace That Comes From God Requires Sacrifice. Peace with God is possible as the result of the death of Christ on the cross. This was the ultimate sacrifice. Those seeking peace in life must be willing to sacrifice as well. Jesus said, “And he who does not take up his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who has found his life will lose it, and he who has lost his life for My sake will find it” (Matthew 10:38-39). Living for self will not lead to peace—living for Christ will!

Do you know the Peace of God? Have you entered into a relationship with Jesus in which you have been made whole or complete? Are you walking by the Spirit? Have you sacrificed self for the sake of Jesus? Make a decision today to find true inner peace with God—come to know the God of Peace!

JEHOVAH-M'KADDESH, Jehovah Who Sanctifies

This is the third in a series of articles on the subject—Do You Know God? The purpose of the discussion will be to consider the concept of Jehovah-M’Kaddesh; that is, Jehovah Who Sanctifies. In the paragraphs that follow, the Holiness of God will be emphasized with a view toward developing a deeper understanding that He can sanctify, or make holy, those who seek to know Him more completely. When we truly understand the biblical concept of God's holiness then our relationship with God will never be the same. Each day will be lived within the sphere of the awesome truth: “Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord of hosts, The whole earth is full of His glory” (Isaiah 6:3).

The terms sanctify and holy are basically synonymous. God is called kedoshim in the Old Testament which portrays Him as being the Holy One. The Hebrew word m'kaddesh is also used in reference to God and suggests the idea of sanctification, or separateness. Combining the meaning behind these two words, we therefore understand that God, as being the holy one, is able to sanctify, set apart, or make holy.

That God is holy is undeniable. This fact is restated on numerous occasions throughout the inspired pages of God's word. Certainly it is one of the most important lessons about God in the Old Testament. One of God's greatest desires for His covenant people was to recognize Him as the only true and living God. “To you it was shown that you might know that the Lord, He is God; there is no other besides Him” (Deuteronomy 4:35). As such, God was to be treated as separate, or holy, by His people. He was not to be worshipped as simply another god among many gods. “Thus says the Lord, King of Israel and his redeemer, the Lord of hosts: I am the first and I am the last, and there is no God besides Me” (Isaiah 44:6).

Given His holy nature, God is therefore able to make holy, or to sanctify. God set apart, sanctified, or made holy the Sabbath day (Genesis 2:3). It was to be a special day and considered as different from all others. In accordance with the Mosaic law, the special observance of the Sabbath as a holy day was to play a key role in the national religious life of the Jews: “ . . . You shall surely observe My sabbaths; for this is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations, that you may know that I am the Lord who sanctifies you. Therefore you are to observe the Sabbath, for it is holy to you” (Exodus 31:13-14). This passage illustrates the relationship between God sanctifying man and man sanctifying God. God would sanctify the Jews as His special people if they would always remember to sanctify the Sabbath and observe it as a holy day. Of course, God also set apart many other times to be observed by the Jews as holy festivals. As with the Sabbath, the Jews were to continuously regard these festivals as special occasions. In keeping God's commandments concerning these festivals, they thereby set apart God as the holy one and maintained their own separateness as God's holy people.

Understanding the Old Testament portrayal of God as the Holy One and He Who Sanctifies is basic to a proper conception of true spirituality. As children of God living under the new covenant, it is of vital importance that we have a correct view of God in terms of His holiness. How can this understanding enhance our own personal relationship with the God of our salvation?

First, a proper understanding of God's holiness should create within us a greater reverence for Him. Take some quite time to thoughtfully consider the holiness of your God. Meditate upon the fact that the God you serve is one who is absolutely righteous and free from sin. Can this be said of anyone else? The apostle Peter encouraged God's people: “ . . . conduct yourselves in fear during the time of your stay upon earth . . . “ While living here on earth, God's people should set apart, or sanctify, their Lord as Master of their lives. Peter further exhorted those to whom he wrote: “ . . . sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts . . . “ (1 Peter 3:15). Have you truly set Jesus apart in your heart? If so, has it significantly altered your disposition toward Him?

Second, a deeper appreciation of God's holiness will cause us to have a greater respect for His word. As discussed earlier, it is the fact that God is holy that gives Him the power to make holy. Just as God set apart the Sabbath for a special purpose and required the Jews to keep it holy as a means of their own sanctification, God will also set apart men and women today who obey His revealed will. Sanctification through Christ results from obedience to the truth. “Sanctify them in the truth; Thy word is truth . . . And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they themselves also may be sanctified in truth” (John 17:17, 19). When sinners render obedience to the gospel invitation, they are sanctified through the shed blood of Jesus Christ: “ . . . we have been sanctified through the offering of the body of Jesus Christ once for all . . . Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people through His own blood, suffered outside the gate” (Hebrews 10:10; 13:12). Concerning the church, Paul wrote: “ . . .  that He might sanctify her, having cleansed her by the washing of water with the word . . . “ (Ephesians 5:26). Praise God for revealing His will to us and thus providing the means for our own sanctification!

Finally, as we grow in our comprehension of God's holiness we will be deeply impressed with the need for personal holiness in our own lives. When obedience is rendered to the gospel, God sets us apart as His special people. However, sanctification doesn't end with baptism. We are to continually seek personal Holiness through the development of a God-like disposition: “ . . . but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written, ‘YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY’” (1 Peter 1:15-16). In what sense is God holy? He is set apart from all others and is therefore different. In the same sense, God's children are to be different from those in the world. “ . . . be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and put on the new self, which in the likeness of God has been created in righteousness and holiness of the truth” (Ephesians 4:23-24). Christians should ask themselves, “Am I different from those who are not children of God? Do others see my manner of life as reflective of the holiness of God?”

In conclusion, perhaps we should all make a personal commitment to increase in our understanding of God's holiness. It is only through that understanding that we can emulate God while living here on this earth. And hopefully, we will someday be able to sing with the redeemed of all ages the song of Moses and the Lamb: “Who will not fear, O Lord, and glorify Thy name? For Thou alone art holy” (Revelation 15:4).