1. The Nature of God

Lesson on 09/09/25

Nature

What something is like.

God’s nature

God’s nature is a way of understanding what God is like but in reality it is impossible because God is ineffable (indescribable).

Why is understanding God’s nature important for Christians?

Through understanding the nature of God, Christians can achieve salvation. This is because God has the power to reward Christians - he is omnipotent.

Immanent

God is within (Earth).

Among us, present.

Transcendent

God is other (separate, not with us right now).

Is God (The Father) immanent or transcendent during the creation of the world, Jesus’ life, now.

Creation of the world: Transcendent 

Jesus’ life: Transcendent

Now: Transcendent

Is Jesus (The Son) immanent or transcendent during the creation of the world, Jesus’ life, now.

Creation of the world: Transcendent

Jesus’ life: Immanent

Now: Transcendent

Is the holy spirit immanent or transcendent during the creation of the world, Jesus’ life, now.

Creation of the world: Transcendent

Jesus’ life: Transcendent

Now: Immanent

Omnipotent

Omni means all. Potent means powerful. Omnipotent means all powerful.

This word can only be used for God.

→ The belief that God is all powerful.

Quote about God’s omnipotence and what is suggests.

‘Nothing is impossible with God.’

This is a quote from the Bible. This means that God can do anything, his power is limitless. This is a Bible quote.

Examples of God being omnipotent. (3)

• When he created the world

• When he healed a blind man through Jesus

• When God parted the sea through Moses

Omnibenevolent

All-loving.

Example of God being omnibenevolent + quote.

God was omnibenevolent through Jesus when he died on the cross (sacrificed himself for others).

‘Father forgive them, they do not know what they do.’

Omniscient

All-knowing.

Example of God being omniscient.

God is omniscient when he judges people (his understanding and knowledge is infinite).

Just

Treating people fairly and equally.

Quote of God being just.

‘God is just.’

Quote in the Bible.