We explore the profound biblical concept that God is fundamentally identified with life itself. This understanding is crucial for comprehending the nature of God and His relationship to all living beings.
Biblical Affirmation of God as the Source of Life
The Scriptures present God as the ultimate source and sustainer of life:
Creator of Life: The Bible begins with the affirmation that God is the Creator of all life. From Genesis, where God breathes life into Adam, to the intricate descriptions of life in the Psalms, God is portrayed as the giver and sustainer of life.
Inherent Life in God: In the New Testament, particularly in the Gospel of John, Jesus speaks of God as having life in Himself (John 5:26). This indicates that life is not just a creation of God but is inherent in His very nature.
God’s Life-Giving Nature
Understanding God’s identity as life has significant theological implications:
Sustenance of Life: The continuous sustenance and renewal of life in the world point to God’s active role in the ongoing processes of life.
Spiritual Life: In addition to physical life, God is the source of spiritual life. Through Christ, believers are offered eternal life, reflecting a deep spiritual reality that transcends physical existence.
Life as an Attribute of God’s Nature
The attribute of life is integral to understanding God’s character:
Eternal Life: God's nature as life is eternal and unchanging. This eternal aspect of God’s life forms the basis for the Christian hope of eternal life.
Life as Holiness: God’s life is not just biological but is characterized by holiness, purity, and righteousness. His life is the antithesis of death and sin.
Implications for Worship and Relationship with God
Recognizing God as the essence of life shapes how believers relate to Him:
Worship as Celebration of Life: Worship in the Christian context becomes a celebration of the life God gives and sustains. It is an acknowledgment of His life-giving power and presence.
Relationship as Participation in Life: Engaging in a relationship with God means participating in His life. Believers are called to a life that reflects God’s life - one marked by vitality, purpose, and spiritual growth.
Conclusion: Embracing God, the Giver of Life
Understanding God as life is foundational to Christian theology. It underscores the idea that in knowing and relating to God, believers are engaging with the very source of life itself. This realization brings a profound sense of connection with the Creator, who infuses life with meaning, purpose, and eternal significance.
About the Author
EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).
Comments