Answering Basic Questions (Part 1): Who Is God?

Text: 1 Peter 3:15

In our text, Peter explained that each Christian needs to be ready to give an answer for what we believe. Giving a defense for the HOPE within us requires an ability to articulate the basics of our faith. In this series, we are going to discuss some basic questions that may arise. This is to help reinforce our own faith and help prepare us to teach others as opportunities arise.

Who Is God?

The natural world around us is proof of a higher power – order, complexity, continuous systems
Our universe could not have come about by mere chance or from nothingness – it came from God

God Is an Eternal Being

“In the beginning God…” (Genesis 1:1) – He existed before the world; matter is not eternal (basic scientific rule); there had to be something/someone that preexisted all things
God had no beginning (Psalm 90:2) – everything around us is temporary; God is eternal

God Is Our Creator

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1) – someone had to do this (Hebrews 3:4); Jesus (the Son of God) was instrumental in creation (John 1:3-4); [more on Jesus in a future lesson]
He made the world around us AND has given life to each one of us – this shows His power and personal interest in us

God Is Our Provider

After the flood, God gave a promise to Noah for all mankind (Genesis 8:22) – this is His providence; as He promised, these things continue today; even the mockers of God see this (2 Peter 3:3-4)
“Every good thing” in life is from Him (James 1:17) – this is a witness of God’s care and love for us (Acts 14:17)

God Is All-Knowing

Characteristics of God – omnipotence, omnipresence, omniscience, eternality [already covered two of these] – omnipresence and omniscience are related (Psalm 139:7-8); He is mindful of us wherever we are and whatever we do
He even knows our thoughts (Psalm 139:3-4) – nothing is hidden from Him (Hebrews 4:12-13)

Conclusion