What the Bible Says About God

This study does not attempt to define God or presume full understanding of Him, but simply seeks to "know God" more deeply—so that our faith may grow, our trust in our Creator may strengthen, and our lives may reflect Jesus more fully.

Session 1: God as Trinity
—Printable Download

The doctrine of the Trinity is one of Christianity's most profound mysteries - that God exists as three distinct persons (Father, Son, Holy Spirit) yet remains one God. While the word "Trinity" doesn't appear in Scripture, the concept is woven throughout the Bible. 

Primary Texts:

Matthew 28:19 - "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."

2 Corinthians 13:14 - "May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all."

1 John 5:7 - "For there are three that testify:"

Supporting Passages:

Genesis 1:26 - "Then God said, 'Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness...'"

John 1:1, 14 - "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God... The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us."

John 14:16-17 - "And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another advocate to help you and be with you forever—the Spirit of truth."

John 10:30 - "I and the Father are one."

QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION:

1. Evidence for Three Distinct Persons

Read Matthew 3:16-17 (Jesus' baptism)

— Who are the three persons present in this scene?

— How does each person have a distinct role while working together?

— What does this teach us about the nature of God?

COMMENT: At Jesus' baptism in Matthew 3:16–17, we encounter a profound revelation of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—each distinctly present and active. As Jesus (the Son) emerges from the waters, the heavens open and the Spirit descends like a dove upon Him, while a voice from heaven (the Father) proclaims, “This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.” This scene presents all three Persons of the Godhead simultaneously: the Son is baptized, the Spirit descends, and the Father speaks. Each Person operates in a distinct yet harmonious role—the Son in obedience and humility, the Spirit in anointing and empowering, and the Father in affirmation and divine approval. Together, they reveal a unity of essence but distinction in personhood and function. This teaches us that the nature of God is triune: not three gods, but one God in three co-eternal, co-equal Persons, eternally in communion and mission.

Read John 14:16-26

— How does Jesus distinguish between Himself, the Father, and the Holy Spirit?

— What unique roles does each person fulfill?

COMMENT: In John 14:16–26, Jesus distinctly identifies Himself, the Father, and the Holy Spirit as three separate Persons within the Godhead, each with a unique role in the divine plan. Jesus, speaking to His disciples, promises to ask the Father to send "another Helper," referring to the Holy Spirit. This clearly shows distinction: Jesus is the one making the request, the Father is the one being asked, and the Spirit is the one being sent. The roles are likewise differentiated—Jesus is the incarnate Son who reveals the Father and redeems humanity; the Father is the source and sender, the initiator of the redemptive mission; and the Holy Spirit is the abiding presence, the Comforter who teaches, reminds, and dwells within believers. Together, they work in perfect unity, but their actions and relationships reveal a clear personal distinction, underscoring the Trinitarian nature of God: one divine essence expressed in three co-equal, co-eternal Persons, each fully God and fully involved in the life of the believer.

2. Unity of the Godhead

Read John 10:30 and John 17:11, 21-22

— What kind of unity does Jesus describe between Himself and the Father?

— How is this unity a model for believers?

COMMENT: In John 10:30, Jesus proclaims, “I and the Father are one,” affirming a profound ontological unity between Himself and the Father—a unity of essence, will, and divine nature. This declaration emphasizes that while Jesus and the Father are distinct Persons, they are inseparably one in being. In John 17:11 and verses 21–22, Jesus expands on this unity in His high priestly prayer, asking the Father to keep His followers unified “even as we are one.” This reveals not only the internal unity within the Godhead but also its role as the divine blueprint for the Church. The unity shared by the Father and the Son is the model for relational unity among believers—marked by mutual indwelling, love, and shared purpose. Such spiritual oneness reflects the divine harmony and serves as a witness to the world of the truth and glory of God’s nature and mission through Christ.

Read 1 Corinthians 8:6

— How does Paul affirm both the unity of God and the distinct roles of Father and Son?

Answer: In 1 Corinthians 8:6, Paul affirms both the unity of God and the distinct roles of the Father and the Son in a single, theologically rich sentence: “Yet for us there is but one God, the Father, from whom all things came and for whom we live; and there is but one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things came and through whom we live.” Here, Paul clearly upholds monotheism—“one God”—while simultaneously distinguishing between the Father and the Son. The Father is identified as the ultimate source of all things and the goal of creation, while the Son is presented as the divine agent through whom creation and redemption flow. This distinction in role and function does not imply inequality or separation but reveals a harmonious, co-dependent relationship within the Godhead. Thus, Paul encapsulates the unity of divine essence and the diversity of divine persons, laying a foundational text for the Christian doctrine of the Trinity.

3. Equal Divinity

Examine these passages about each person's divine nature:

The Father: Isaiah 44:6, 1 Timothy 1:17

The Son: John 1:1, Colossians 2:9, Hebrews 1:3

The Holy Spirit: Acts 5:3-4, 1 Corinthians 2:10-11

Discussion: How do these passages demonstrate that each person of the Trinity possesses the full nature of God?

Answer: The equal divinity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is clearly affirmed throughout Scripture, with each Person described as fully and truly God. Isaiah 44:6 and 1 Timothy 1:17 declare the Father as eternal, sovereign, and the only wise God, emphasizing His absolute deity and supremacy. The Son is likewise affirmed as divine in passages such as John 1:1, which identifies the Word (Jesus) as both with God and fully God; Colossians 2:9 declares that in Christ “the fullness of Deity dwells bodily,” and Hebrews 1:3 reveals Him as “the radiance of God’s glory and the exact representation of His being,” underscoring His co-equal and co-eternal status with the Father. The Holy Spirit’s divinity is revealed in Acts 5:3–4, where lying to the Spirit is equated with lying to God, and in 1 Corinthians 2:10–11, which attributes to the Spirit the capacity to search and know the deep things of God—something only possible for a divine Person. Together, these texts testify that each Person of the Trinity possesses the full nature of God: eternal, omniscient, omnipotent, and worthy of worship. The distinction of roles among the Persons does not imply subordination in essence but reveals the richness and unity of the divine being shared equally by Father, Son, and Spirit.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

1. In Prayer

— How might understanding the Trinity enrich our prayer life?

— Do you naturally pray to different persons of the Trinity at different times? Why?

COMMENT: In Prayer: Understanding the Trinity profoundly enriches our prayer life by inviting us into the divine fellowship of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Prayer is no longer a vague spiritual exercise but a personal communion with the triune God who relates to us in distinct ways. We pray to the Father, through the Son, and by the Holy Spirit, aligning with the biblical pattern of intercession and access (Ephesians 2:18). This structure deepens our sense of intimacy and reverence, as we recognize that the Son mediates our prayers and the Spirit helps us in our weakness (Romans 8:26). Many believers naturally find themselves praying to different Persons of the Trinity depending on need and circumstance—petitioning the Father for provision, seeking Christ’s mercy and companionship, or invoking the Spirit for guidance and comfort. Such practice reflects the richness of God’s triune nature and His multifaceted relationship with us.

2. In Worship

— How does Trinitarian theology affect how we worship?

— What does it mean to worship "in Spirit and in truth" (John 4:24)?

COMMENT: In Worship: Trinitarian theology shapes our worship by orienting us toward a God who is both unity and diversity—worthy of praise in His relational fullness. Worship that honors the Trinity acknowledges the Father as Creator, the Son as Redeemer, and the Spirit as Sanctifier. This multidimensional view compels us toward deeper adoration and wonder, as we celebrate not only God's greatness but also His nearness and love expressed in the roles of each divine Person. When Jesus teaches in John 4:24 that true worship must be “in Spirit and in truth,” He is calling for worship that is both spiritually alive—animated by the Holy Spirit—and grounded in the reality of God as revealed in Christ, the Truth (John 14:6). Worship becomes not merely an emotional experience but an encounter with the Triune God, rooted in sound doctrine and moved by heartfelt devotion.

3. In Christian Living

— How does the Trinity model relationships and community?

— What can we learn about love from the eternal relationship within the Trinity?

COMMENT: In Christian Living: The Trinity serves as the ultimate model for relationships, community, and love. The eternal fellowship among the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit reveals a perfect communion marked by mutual love, submission, and unity without hierarchy or conflict. This relational dynamic becomes the pattern for human relationships, especially within the body of Christ. Just as the triune God exists in harmonious interdependence, so believers are called to live in unity, bearing one another’s burdens and reflecting divine love in community. Furthermore, the Trinity teaches us that love is not self-centered but other-oriented: the Father loves the Son, the Son glorifies the Father, and the Spirit glorifies the Son (John 17:24; John 16:14). In Christian living, this means cultivating a love that gives, honors, and serves—mirroring the self-giving nature of divine love that has existed before the foundation of the world.

COMMON QUESTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS:

— "How can three equal one?"

The question of how three can equal one lies at the heart of the mystery of the Trinity. Christianity does not claim that God is three in the same way that He is one; rather, God is one in essence and three in person. The divine nature—what God is—is singular and undivided, while the Persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—are distinct in relation and role. Think of it like H₂O - whether ice, water, or steam, it's still the same substance in different forms, though this analogy has limitations. This is not a mathematical contradiction, but a theological distinction: one What (essence) and three Whos (persons). Each Person is fully God, not a part of God, and yet there is not a plurality of gods. This profound unity-in-diversity reflects a God whose very being is relational and eternally self-giving, transcending human categories but not violating reason when rightly understood.

— "Why is this doctrine important?"

It reveals the relational nature of God - God is love because love requires relationship

It shows how salvation works - the Father sends, the Son redeems, the Spirit applies

The doctrine of the Trinity is foundational to the Christian faith because it protects the truth about who God is and how He works in creation and salvation. Without the Trinity, the gospel loses coherence—there would be no Son to redeem, no Spirit to indwell, and no Father to send and love. The Trinity reveals a God who is love in His very nature, not merely in His actions. It grounds the relational aspect of human existence, provides the framework for prayer and worship, and safeguards the unity and diversity within the Church. To abandon or neglect this doctrine is to misunderstand the nature of God as revealed in Scripture and to distort the essence of the Christian message.

QUOTES:

C.S. Lewis: "All sorts of people are fond of repeating the Christian statement that 'God is love.' But they seem not to notice that the words 'God is love' have no real meaning unless God contains at least two persons. Love is something that one person has for another person. If God was a single person, then before the world was made, He was not love."

J.I. Packer “The doctrine springs from the facts that the New Testament historians report, and from the revelatory teaching that, humanly speaking, grew out of these facts. So we read the trinitarian blessing of 2 Corinthians 13:14, and the prayer for grace and peace from the Father, the Spirit, and Jesus Christ in Revelation 1:4-5.”

Charles Spurgeon: "It needs the Trinity to make a Christian, it needs the Trinity to cheer a Christian, it needs the Trinity to complete a Christian, it needs the Trinity to create in a Christian the hope of glory."

MEMORY VERSE: 2 Corinthians 13:14 - "May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all."

REFLECTION QUESTIONS:

— How has this study deepened your understanding of God's character?

— Which aspect of the Trinity do you feel you know least about? How might you grow in that area?

— How can understanding God as Trinity impact your daily relationship with Him this week?

Session 2: God's Eternal and Unchanging Nature

—Printable Download

In a world of constant change and uncertainty, we find great comfort in knowing that God never changes. Unlike everything else in creation that has a beginning and an end, God exists outside of time - He is eternal. Unlike human nature that shifts with circumstances, God's character, promises, and love remain absolutely constant. Today we'll explore what Scripture teaches about God's eternal nature and His unchanging character.

Primary Texts on God's Eternal Nature:

Psalm 90:2 - "Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God."

Isaiah 40:28 - "Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom."

1 Timothy 1:17 - "Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen."

Primary Texts on God's Unchanging Nature:

Malachi 3:6 - "I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed."

James 1:17 - "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."

Hebrews 13:8 - "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever."

Supporting Passages:

Psalm 102:25-27 - "In the beginning you laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. They will perish, but you remain; they will all wear out like a garment. Like clothing you will change them and they will be discarded. But you remain the same, and your years will never end."

Numbers 23:19 - "God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind. Does he speak and then not act? Does he promise and not fulfill?"

STUDY QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION:

1. Understanding God's Eternal Nature

Read Psalm 90:1-6

— What does Moses contrast between God and humanity in these verses?

— How does verse 4 help us understand God's relationship to time?

— What comfort does God's eternal nature provide in times of loss and grief?

COMMENT: In Psalm 90:1–6, Moses draws a vivid contrast between the eternal, unchanging nature of God and the fleeting, fragile life of humanity. While God is described as a dwelling place “from everlasting to everlasting,” human beings are likened to grass that flourishes in the morning but withers by evening. Verse 4 deepens this contrast by declaring that “a thousand years in Your sight are like a day that has just gone by,” highlighting that God exists outside the confines of time. This truth reminds us that God is not subject to the limitations of mortality, decay, or time-bound uncertainty. In seasons of loss and grief, God's eternal nature offers profound comfort: while our days may feel transient and uncertain, we are anchored in a God who remains constant and sovereign across all generations. He is not only present in our past and future, but intimately present in every moment, offering hope that transcends temporal sorrow.

Read Revelation 1:8 and 22:13

— What do the titles "Alpha and Omega" and "First and Last" tell us about God's eternal nature?

— How does knowing God has no beginning or end affect your view of His promises?

COMMENT: The titles “Alpha and Omega” and “First and Last” in Revelation 1:8 and 22:13 powerfully affirm God’s eternal and self-existent nature. These phrases declare that God is the origin and the end of all things—the beginning before beginnings and the fulfillment beyond endings. They reflect both His supremacy over time and His absolute authority over history. Knowing that God has no beginning or end assures believers that His promises are not fleeting or circumstantial. His faithfulness is not subject to change or decay, for He Himself transcends time and remains eternally steadfast. This eternal nature grounds our trust in His covenantal promises, giving us confidence that what He has spoken will be fulfilled—because He is the unchanging One who governs all of history from start to finish with divine wisdom and power.

2. God's Unchanging Character

Read Malachi 3:6-7

— In context, why is God's unchanging nature good news for His people?

— How does God's consistency contrast with human inconsistency?

COMMENT: In Malachi 3:6–7, God declares, “I the LORD do not change,” reassuring Israel that His unchanging nature is the very reason they have not been consumed despite their repeated disobedience. This constancy is good news for God’s people because it means His covenant promises remain steadfast even when they are unfaithful. While human beings waver—straying from God's statutes and needing constant calls to repentance—God remains firm in His mercy, justice, and desire for restoration. His immutability guarantees that His love, holiness, and faithfulness are not subject to mood or moment, providing a secure foundation for repentance, forgiveness, and renewed relationship. In contrast to our fluctuating nature, God’s unwavering character is the anchor that holds the covenantal relationship together.

Read James 1:16-18

— What aspects of God's character does James say never change?

— How does this apply to God's goodness and His gifts to us?

COMMENT: James highlights the unchanging goodness of God by describing Him as the source of “every good and perfect gift,” with no “variation or shadow due to change.” This imagery draws from the constancy of the heavens—unlike shifting shadows, God is always radiant and benevolent. James affirms that God’s moral character does not alter; He remains ever generous, righteous, and faithful. This unwavering nature is also reflected in His saving work: by His own will, He brought us forth by the word of truth, marking us as a kind of firstfruits of His new creation. For believers, this means that God's gifts—whether spiritual or material—are rooted in a stable and trustworthy nature. His goodness is not circumstantial or sporadic; it flows continually from who He is. We can rest in the assurance that the God who gave us life will not suddenly act against His nature, and His promises to bless, save, and sustain us remain eternally reliable.

3. Implications of God's Immutability

Read Numbers 23:19 and 1 Samuel 15:29

— What does it mean that God doesn't "change his mind" like humans do?

COMMENT: In both Numbers 23:19 and 1 Samuel 15:29, God’s immutability is clearly stated: unlike humans, He does not lie, regret, or change His mind. This means that God's will is not impulsive or erratic; He does not vacillate due to emotional shifts or new information, as humans often do. His purposes are fixed, rooted in perfect wisdom and foreknowledge. When Scripture affirms that God does not change His mind, it emphasizes His reliability—He will not go back on His word or alter His promises. Unlike human leaders, whose intentions may falter under pressure or ignorance, God's decrees are unshakeable, emerging from an eternally wise and sovereign mind.

— How do we reconcile this with passages where God seems to respond to prayer or repentance?

COMMENT: While some passages depict God as “relenting” or “changing” in response to prayer or repentance—such as in Jonah 3 or Exodus 32—these should be understood not as changes in God’s nature or eternal purpose, but as manifestations of His consistent character within unfolding human history. God's immutability includes His faithfulness to His own character: He is merciful to the repentant and just toward the rebellious. Thus, when people change, God’s relational stance toward them also shifts, but in a way entirely consistent with His eternal nature. His responses are not reactions driven by new information, but rather expressions of His unchanging righteousness and compassion, preordained within His sovereign will. God's "relenting" reflects not a changed mind, but a foreknown and foreordained outcome aligned with His perfect justice and mercy.

Note: God's responses to our prayers and repentance don't represent changes in His nature, but rather His consistent character responding to changed circumstances according to His eternal plan.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

1. In Times of Uncertainty

Read Isaiah 26:4 and Psalm 46:1-3

— How can God's unchanging nature provide stability when life feels chaotic?

— Share a time when remembering God's faithfulness helped you through difficulty.

COMMENT: In seasons of instability and upheaval, God's unchanging nature serves as an immovable anchor for the soul. Isaiah 26:4 calls us to "trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD, the LORD himself, is the Rock eternal," affirming that while the world shifts beneath our feet, God remains constant and unshakable. Similarly, Psalm 46:1–3 depicts God as a refuge and strength even when “the earth gives way” and “mountains fall into the heart of the sea.” The language of cataclysm highlights how chaotic life can become, yet the assurance of God's stability comforts and steadies believers. Unlike worldly sources of security that falter under pressure, God’s immutability provides enduring peace, assuring us that His presence and purposes do not change regardless of circumstance.

2. Trusting God's Promises

Read 2 Corinthians 1:20 and Titus 1:2

— How does God's unchanging nature guarantee His promises?

— Which of God's promises do you most need to remember today?

COMMENT: God’s unchanging nature guarantees the absolute reliability of His promises. In 2 Corinthians 1:20, Paul declares that “all the promises of God find their Yes in [Christ],” pointing to the consistency and fulfillment of God’s word through Jesus. There is no wavering, no change of mind—what God has spoken, He will bring to pass. Titus 1:2 further underscores this by affirming that God “never lies” and has promised eternal life “before the ages began.” His immutability means His promises are rooted not in shifting emotions or circumstances, but in His eternal truthfulness and faithfulness. Therefore, believers can confidently anchor their hope in God’s word, knowing it cannot fail because the One who speaks it does not change.

3. Finding Security in Relationships

Read Psalm 27:10 and Isaiah 49:15-16

— How does God's eternal, unchanging love differ from human love?

— What security does this provide for our relationship with Him?

COMMENT: Human love, though sincere, is often marked by limitation and change—relationships falter, and people abandon or forget one another. In contrast, God's love is eternal, unwavering, and deeply personal. Psalm 27:10 affirms that even if “my father and mother forsake me, the LORD will receive me,” highlighting divine love as a refuge when human relationships disappoint. Isaiah 49:15–16 draws an even more tender image: even a nursing mother may forget her child, but God never will—He has engraved His people on the palms of His hands. This metaphor emphasizes permanence, attentiveness, and sacrificial devotion. God's unchanging love gives believers lasting security in a world where affection can fade, assuring us that His commitment is never withdrawn and His care never ceases.

4. Facing Aging and Mortality

Read 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

— How does God's Eternal Nature help us process our own aging and mortality?

— What hope does His unchanging nature provide for the future?

COMMENT: As we face the realities of aging and mortality, God's eternal nature provides a perspective that transcends the decay of the body and the brevity of life. Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 4:16–18 that “though outwardly we are wasting away, inwardly we are being renewed day by day,” inviting believers to fix their eyes not on what is seen and temporary, but on what is unseen and eternal. The knowledge that God is eternal and that He draws us into that eternity reframes the aging process—not as a descent into oblivion, but as a journey toward an everlasting glory that far outweighs the present struggles. God's unchanging nature assures us that our hope is not bound to the limitations of time or the frailty of the flesh, but grounded in the promise of resurrection and eternal life in His unshakable presence.

Contrasts That Highlight God's Nature

Things That Change:

Our circumstances (Job 14:1-2)

Our feelings and emotions (Psalm 42:5)

Human relationships (Psalm 146:3-4)

Our physical bodies (2 Corinthians 4:16)

The world around us (1 John 2:17)

What Never Changes About God:

His love (Jeremiah 31:3)

His faithfulness (Lamentations 3:22-23)

His justice (Deuteronomy 32:4)

His mercy (Psalm 136 - "His love endures forever")

His Word (Isaiah 40:8, Matthew 24:35)

COMMON QUESTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS:

— "If God doesn't change, how do we explain verses where He seems to change His mind?"

COMMENT: Passages that describe God as “changing His mind” (such as in Jonah 3:10 or Exodus 32:14) must be understood in light of the broader biblical teaching on His immutability. These texts use anthropomorphic language—describing God’s actions in human terms to help us grasp His relational engagement with creation. They do not indicate that God’s character, will, or purposes fluctuate, but rather that His consistent moral nature includes a responsive dynamic to human repentance or sin. When people turn from evil, God consistently responds with mercy; when they rebel, He consistently responds with judgment. These “changes” are not evidence of instability in God, but demonstrations of His unwavering righteousness and compassion operating in time. His eternal will includes the way He responds to human decisions—foreseen and ordained within His sovereign plan. God's principles never change, but His actions may vary based on human response to His call for repentance.

— "Does God's unchanging nature mean He doesn't feel or respond to us?"

COMMENT: God’s unchanging nature does not imply emotional detachment or impassivity. Rather, it means that His responses are perfectly consistent with His eternal character—He is not governed by moods or shifting emotions as humans are, but He genuinely relates to His creation with compassion, justice, and love. Scripture repeatedly affirms God's responsiveness: He hears prayer, grieves over sin, rejoices in righteousness, and comforts the brokenhearted. These are not reactions driven by surprise or change within Himself but are expressions of His immutable attributes—His love, holiness, and mercy—interacting with the changing realities of human experience. Thus, God is deeply involved and emotionally engaged with His people, yet never compromised by volatility or contradiction. His constancy makes His care dependable and His love enduring.

QUOTES:

A.W. Tozer (Preacher and Theologian)

"What peace it brings to the Christian’s heart to realize that our Heavenly Father never differs from Himself. In coming to Him at any time, we need not wonder whether we shall find Him in a receptive mood. He is always receptive to misery and need, as well as to love and faith. He does not keep office hours nor set aside periods when He will see no one. Neither does He change His mind about anything." — A.W. Tozer, The Knowledge of the Holy

Charles Spurgeon (Prince of Preachers)

"The unchangeableness of our God is a very delightful subject. Believer, rest assured that the God who loved you before you were created, loves you still the same. He who was your God in the days of your youth, is your God still, and will be your God even to hoar hairs." — Charles H. Spurgeon, Sermon on Malachi 3:6

J.I. Packer (Theologian and Church Historian)

"God does not change. His character, His purposes, and His promises stand. He is dependable, and we can rely on Him fully. All the ground for faith and hope, all the comfort in the promises of God, rests on the truth that God is immutable." — J.I. Packer, Knowing God

Memory Verse

James 1:17 - "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."

CLOSING REFLECTIONS QUESTIONS:

— What area of your life needs the security of knowing God never changes?

— How can remembering God's Eternal Nature change your perspective on current struggles?

— Which aspect of God's unchanging character do you most need to rely on this week?

Session 3: God as Spirit

—Printable Download

When Jesus spoke to the Samaritan woman at the well, He made a profound declaration: "God is spirit." This fundamental truth about God's nature shapes everything about how we relate to Him, worship Him, and understand His presence in our lives. Unlike physical beings bound by space and time, God exists as pure spirit - invisible, unlimited, and present everywhere. Today we'll explore what it means that God is spirit and how this truth transforms our faith.

Primary Texts on God's Spiritual Nature:

John 4:24 - "God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship him in the Spirit and in truth."

Supporting Passages on God's Spiritual Nature:

Luke 24:39 - "Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see; a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have." (Jesus distinguishing His physical resurrection body from spiritual beings)

1 Timothy 1:17 - "Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever."

Colossians 1:15 - "The Son is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation."

1 Timothy 6:16 - "Who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see."

God's Spiritual Presence:

Psalm 139:7-10 - "Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there."

Jeremiah 23:23-24 - "'Am I only a God nearby,' declares the Lord, 'and not a God far away? Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?' declares the Lord. 'Do not I fill heaven and earth?' declares the Lord."

Acts 17:27-28 - "God did this so that they would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from any one of us. 'For in him we live and move and have our being.'"

STUDY QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION:

1. Understanding God's Spiritual Nature

Read John 4:19-26 (The Woman at the Well)

— What was the Samaritan woman's concern about where to worship God?

— How does Jesus' answer about God being spirit address her question?

— What does it mean to worship "in the Spirit and in truth"?

Read 1 Kings 19:11-13 (Elijah and the "gentle whisper")

— How did God reveal Himself to Elijah?

— What does this teach us about God's spiritual nature versus dramatic physical displays?

— How do we "hear" God's voice today?

COMMENT: In Elijah’s encounter with God on Mount Horeb, the prophet experiences a series of dramatic natural events—a windstorm, an earthquake, and a fire—but God is not in any of these. Instead, God reveals Himself in a “gentle whisper,” or more literally, a “still small voice.” This moment offers a crucial insight into God’s spiritual nature: He is not primarily revealed through overwhelming external force, but through intimate, quiet communication with the soul. It challenges our assumptions about divine manifestation, emphasizing that God often speaks in ways that are spiritually perceptible rather than physically spectacular. Today, we "hear" God's voice through the indwelling Holy Spirit who illuminates Scripture, convicts the heart, and guides believers in truth. The spiritual nature of God means that His presence is accessible not through grandiose signs, but through humble attentiveness and a heart tuned to His whisper.

2. Implications of God Being Spirit

Read 2 Corinthians 3:17 and Galatians 5:25

— How does understanding God as spirit relate to the freedom we have in Christ?

— What does it mean to "live by the Spirit"?

COMMENT: Understanding that God is Spirit, as stated in 2 Corinthians 3:17—“where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom”—reveals that the presence of God brings liberation, not bondage. This freedom is not merely political or emotional; it is spiritual freedom from sin, legalism, and death. In Christ, the Spirit releases believers from the condemnation of the Law and empowers them to live according to God's will. Galatians 5:25 builds on this by exhorting believers to “live by the Spirit,” which means allowing the Spirit to govern one's desires, choices, and actions. It involves a continuous, active dependence on God's presence within us, leading to lives marked by love, joy, peace, and self-control. Living by the Spirit is thus both a gift and a calling: it is the natural outflow of God's spiritual nature working in us, shaping us into the image of Christ with increasing freedom and transformation.

Read Romans 8:26-27

— How does the Spirit help us in our spiritual relationship with God?

— What comfort does this provide when we struggle to pray?

COMMENT: Romans 8:26–27 speaks directly to the spiritual intimacy believers enjoy with God because of His Spirit. It acknowledges human weakness in prayer—our inability to express what we truly need or desire before God. In these moments, the Holy Spirit intercedes for us with “groanings too deep for words,” aligning our inarticulate longings with the will of God. This demonstrates that God's spiritual nature is not distant or abstract, but profoundly relational and present within us. The Spirit searches our hearts and brings our needs before the Father in perfect harmony with His purposes. This truth brings deep comfort: even when we are overwhelmed, confused, or silent before God, we are not spiritually paralyzed. The Spirit speaks on our behalf, sustaining our communion with God and ensuring that our prayers are heard and answered in love and wisdom.

Please act like a theologian addressing a subject of “God as Spirit” and convert these from question format into a condensed paragraph format and answer the questions using a paragraph each.

3. Worship and God's Spiritual Nature

Read John 4:23-24 again

— What kind of worshipers is the Father seeking?

— How is worshiping "in spirit" different from merely external religious acts?

— What does worshiping "in truth" mean?

COMMENT: In John 4:23–24, Jesus teaches that the Father seeks worshipers who worship “in spirit and in truth.” This signals a shift from external, location-based worship to an inward, spiritual communion with God. True worship is not confined to rituals, buildings, or cultural practices; it flows from a regenerated heart that is responsive to the Holy Spirit. Worshiping “in spirit” means engaging the whole inner person—mind, will, and emotions—in sincere devotion, not just performing religious acts. It requires the active participation of the Holy Spirit, who enables us to approach God intimately and authentically. Worshiping “in truth” means aligning our worship with the revelation of God in Christ, who is “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). It involves knowing God rightly, responding to His Word, and rejecting false notions or empty traditions. Together, spirit and truth define worship as both relational and theological—genuine adoration that springs from knowledge and love of the living God.

Compare 1 Samuel 16:7 with Matthew 15:8-9

— What does God value more - outward appearance or heart condition?

— How should this affect our approach to worship and prayer?

COMMENT: Both 1 Samuel 16:7 and Matthew 15:8–9 affirm that God values the inward condition of the heart over outward appearances or empty rituals. In 1 Samuel, God reminds Samuel that while humans look at the outward appearance, “the LORD looks at the heart.” This principle carries into Jesus’ rebuke of the Pharisees in Matthew, where He quotes Isaiah, saying, “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” Such worship is deemed vain because it is disconnected from genuine relationship and truth. These passages make it clear that God desires heartfelt devotion over mechanical religiosity. Therefore, in worship and prayer, our posture should not be about impressing others or fulfilling obligations, but about approaching God with sincerity, humility, and reverence. The heart—yielded, honest, and aligned with God’s Spirit—is the true altar where meaningful worship occurs.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

1. In Personal Worship

Read Matthew 6:5-8

— How does knowing God is spirit affect where and how we pray?

— What makes worship authentic versus merely going through motions?

— Share about a time when you felt especially close to God in worship.

COMMENT: Jesus teaches in Matthew 6:5–8 that authentic worship is not about public display or repetition, but about sincere communion with the unseen God. Since God is spirit, He is not confined to a particular place or form, and our prayers do not require elaborate rituals or public affirmation. Rather, prayer becomes an intimate, inward dialogue with the Father who “sees in secret.” Knowing God is spirit liberates worship from performance and externalism, calling us to approach Him with honesty, reverence, and dependence. True worship is authentic when it reflects a heart that desires God above all else—not when it merely goes through the motions or seeks the approval of others. The spiritual nature of God invites personal, heartfelt worship that flows from a relationship, not religious obligation.

2. In Understanding God's Presence

Read Matthew 18:20 and Matthew 28:20

— Since God is spirit, how is He present with us now?

— How does this truth comfort you when you feel alone?

— What difference does it make knowing God sees and knows everything about your life?

COMMENT: God’s spiritual nature assures us that He is present with His people in every place and moment. In Matthew 18:20, Jesus promises that “where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them,” and in Matthew 28:20, He reassures His disciples, “I am with you always.” As spirit, God is not limited by space or time; His presence is real, even when invisible. This truth offers deep comfort when we feel isolated or abandoned—He is closer than our breath, attentive to every cry and thought. Knowing that God sees and knows everything about us, including our fears, failures, and unspoken prayers, gives us assurance that we are never truly alone. His omnipresent Spirit walks with us in every moment, providing strength, guidance, and love.

3. In Relating to Others

Read 1 John 4:12 and 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

— Since we cannot see God directly, how do others see Him?

— How does the truth that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit affect daily living?

— What does it mean to be "God's temple" as a community of believers?

COMMENT: Since no one has seen God directly, 1 John 4:12 tells us that God’s presence is made visible through our love for one another. When believers embody the character of Christ in self-giving love, others see God at work in human relationships. Furthermore, Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 that our bodies are “temples of the Holy Spirit” elevates daily living with sacred significance. Because God’s Spirit dwells in us, our conduct, choices, and interactions should reflect His holiness and love. This also extends to the Church as a whole—collectively, believers are the temple of God (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:16), a living community through which His Spirit dwells and is revealed to the world. As God's temple, we are called to honor Him in unity, purity, and mutual love, testifying to His reality in a visible, embodied way.

4. In Seeking God

Read Hebrews 11:6 and Jeremiah 29:13

— How do we seek a God we cannot see with physical eyes?

— What role does faith play in relating to a spiritual God?

— How has your understanding of seeking God changed over the years?

COMMENT: To seek a God who is spirit requires faith—trust in what cannot be seen with physical eyes but is discerned through spiritual conviction. Hebrews 11:6 emphasizes that “without faith it is impossible to please God,” because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him. Jeremiah 29:13 echoes this with the promise that those who seek God with all their heart will surely find Him. Seeking God, then, involves a posture of humility, trust, and spiritual attentiveness. It means engaging our hearts and minds in pursuit of His presence, through prayer, Scripture, and obedience. Faith bridges the gap between the unseen and the known, enabling us to walk with the invisible yet ever-present God, drawing near with confidence that He is both real and relational.

CONTRASTS THAT ILLUMINATE TRUTH:

Physical Limitations:

Bound by space and time

Visible but temporary

Limited to one place at a time

Subject to decay and death

God's Spiritual Nature:

Present everywhere simultaneously (omnipresent)

Invisible but eternal

Not limited by physical boundaries

Unchanging and eternal

External vs. Internal Focus

External Religion (What God Doesn't Primarily Want):

Going through religious motions

Impressive outward displays

Worship focused on location or ritual

Performance for human approval

Spiritual Worship (What God Desires):

Sincere heart attitude

Authentic relationship

Truth-based devotion

Worship from the heart regardless of location

QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION:

— "If God is spirit, how can the Bible speak of God's 'hands,' 'eyes,' etc.?"

COMMENT: When Scripture speaks of God's "hands," "eyes," or "face," it is using anthropomorphic language—figurative expressions that attribute human characteristics to God in order to help finite beings understand His actions and attributes. These descriptions are not literal depictions of God's essence but metaphorical tools that communicate His power (hands), knowledge (eyes), or presence (face) in terms humans can relate to. Since God is spirit (John 4:24), He does not possess a physical body like humans. However, the Bible accommodates our limited understanding by portraying divine realities in familiar human terms. These expressions highlight God's personal engagement with His creation without suggesting that His spiritual nature is material or confined to a bodily form.

— "How can we have a relationship with someone we can't see?"

COMMENT: Though God is invisible to the physical eye, He is deeply knowable and relational. Just as we form relationships with people through their voice, actions, and character before ever seeing them in person, so too we relate to God through His Word, His Spirit, and His presence in our lives. Faith is the key by which we connect to the unseen God (Hebrews 11:1, 6). Through prayer, Scripture, worship, and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, we engage in real communion with Him. Jesus, the visible image of the invisible God (Colossians 1:15), reveals God’s heart and makes relationship with the Father accessible. Though unseen, God is not distant; He makes Himself known in spiritual and experiential ways that are just as real—and often more enduring—than physical presence.

— "Does being spirit make God less real than physical things?"

COMMENT: On the contrary, God's spiritual nature makes Him more real, not less. Physical things are subject to decay, change, and limitation, whereas spirit is eternal, unbound, and unchanging. God’s reality is not dependent on material form; in fact, all physical reality exists because of the spiritual reality of God (Hebrews 11:3). His being as spirit means He transcends the limitations of space and time, present in all places, sovereign over all creation. Far from diminishing His existence, His immaterial nature emphasizes His supreme reality as the eternal, self-existent One. As Jesus said, it is the Spirit who gives life (John 6:63), and to know the Spirit of God is to engage with the source of all that is truly alive and lasting.

QUOTES:

Augustine of Hippo (Church Father and Theologian) "God is not to be thought of as having a body, for He is a Spirit; and a spirit does not consist of parts, nor is it confined to one place. He is everywhere, wholly present."

Jonathan Edwards (Revivalist Preacher and Theologian) "God is a spiritual and infinitely perfect being, and as such is invisible and not to be represented by anything material. We must worship Him as such—purely, spiritually, with reverence and awe."

R.C. Sproul (Theologian and Church Historian) "God is spirit. That means He is not limited by a physical body. He transcends all the limitations of material existence. His essence is not confined to one place at a time—He is everywhere present, fully and completely."

Memory Verse

John 4:24 - "God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship him in the Spirit and in truth."

CLOSING REFLECTIONS QUESTIONS:

— How does understanding God as spirit change your approach to prayer and worship?

— What helps you feel most connected to God's spiritual presence?

— In what area of your life do you need to move from external religion to authentic spiritual relationship?

Session 4: God's Holiness

—Printable Download

Of all God's attributes, holiness may be the most fundamental. When the seraphim worship God in Isaiah's vision, they don't cry "Love, love, love" or "Mighty, mighty, mighty" - they declare "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty!" God's holiness means He is completely separate from and opposed to all sin and evil. He is morally perfect, pure, and set apart. But God's holiness isn't just about His separation from sin - it's also His call for us to be set apart for His purposes. Today we'll explore what Scripture teaches about God's holiness and what it means for our lives.

Primary Texts on God's Holiness:

Isaiah 6:3 - "And they were calling to one another: 'Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory.'"

1 Samuel 2:2 - "There is no one holy like the Lord; there is no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God."

Revelation 4:8 - "Each of the four living creatures had six wings and was covered with eyes all around, even under its wings. Day and night they never stop saying: 'Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, and is, and is to come.'"

God's Call to Holiness:

Leviticus 11:44 - "I am the Lord your God; consecrate yourselves and be holy, because I am holy."

1 Peter 1:15-16 - "But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'"

2 Corinthians 7:1 - "Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God."

Supporting Passages:

Psalm 99:3, 5, 9 - "Let them praise your great and awesome name— he is holy... Exalt the Lord our God and worship at his footstool; he is holy... Exalt the Lord our God and worship at his holy mountain, for the Lord our God is holy."

Joshua 24:19 - "Joshua said to the people, 'You are not able to serve the Lord. He is a holy God; he is a jealous God. He will not forgive your rebellion and your sins.'"

Habakkuk 1:13 - "Your eyes are too pure to look on evil; you cannot tolerate wrongdoing."

STUDY QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION:

1. Understanding God's Holiness

Read Isaiah 6:1-8 (Isaiah's Vision)

— How did Isaiah react when he saw God's holiness?

— What was Isaiah's immediate concern about himself?

— How did God address Isaiah's sense of unworthiness?

— What was Isaiah's response after being cleansed?

Read Exodus 3:1-6 (The Burning Bush)

— Why did God tell Moses to remove his sandals?

— What does "holy ground" teach us about God's presence?

— How should we approach God today?

COMMENT: In Isaiah 6:1–8, the prophet is overwhelmed by a vision of God’s majestic holiness, seated on a high throne, surrounded by seraphim crying out, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts.” Isaiah’s immediate reaction is one of utter dread and self-awareness—he cries, “Woe is me! I am lost,” recognizing his unclean lips and the impurity of his people. Confronted with divine holiness, Isaiah perceives his moral and spiritual unworthiness. God responds to Isaiah’s brokenness with grace: a seraph touches his lips with a burning coal from the altar, symbolizing cleansing and atonement. Once purified, Isaiah’s posture shifts from fear to availability, and he responds eagerly to God’s call, saying, “Here am I. Send me.” In Exodus 3:1–6, Moses also encounters God’s holiness at the burning bush. God commands Moses to remove his sandals, a symbolic act acknowledging the sanctity of divine presence. The ground becomes “holy” not by its nature but because God is there. This teaches that wherever God dwells becomes sacred, and thus, we are to approach Him with reverence and humility today—recognizing His holiness and our dependence upon His grace.

2. The Nature of Holiness

Read 1 John 1:5 and James 1:13

— What do these verses tell us about God's relationship to sin and evil?

— How is God's holiness different from human attempts at goodness?

Read Psalm 24:3-4

— What kind of person can approach God's holy presence?

— How does this standard compare to our natural condition?

COMMENT: 1 John 1:5 declares that “God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all,” and James 1:13 affirms that God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He tempt anyone. These verses emphasize that God’s holiness is absolute and morally perfect—He is entirely separate from sin and corruption. Unlike human beings, who often pursue moral good with mixed motives or fall short despite intentions, God’s holiness is intrinsic, eternal, and untainted. Psalm 24:3–4 asks who may ascend the hill of the Lord and answers- only those with “clean hands and a pure heart,” who have not lifted their souls to falsehood or sworn deceitfully. This standard reveals a profound truth—God’s holiness demands absolute purity, and only the blameless can stand in His presence. When compared to our natural condition, we see the vast chasm between God’s holiness and human frailty, exposing our deep need for divine intervention.

3. Our Response to God's Holiness

Read Romans 3:23 and Isaiah 64:6

— How do these verses describe our condition in light of God's holiness?

— Why is it impossible for us to make ourselves holy enough for God?

Read 2 Corinthians 5:21 and Hebrews 10:10, 14

— How does God make it possible for unholy people to approach Him?

— What has Christ accomplished for us regarding holiness?

COMMENT: Romans 3:23 states plainly that “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,” and Isaiah 64:6 portrays our best efforts at righteousness as “filthy rags” in light of God’s holiness. These verses reveal that our condition is universally marred by sin, making it impossible for us to attain the holiness required to stand before God. Human striving cannot bridge the gap between our sinfulness and God’s perfection. However, God Himself has made a way. In 2 Corinthians 5:21, we learn that God made Christ, who knew no sin, to be sin for us so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. Hebrews 10:10 and 10:14 explain that through the once-for-all sacrifice of Christ, believers are sanctified and made holy. Christ’s perfect life, sacrificial death, and resurrection have accomplished for us what we could never do ourselves—He has made it possible for unholy people to approach a holy God, not by merit but by grace through faith.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

1. In Worship and Reverence

Read Ecclesiastes 5:1-2 and Hebrews 12:28-29

— How should understanding God's holiness affect our worship?

— What does it mean to approach God with "reverent awe"?

— Share about a time when you felt especially aware of God's holiness in worship.

COMMENT: The holiness of God profoundly shapes our posture in worship, as seen in Ecclesiastes 5:1–2 and Hebrews 12:28–29. When we understand that we are approaching a God who is a “consuming fire,” our worship must be characterized by reverent awe, not casual familiarity. Ecclesiastes warns us to guard our steps and words when we come before God, reminding us that He is in heaven and we are on earth—highlighting the vast gulf between the divine and human. Worship, therefore, is not merely an emotional expression or routine duty but a sacred encounter with the holy. Reverent awe means approaching God with a heart humbled by His majesty, surrendered to His authority, and mindful of our dependence on His grace. It tempers our songs, our prayers, and our gathering with deep respect and joy that is rooted in who God truly is—not who we imagine Him to be.

2. In Daily Living

Read 1 Thessalonians 4:3-7 and Ephesians 4:17-24

— What does it mean to live a holy life in practical terms?

— How does God's holiness motivate us to pursue righteousness?

— What areas of life does God call us to keep separate from worldly influences?

COMMENT: Living a holy life, as outlined in 1 Thessalonians 4:3–7 and Ephesians 4:17–24, means intentionally separating ourselves from impurity and aligning every part of life with the character of God. It is a call not just to avoid sin, but to be transformed in the spirit of our minds, putting off the old self corrupted by deceitful desires and putting on the new self, created after God’s likeness in true righteousness and holiness. God’s holiness is not just a distant attribute; it becomes the compelling force behind our pursuit of righteousness. We are not merely called to believe differently but to live differently—guarding areas like sexuality, speech, integrity, and thought life from the influence of a fallen world. In practical terms, this means we reject practices and attitudes that normalize sin, and instead cultivate purity, truth, and love as reflections of God’s holy nature.

3. In Our Relationships

Read Matthew 5:8 and 1 John 3:2-3

— How does pursuing holiness affect our relationships with others?

— What does it mean to "purify ourselves" as believers?

— How can we help each other grow in holiness?

COMMENT: Holiness is not a private endeavor but deeply impacts our relationships, as Jesus declares in Matthew 5:8, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God,” and John affirms in 1 John 3:2–3 that those who have hope in Christ purify themselves. Pursuing holiness cultivates sincerity, compassion, and peace in our interactions with others, because a heart shaped by God’s purity cannot harbor deceit or malice. To "purify ourselves" means to actively remove what is unworthy or defiling from our lives—motivated not by fear but by love for Christ and hope in His return. It is both a personal commitment and a communal responsibility. We help one another grow in holiness by bearing each other’s burdens, speaking truth in love, encouraging one another in faithfulness, and holding each other accountable with grace. A holy community reflects the character of a holy God.

4. In Confession and Repentance

Read 1 John 1:8-10 and Psalm 51:1-4

— How does God's holiness make confession necessary?

— What comfort does God's holiness provide for dealing with sin?

— How often should believers examine their lives in light of God's holiness?

COMMENT: God’s holiness makes confession not optional, but essential. As 1 John 1:8–10 reminds us, denying our sin is self-deception, but confession brings forgiveness and cleansing because God is faithful and just. Psalm 51:1–4 exemplifies the right heart posture—a broken spirit that acknowledges sin as ultimately against God’s holiness. His holiness exposes our sin, but it also provides the assurance that He will deal with it justly and mercifully. This dual reality brings both conviction and comfort: we are not left in guilt, but invited into restoration. Therefore, examining our lives regularly—daily, even moment by moment—is vital for spiritual health. The more we meditate on God’s holiness, the more sensitive we become to our sin, and the more deeply we rejoice in His forgiveness. True repentance is not a one-time act but a lifelong turning toward the light of His purity.

Understanding Holiness: Two Aspects

1. Positional Holiness (What God Has Done)

Hebrews 10:10 - "We have been made holy through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all."

1 Corinthians 6:11 - "But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God."

This is our standing before God through Christ - we are declared holy.

2. Progressive Holiness (What We Do)

2 Corinthians 3:18 - "And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord's glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit."

Philippians 2:12-13 - "Continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose."

This is our growth in holy living - we are becoming holy in practice.

QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION:

— Please act like a theologian addressing a subject of “God's Holiness” and convert these from question format into a condensed paragraph format and answer the questions using a paragraph each.

— "If God is holy and cannot tolerate sin, how can He have a relationship with sinful people?"

COMMENT: God’s absolute holiness indeed means that He is utterly separate from sin and cannot approve of it (Habakkuk 1:13). This reality presents a fundamental problem for humanity: all have sinned and fall short of His glory (Romans 3:23), and no unclean thing can dwell in His presence. Yet, the marvel of the gospel is that God's holiness does not only demand separation—it also initiates reconciliation. God Himself provides the way for sinners to be made clean through the atoning work of Jesus Christ. In Christ, God's justice against sin is satisfied, and His mercy is magnified. As 2 Corinthians 5:21 declares, God made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God. This means that through faith, believers are clothed in the holiness of Christ, allowing a holy God to dwell with sinful people who have been made righteous by grace. Holiness is not compromised, but rather fulfilled through the cross.

— "Does pursuing holiness mean we become legalistic or joyless?"

COMMENT: Pursuing holiness does not lead to legalism or joylessness when rightly understood; rather, it leads to deeper freedom and fuller joy. Legalism arises when holiness is pursued apart from grace—when we try to earn God's favor through performance instead of living in response to His love. True holiness is not about rigid rule-keeping, but about being conformed to the character of God, who is both holy and full of joy (Psalm 16:11). The call to be holy is an invitation to live as we were created to live: free from the bondage of sin, reflecting the purity and love of God. As Hebrews 12:10 says, God disciplines us "that we may share His holiness," and this sharing leads to peace and righteousness. Holiness enhances joy because it removes the things that distort it—guilt, shame, selfishness—and replaces them with the fruits of the Spirit. Far from being joyless, a life of holiness is one of deepest satisfaction in God.

— "Can we really be holy like God is holy?"

COMMENT: When God commands His people to “be holy, for I am holy” (Leviticus 11:44; 1 Peter 1:15–16), He is not demanding an impossible standard in our own strength, but calling us into the transforming process of sanctification through His Spirit. We cannot be holy in the exact way or measure that God is, for His holiness is infinite, eternal, and uncreated. Yet we are called to reflect His holiness in our character and conduct—to be set apart from sin and devoted to His purposes. This is both a position and a process: in Christ, we are declared holy (justification), and through the Spirit, we are being made holy (sanctification). While perfect holiness awaits us in glorification, the present call is to grow in likeness to Christ. It is not our effort alone, but God's power at work in us (Philippians 2:13). So yes, we can be holy like God is holy—not in His divine perfection, but in sincere, growing conformity to His will. We can never be holy in the same way God is holy (absolutely perfect), but we can be holy in the sense of being set apart for God's purposes and growing in righteousness. God provides both the desire and the power for holy living.

QUOTES:

Augustine of Hippo (Church Father and Theologian) "God is not to be thought of as having a body, for He is a Spirit; and a spirit does not consist of parts, nor is it confined to one place. He is everywhere, wholly present." — St. Augustine, On the Trinity

Jonathan Edwards (Revivalist Preacher and Theologian) "God is a spiritual and infinitely perfect being, and as such is invisible and not to be represented by anything material. We must worship Him as such—purely, spiritually, with reverence and awe." — Jonathan Edwards, Miscellanies

R.C. Sproul (Theologian and Church Historian) "God is spirit. That means He is not limited by a physical body. He transcends all the limitations of material existence. His essence is not confined to one place at a time—He is everywhere present, fully and completely." — R.C. Sproul, Everyone’s a Theologian

Memory Verse

1 Peter 1:15-16 - "But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'"

CLOSING REFLECTIONS QUESTIONS:

— How has your understanding of God's holiness grown through this study?

— What area of your life needs to be more aligned with God's call to holiness?

— How can you better balance reverence for God's holiness with confidence in His grace?

Session 5: God's Love and Grace

—Printable Download

If God's holiness reveals His perfect purity, then God's love and grace reveal His perfect heart toward humanity. Love and grace work together as two sides of the same beautiful truth: God loves us deeply and personally, and His grace makes that love accessible to undeserving sinners. God's love is not merely an emotion He feels - it's His very essence. John tells us "God is love." His grace is His unmerited favor, giving us what we could never earn or deserve. Today we'll explore these magnificent attributes that form the foundation of our relationship with God.

Primary Texts on God's Love:

1 John 4:8, 16 - "Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love... And so we know and rely on the love God has for us. God is love."

John 3:16 - "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life."

Romans 5:8 - "But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us."

Primary Texts on God's Grace:

Ephesians 2:8-9 - "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast."

2 Corinthians 12:9 - "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.'"

Titus 2:11 - "For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people."

Supporting Passages:

Jeremiah 31:3 - "The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: 'I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.'"

Psalm 103:8-12 - "The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love... As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us."

Romans 8:38-39 - "For I am convinced that neither death nor life... nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."

2 Corinthians 9:8 - "And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work."

STUDY QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION:

1. Understanding God's Love

Read 1 John 4:7-12

— How does John define the source and nature of love?

— What is the ultimate demonstration of God's love?

— How should God's love affect our relationships with others?

COMMENT: In 1 John 4:7–12, the apostle John makes it clear that love originates in God Himself—"God is love" (v. 8)—not merely as an attribute among many, but as the very essence of His being. This divine love is not abstract but incarnational; it is most fully demonstrated in the sending of God's Son into the world so that we might live through Him (v. 9). The love of God is not a response to our worthiness, but rather a divine initiative that reconciles sinners through the self-giving sacrifice of Christ (v. 10). John’s conclusion is deeply ethical: since God has loved us in this profound and undeserved way, we are bound to love one another in the same manner. The love of God, when truly received, compels believers to embody that same love toward others, becoming tangible evidence of God's presence in a broken world. Thus, the vertical experience of God’s love must overflow into horizontal relationships within the community of faith and beyond.

Read Romans 5:6-8

— What was our condition when God demonstrated His love?

— How does this differ from human love that's usually based on merit?

— What does this teach us about the nature of God's love?

COMMENT: Paul’s words in Romans 5:6–8 reveal a love that defies human logic and conventional standards. While human love is often reserved for those who are lovable or worthy, God’s love is most vividly displayed "while we were still sinners" and "powerless"—spiritually helpless and undeserving. Christ died not for the righteous, but for the ungodly, which radically redefines the nature of love from a theological standpoint. This divine love is neither earned nor merited; it is rooted in God’s own gracious character. Unlike conditional human love, which is often transactional or reciprocal, God's love is sacrificial and unearned, flowing out of His grace. This teaches us that divine love is an act of sheer grace and initiative, demonstrating God's deep desire to restore humanity even at its worst. It is a love that seeks, sacrifices, and saves, and in doing so, lays the foundation for our assurance and hope.

2. The Characteristics of God's Love

Read Jeremiah 31:3 and Psalm 136 (note the refrain)

— What does "everlasting love" mean?

— How does God's love endure compared to human love?

— Share about a time when you experienced God's unfailing love.

COMMENT: In Jeremiah 31:3, God declares, “I have loved you with an everlasting love,” revealing a core aspect of divine love—it is eternal, not bound by time or circumstance. This contrasts sharply with human love, which is often fickle, conditional, and shaped by changeable emotions or experiences. Psalm 136 reinforces this truth through its resounding refrain: “His steadfast love endures forever.” Repeated in every verse, this phrase underscores the covenantal, faithful nature of God’s love—a love that does not waver with our failures or fluctuate with our spiritual temperature. God’s love is rooted in His unchanging character, not in our performance. Many can recall moments when, despite personal weakness or suffering, God’s love remained constant—comforting, convicting, and sustaining. Personally, I have experienced God’s unfailing love most clearly during times of grief and uncertainty, when human support was limited but God's presence remained near, reminding me that His love is not seasonal but enduring, healing, and always available

Read Romans 8:35-39

— What things cannot separate us from God's love?

— Why is this truth especially comforting?

— How does this security affect your daily relationship with God?

COMMENT: Romans 8:35–39 is one of the most powerful declarations in Scripture about the invincibility of God's love. Paul lists every conceivable force—tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, death, life, angels, demons, present and future threats, even the powers of the cosmos—and boldly proclaims that none of these can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. This truth is profoundly comforting because it speaks directly to our deepest fears: abandonment, failure, suffering, and spiritual defeat. The believer’s relationship with God is not secured by human effort but by divine love that holds firm through every trial. This assurance transforms daily life, nurturing a relationship with God that is not governed by anxiety but by trust. When we truly believe that nothing can separate us from God’s love, we are freed to live with courage, confess sin without fear of rejection, and extend grace to others as we ourselves have received it. This is not mere sentiment—it is the solid ground of Christian hope.

3. Understanding God's Grace

Read Ephesians 2:1-10

— What was our spiritual condition before God's grace? (verses 1-3)

— What did God do because of His grace? (verses 4-7)

— Why is salvation by grace important? (verses 8-9)

— What is the purpose of salvation by grace? (verse 10)

COMMENT: Ephesians 2 opens with a sobering portrait of humanity’s spiritual condition apart from God’s grace: we were “dead in transgressions and sins,” following the course of this world and living in rebellion under the influence of the flesh and the devil (vv. 1–3). Spiritually lifeless and deserving of wrath, we had no hope of restoring ourselves to God. Yet, in verses 4–7, Paul announces the astounding intervention of divine grace: “But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love… made us alive with Christ.” Salvation is entirely God’s initiative, driven not by human merit but by His love and mercy. Verses 8–9 stress this point emphatically—salvation is by grace through faith, and even faith itself is a gift. It cannot be earned, lest anyone should boast. This truth humbles human pride and magnifies God’s generosity. But grace is not merely a rescue from sin’s penalty; verse 10 reveals its purpose: we are saved to become God’s workmanship, created anew in Christ for good works He prepared in advance. Thus, grace not only saves us but also transforms and sends us, enabling a life that reflects God’s character and mission.

Read Romans 3:21-24

— How does grace relate to our justification before God?

— What does it mean to be "justified freely by his grace"?

COMMENT: In Romans 3:21–24, Paul continues his theological exposition by presenting grace as the basis of our justification—that is, our being declared righteous before God. The Law, while revealing sin, could never justify us; instead, God has revealed a righteousness apart from the Law, made available through faith in Jesus Christ. This righteousness is not earned but given freely, “justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus” (v. 24). To be justified freely means that sinners are acquitted and made right with God not because of works or personal merit, but solely because of God’s unearned favor. Grace, in this context, is not a vague kindness but the concrete, costly gift of salvation secured by Christ’s atoning work. It levels all human distinctions—“all have sinned”—and yet lifts all who believe into the realm of God’s redeeming love. This grace-centered justification anchors the Christian life in assurance, not striving, and calls us to respond with gratitude, humility, and trust.

4. Grace in Action

Read 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 (Paul's thorn)

— How did God respond to Paul's repeated requests?

— What does "My grace is sufficient" mean practically?

— How does God's grace work in our weaknesses?

COMMENT: In 2 Corinthians 12, the Apostle Paul describes a persistent “thorn in the flesh,” a form of suffering or affliction that remained with him despite his repeated pleas for God to remove it. Instead of granting Paul’s request for deliverance, God responded with a deeper promise: “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (v. 9). This response redefines grace not as the removal of hardship but as divine strength given in the midst of it. Practically, “My grace is sufficient” means that God supplies ongoing, sustaining power that enables believers to endure, persevere, and even rejoice amid trials. Rather than eliminating the weakness, God uses it as a platform to display His strength, ensuring that the glory belongs to Him, not to human ability. Paul’s conclusion—that he will boast in his weaknesses so that Christ’s power may rest on him—demonstrates that grace is not merely about forgiveness but about empowerment, a dynamic force that meets us precisely where we are most vulnerable.

Read Hebrews 4:14-16

— How does grace affect our approach to God?

— What kind of help does grace provide in times of need?

COMMENT: Hebrews 4:14–16 offers a rich picture of how grace transforms the believer’s relationship with God, especially in times of need. Because Jesus is our great High Priest—one who sympathizes with our weaknesses and was tempted in every way, yet without sin—we are invited to “approach the throne of grace with confidence.” This is a remarkable shift from the fear and distance once associated with approaching God under the old covenant. Now, because of Christ, God’s throne is not one of judgment but of grace, where mercy is dispensed and help is offered “in our time of need.” Grace, in this context, provides more than pardon—it offers timely assistance, inner strength, wisdom, and comfort when life becomes overwhelming. It removes shame, silences condemnation, and assures the believer that God’s help is both available and personal. Grace, therefore, is not only the means of our salvation but also the foundation of our ongoing access to God, sustaining us through every trial and drawing us deeper into His presence.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

1. In Our Relationship with God

Read Psalm 32:1-2 and Romans 4:6-8

— How does understanding grace change our approach to confession?

— What freedom does God's grace provide from guilt and shame?

— How can we avoid taking God's grace for granted?

COMMENT: Understanding grace transforms our approach to confession from one of fear and shame to one of honest humility and hope. Psalm 32 and Romans 4 celebrate the blessedness of those whose sins are forgiven and whose transgressions are not counted against them—not because of personal merit, but because of God’s unmerited grace. This frees the believer from the crushing weight of guilt and the paralysis of shame, inviting a relationship with God marked by openness and trust. Knowing that we are justified apart from our works, we are able to confess with confidence rather than hide in fear. However, this freedom should not lead to complacency. To avoid taking grace for granted, we must continually remember the cost of our forgiveness—Christ’s sacrifice—and let that remembrance fuel gratitude, repentance, and a deeper love for the God who forgives so freely.

2. In Difficult Circumstances

Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 and Romans 8:28

— How does God's love sustain us through trials?

— What comfort does God's love provide when life doesn't make sense?

— Share about a difficult time when you experienced God's love and grace.

COMMENT: In life’s trials, God’s love does not promise the absence of pain but offers His sustaining presence and redemptive purpose. Paul calls God the “Father of compassion and the God of all comfort,” who meets us in our afflictions and equips us to comfort others (2 Cor. 1:3–4). This reveals the relational nature of divine love—it’s not distant or abstract but near, tender, and deeply involved. Even when life feels senseless, Romans 8:28 assures believers that God is weaving every circumstance, even suffering, into His good purposes for those who love Him. This truth doesn’t eliminate the grief or confusion, but it gives us an anchor of hope and trust in God's sovereignty. Personally, during a season of deep loss, I experienced God's love not as an escape from grief but as a quiet strength and an unshakeable presence that upheld me when I had no strength of my own. That is the essence of grace in suffering: God giving what we cannot supply for ourselves.

3. In Our Treatment of Others

Read Matthew 18:21-35 (The Unforgiving Servant)

— How should receiving God's grace affect how we treat others?

— What does this parable teach about forgiveness?

— In what relationships do you need to extend more grace?

Read Ephesians 4:32 and Colossians 3:12-14

— How should God's love and grace be reflected in our character?

— What does it mean to "be kind and compassionate"?

COMMENT: Receiving God’s grace demands a radical shift in how we treat others, especially in the area of forgiveness. Jesus' parable of the unforgiving servant exposes the hypocrisy of accepting immense mercy from God while withholding it from others. The forgiven servant’s refusal to forgive reflects a heart untouched by grace—a warning to all who profess faith. True understanding of grace softens the heart and fuels a desire to reflect God’s mercy in human relationships. Paul calls us to be kind, compassionate, and forgiving, as God in Christ forgave us (Eph. 4:32). This means extending grace even when it's undeserved, bearing with others, and clothing ourselves with humility and love (Col. 3:12–14). We must continually examine our relationships—spouses, coworkers, family, fellow believers—and ask: where am I withholding the very grace I’ve received? God’s love shapes our character not only internally but interpersonally, calling us to be conduits of His kindness in a harsh and hurting world.

4. In Our Service and Witness

Read 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 and 1 John 4:19

— What motivates genuine Christian service?

— How does experiencing God's love change our priorities?

— How can we share God's love and grace with others?

COMMENT: Genuine Christian service is not motivated by duty alone but by the compelling love of Christ. As Paul writes, “The love of Christ controls us,” because we are no longer living for ourselves but for Him who died and rose again for us (2 Cor. 5:14–15). When we have truly experienced the transforming power of God's love and grace, our priorities shift from self-preservation to self-giving. Evangelism, acts of service, and even mundane tasks become opportunities to reflect the God who first loved us (1 John 4:19). Sharing God’s love and grace begins with authenticity—bearing witness to what God has done in our own lives—and continues with intentional action: serving others sacrificially, speaking truth with love, and embodying kindness in daily interactions. In a world that often sees religion as performance or judgment, grace-filled living becomes a compelling testimony to the reality of a God who saves, sustains, and sends.

The Relationship Between Love and Grace

God's Love is the Source

Love is God's nature and motivation

Love moved God to act on our behalf

Love seeks our highest good

God's Grace is the Method

Grace is love in action toward the undeserving

Grace makes God's love accessible to sinners

Grace provides what love desires to give

Together They Accomplish Salvation

Love planned our salvation (John 3:16)

Grace accomplished our salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Love sustains our relationship with God (Romans 8:38-39)

Grace empowers our Christian living (2 Corinthians 12:9)

QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION:

— "If God's grace covers all sin, does that mean it doesn't matter how we live?"

COMMENT: This is a question Paul anticipated in Romans 6:1–2 when he wrote, “Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means!” While God’s grace fully covers all sin through Christ’s atonement, it is never a license for moral indifference or disobedience. True grace is transformational. It not only forgives but also renews the heart, leading to a new way of life marked by holiness and gratitude (Titus 2:11–12). If someone uses grace as an excuse to live carelessly, it may indicate a misunderstanding or even a rejection of what grace really is. Saving grace unites us to Christ, and that union changes our desires—we begin to live not to earn God’s favor but as a response to the favor we’ve already received. Grace doesn’t make sin irrelevant; it makes obedience possible and joyful.

— "How can I know if God really loves me personally?"

COMMENT: The assurance of God’s personal love is rooted not in our feelings or circumstances, which often change, but in the unchanging truth of God’s Word and the historical reality of Christ’s sacrifice. Romans 5:8 declares, “God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This is not generic or abstract—it is deeply personal. God's love is not based on our worthiness but on His character. 1 John 4:10 affirms that love is defined by God’s initiative to save us through His Son. When doubts arise, we must look to the cross, where God’s love is most clearly revealed. Furthermore, His Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are God’s children (Romans 8:16). If you trust in Christ, then you are already the recipient of God’s personal, unwavering love. That love is not earned, nor can it be lost—it is covenantal, steadfast, and eternal.

— "What's the difference between mercy and grace?"

COMMENT: Mercy and grace are closely related, yet they highlight different aspects of God’s redemptive character. Mercy is God’s compassion that withholds the punishment we rightfully deserve. It’s His response to our misery caused by sin, sparing us from judgment. Grace, on the other hand, goes further—it is the generous giving of blessings we do not deserve. Mercy says, “You are guilty, but I will not condemn you.” Grace says, “You are unworthy, but I will bless you abundantly.” In salvation, mercy forgives, and grace restores. For example, in Ephesians 2:4–5, Paul says God is “rich in mercy” and made us alive with Christ “by grace.” Together, mercy and grace paint a full picture of the gospel: we are spared from wrath and gifted with new life. These are not abstract qualities but living realities experienced in the person of Jesus Christ. Mercy is not getting what we deserve (punishment for sin). Grace is getting what we don't deserve (God's favor and blessing). Both flow from God's love.

QUOTES:

John Stott (Theologian) “Grace is God loving, God stooping, God coming to the rescue, God giving himself generously in and through Jesus Christ.”— John Stott This quote encapsulates the essence of grace as God's active and self-giving love toward humanity, demonstrated supremely through Jesus Christ.

Billy Graham (Evangelist) “God's mercy and grace give me hope—for myself, and for our world.” — Billy Graham, Billy Graham emphasizes that God's grace and mercy are the foundation of hope, both personal and global, offering redemption and transformation.

Charles Spurgeon (Preacher) “The Lord may not give gold, but He will give grace. He may not give gain, but He will give grace. He will certainly send us trial, but He will give grace proportionate thereto.” — Charles Spurgeon, Spurgeon reassures believers that while material wealth and success are not guaranteed, God's grace is always sufficient, especially in times of trial.

Memory Verse

Ephesians 2:8-9 - "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast."

CLOSING REFLECTIONS QUESTIONS:

— How has your understanding of God's love and grace grown through this study?

— What aspect of God's love or grace do you most need to remember this week?

— How can you better reflect God's love and grace to someone in your life?

Session 6: God's Justice and Righteousness

—Printable Download

While God's love and grace reveal His heart toward us, His justice and righteousness reveal His perfect moral character and His commitment to what is right. God's justice means He always acts according to what is right and fair - He cannot overlook sin or act contrary to His perfect nature. His righteousness means He is the absolute standard of moral perfection. These attributes might seem to conflict with His love and grace, but they actually work together beautifully in the gospel. Today we'll explore how God's justice and righteousness provide the foundation for true peace, security, and salvation.

Primary Texts on God's Justice:

Deuteronomy 32:4 - "He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he."

Psalm 89:14 - "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne; love and faithfulness go before you."

Romans 3:25-26 - "God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness... so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus."

Primary Texts on God's Righteousness:

Psalm 119:137 - "You are righteous, Lord, and your laws are right."

Isaiah 45:21 - "Was it not I, the Lord? And there is no God apart from me, a righteous God and a Savior; there is none but me."

1 John 1:9 - "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness."

Supporting Passages:

Genesis 18:25 - "Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?"

Psalm 9:7-8 - "The Lord reigns forever; he has established his throne for judgment. He rules the world in righteousness and judges the peoples with equity."

Romans 1:17 - "For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: 'The righteous will live by faith.'"

2 Timothy 4:8 - "Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing."

STUDY QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION:

1. Understanding God's Justice

Read Genesis 18:16-33 (Abraham's intercession for Sodom)

— What was Abraham's concern about God's judgment on Sodom?

— What does Abraham's question "Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?" reveal about God's character?

— How did God respond to Abraham's appeal for justice?

— What does this teach us about God's commitment to justice?

COMMENT: In Genesis 18, Abraham intercedes on behalf of Sodom, expressing a deep concern that God's impending judgment might sweep away the righteous with the wicked. His poignant question—“Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?”—reflects not doubt, but confidence in the moral perfection of God’s justice. Abraham appeals to God's integrity, assuming that divine judgment must inherently be fair and discerning. Remarkably, God listens patiently and agrees to spare the city if even ten righteous people are found there. This interaction highlights God’s willingness to engage with human concerns about justice and reveals that divine judgment is never arbitrary or impulsive, but grounded in righteousness and mercy. It affirms that God’s justice is not only retributive but also relational and responsive, shaped by both His holiness and compassion. God’s commitment to justice is unwavering, but it operates with patience and full knowledge, never punishing unjustly or without cause.

Read Romans 1:18-20

— Why is God's wrath revealed against ungodliness?

— How does God's justice relate to His response to sin?

— What does this passage teach about human accountability?

COMMENT: Romans 1:18–20 explains that God's wrath is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness because humanity suppresses the truth of God, despite having access to general revelation through creation. This passage shows that God’s justice is not a cold reaction but a righteous response to willful rebellion and moral corruption. Sin is not a passive mistake but an active suppression of what can be known about God—His eternal power and divine nature, which are clearly visible in the world around us. Therefore, human beings are “without excuse.” This reinforces the doctrine of human accountability: people are responsible for their moral choices because God has made sufficient knowledge of Himself accessible. God’s justice, then, is consistent with His holiness and is rightly expressed in judgment against sin. But it also highlights the urgency of grace—because all stand under judgment, all equally need redemption. God’s justice magnifies the seriousness of sin and the necessity of the gospel.

2. Understanding God's Righteousness

Read Psalm 145:17 and Daniel 9:7, 14

— How does the psalmist describe God's righteousness?

— How does Daniel contrast God's righteousness with human sinfulness?

— What comfort does God's perfect righteousness provide?

COMMENT: Psalm 145:17 declares, “The Lord is righteous in all His ways and faithful in all He does,” portraying God’s righteousness as both moral perfection and unwavering faithfulness. His actions are always aligned with what is just, pure, and good. In Daniel 9, the prophet offers a striking contrast between God’s righteousness and human failure. Daniel confesses Israel’s sin and acknowledges that God's judgment is fully justified—“To you, O Lord, belongs righteousness, but to us open shame” (v. 7). Even in the context of divine discipline, Daniel affirms that God is righteous in everything He has done (v. 14), including His judgments. This honest recognition of divine righteousness in light of human sinfulness provides a profound comfort: God's justice is not fickle or corrupted like human systems—it is steady, incorruptible, and holy. For believers, this means that God's governance over the world, even in times of discipline, is never unjust. His righteousness assures us that He can be fully trusted to do what is right, even when His ways surpass our understanding.

Read Isaiah 64:6 and Romans 3:21-22

— How do our righteous acts compare to God's righteousness?

— How is God's righteousness made available to us?

— What role does faith play in receiving God's righteousness?

COMMENT: Isaiah 64:6 offers a sobering truth: even our most righteous acts are like “filthy rags” compared to God’s perfect holiness. Human righteousness, tainted by sin and self-interest, falls dramatically short of God's divine standard. Romans 3:21–22 brings the hopeful counterpart to this reality by revealing that “a righteousness from God” has been made known apart from the Law—a righteousness that comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. This is not a righteousness we achieve, but one we receive, graciously imputed to us through Christ’s perfect obedience and sacrificial death. Faith is the means by which this righteousness is appropriated; it is not earned through effort but granted through trust in God’s provision. This theological truth lies at the heart of the gospel: though we could never attain righteousness on our own, God, in His mercy, clothes us with the righteousness of Christ. Faith, then, is not merely belief—it is the surrender of self-righteousness and the embrace of God’s gracious gift.

3. Justice and Righteousness Working Together

Read Romans 3:21-26

— How does God demonstrate both His justice and His love in salvation?

— Why was it necessary for Christ to die to satisfy God's justice?

— How can God be "just and the one who justifies"?

COMMENT: Romans 3:21–26 presents the heart of the gospel—God’s way of salvation that upholds both His justice and His love. In this passage, Paul explains that although all have sinned and fall short of God’s glory, a righteousness from God has been revealed apart from the law, and it is accessible through faith in Jesus Christ. The dilemma of divine justice is this: how can a holy God forgive sinners without compromising His justice? The answer lies in the cross. God “presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement” to demonstrate His justice—sin is not ignored, but punished—while also expressing His deep love in providing the substitute. Christ's death was necessary because the wages of sin is death; God's justice demands satisfaction. Yet, in offering His own Son, God makes a way to justify sinners without acting unjustly. This is the profound mystery and glory of the gospel: God is “just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus.” Justice is satisfied; mercy is extended; and the righteousness of God is revealed in redemptive grace.

Read 2 Corinthians 5:21

— What exchange took place at the cross?

— How does this satisfy both God's justice and provide our righteousness?

COMMENT: In 2 Corinthians 5:21, Paul summarizes the gospel in one of the most powerful theological statements in Scripture: “God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” This “great exchange” lies at the center of God’s justice and righteousness working in perfect harmony. Christ, the sinless one, takes upon Himself the full burden of human sin and bears its penalty through His death. At the same time, His perfect righteousness is credited to those who believe in Him. This satisfies God's justice—because sin is fully punished—and secures our righteousness—because we are clothed in Christ’s obedience. It is not a compromise of justice, but a fulfillment of it in a way that exalts grace and love. This exchange not only meets the demands of divine holiness but also transforms the believer, declaring them righteous before God, not because of their merit but because of Christ’s substitutionary work.

4. The Hope of God's Justice

Read Psalm 37:1-6 and Ecclesiastes 3:17

— What comfort does God's perfect justice provide when we see injustice?

— How should we respond when evil seems to prosper?

— What is our ultimate hope regarding justice?

COMMENT: When we witness injustice and see the wicked prosper, Psalm 37 offers profound comfort by reminding believers to “not fret because of evildoers” but to trust in the Lord and do good. God’s perfect justice assures us that evil is neither unnoticed nor unpunished; He is a righteous judge who will vindicate the oppressed in His timing. Ecclesiastes 3:17 echoes this truth, affirming that God will bring every deed into judgment, including those done in secret. Our response, then, should be patient trust and faithful obedience, rather than bitterness or despair. We are called to commit our ways to the Lord, knowing that He will act on our behalf. Ultimately, our hope is anchored in the certainty that God’s justice will prevail and that all wrongs will be righted. This hope shapes our perspective, giving endurance and peace amid present injustice, because we know God’s righteous judgment is coming.

Read Revelation 19:11 and 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10

— How will God's justice ultimately be displayed?

— What does this mean for believers? For unbelievers?

COMMENT: God’s justice will be fully and visibly displayed at Christ’s return, described in Revelation 19:11 as “Faithful and True,” judging with righteousness and making war in justice. This final judgment will eradicate evil and establish perfect justice for all. For believers, this means ultimate vindication, the removal of all guilt, and entrance into eternal peace and joy with God. The reality of God’s just judgment encourages perseverance and hope amid trials. For unbelievers, however, this judgment signifies accountability and the righteous condemnation of unrepented sin. 2 Thessalonians 1:5–10 portrays this as a time of both relief for the faithful and terrifying wrath for those who reject God. Thus, God’s justice is not only a future event but also a present motivation for evangelism, holiness, and trust, assuring us that no injustice escapes His sovereign rule and that He will restore all things in perfect righteousness.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

1. In Our View of Sin

Read Romans 6:23 and Ezekiel 18:20

— How does God's justice help us understand the seriousness of sin?

— Why is it important to see sin from God's perspective?

— How does understanding God's justice deepen our appreciation for grace?

COMMENT: God’s justice underscores the gravity of sin by affirming that sin deserves death, as Romans 6:23 declares, “the wages of sin is death.” Ezekiel 18:20 further clarifies that each person bears responsibility for their own sin, highlighting the personal and eternal consequences of rebellion against a holy God. Seeing sin from God’s perspective—one of absolute justice and holiness—prevents us from trivializing or minimizing its offense. This understanding deepens our appreciation for grace because it reveals the vast gap between human guilt and God’s righteousness. Grace is all the more astounding and precious when we recognize that God justly could condemn us, yet instead offers forgiveness and restoration through Christ’s atoning work.

2. In Dealing with Injustice

Read Romans 12:17-21 and 1 Peter 2:21-23

— How should God's justice affect our response to unfair treatment?

— What does it mean to "leave room for God's wrath"?

— How did Jesus model trust in God's justice?

— Share about a time when trusting God's justice helped you through injustice.

COMMENT: God’s justice calls believers to respond to unfair treatment with humility and trust rather than vengeance, as Romans 12:17–21 instructs us to “not repay evil for evil” but to “leave room for God’s wrath.” This means relinquishing our desire for personal retaliation, trusting that God will execute righteous judgment in His timing. Jesus perfectly modeled this approach, bearing unjust suffering without retaliation and entrusting Himself to the righteous Judge, as 1 Peter 2:21–23 shows. Trusting God’s justice can sustain us through difficult times by replacing bitterness with peace, giving us strength to endure while resting in His sovereign judgment. Many believers find that relying on God’s justice brings healing and perspective amid personal injustice.

3. In Our Pursuit of Righteousness

Read Matthew 5:6 and 1 Timothy 6:11

— What does it mean to "hunger and thirst for righteousness"?

— How should we pursue righteousness in our daily lives?

— What's the difference between self-righteousness and God's righteousness?

COMMENT: To “hunger and thirst for righteousness” (Matthew 5:6) is to passionately desire to live in alignment with God’s holy standards and to experience His just rule. Pursuing righteousness in daily life means actively seeking to obey God’s commands, growing in holiness, and reflecting His character in our thoughts, words, and actions. 1 Timothy 6:11 exhorts believers to pursue righteousness alongside godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. The key difference between self-righteousness and God’s righteousness is that self-righteousness is a prideful, self-generated attempt to earn favor, whereas God’s righteousness is a gracious gift received by faith. True righteousness flows from union with Christ, transforming our hearts and empowering genuine obedience.

4. In Our Treatment of Others

Read Micah 6:8 and Isaiah 1:17

— How should God's justice influence how we treat others?

— What does it mean to "act justly" in our relationships?

— How can we be agents of God's justice and righteousness in the world?

COMMENT: God’s justice profoundly shapes how we treat others, calling us to “act justly” and “love mercy” as Micah 6:8 commands. Acting justly in relationships means treating others fairly, standing against oppression, and upholding truth and equity. Isaiah 1:17 reinforces this by urging us to “seek justice, correct oppression, bring justice to the fatherless, and plead the widow’s cause.” As followers of Christ, we are called to be agents of God’s justice and righteousness in the world—advocating for the marginalized, embodying compassion, and reflecting God’s holy character in all interactions. Living out justice and righteousness is both a personal commitment and a communal responsibility, demonstrating God’s kingdom on earth.

Balancing God's Attributes

Justice and Love Work Together:

Love desires relationship with humanity

Justice demands that sin be dealt with

The Cross satisfies both - love provides the sacrifice, justice accepts it

Result: God can be both loving and just simultaneously

Righteousness and Grace Work Together:

Righteousness is the standard we cannot meet

Grace provides what righteousness demands

Christ becomes our righteousness

Result: We are declared righteous while being made righteous

Why Both Are Necessary:

Without justice, God would not be trustworthy

Without righteousness, there would be no standard for good

Without love and grace, justice would condemn us all

Together, they provide perfect salvation

COMMON QUESTIONS AND CLARIFICATIONS:

— "How can a loving God send people to hell?"

COMMENT: God’s love and justice are perfectly balanced in His character. While God is infinitely loving, He is also perfectly just, meaning sin must be accounted for and cannot be overlooked. Hell represents the just consequence of human rebellion—a state of eternal separation from God, which is both what people deserve for rejecting Him and what they ultimately choose by their own free will. Yet, God’s love is demonstrated supremely in providing a way of escape from this judgment through Jesus Christ. Through Christ’s sacrificial death and resurrection, God offers forgiveness and reconciliation, inviting all to be saved and spared from eternal punishment. Thus, hell is not a contradiction to God’s love, but the necessary fulfillment of His justice in the face of human choice.

— "Why doesn't God stop all injustice now?"

COMMENT: God’s delay in addressing injustice is rooted in His patient mercy and sovereign plan. Acts 17:31 affirms that God has appointed a final day of judgment when He will decisively rectify all wrongs and fully manifest His justice. Until that day, God’s patience provides the opportunity for repentance, as 2 Peter 3:9 reminds us that He is “not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” Meanwhile, God actively works through His people—His church—to promote justice, care for the oppressed, and be agents of His righteousness in the present world. Though injustice persists, God’s timing ensures a just and comprehensive resolution in the fullness of His plan.

— "How can I be righteous when I still sin?"

COMMENT: Christian righteousness encompasses both a positional and a progressive reality. Positional righteousness means that through faith in Christ, God credits His perfect righteousness to believers, declaring them righteous before His holy standard despite their ongoing sin. This is a legal standing secured by Christ’s atoning work. Progressive righteousness, on the other hand, refers to the believer’s lifelong growth in holiness and moral conformity to God’s will. While we continue to struggle with sin, God’s Spirit works within us to transform our hearts and actions, enabling us to become more like Christ over time. God’s justice accepts the righteousness of Christ in our place, while His grace empowers our ongoing sanctification.

QUOTES:

Charles Spurgeon (Preacher) “The greatest enemy to human souls is the self-righteous spirit which makes men look to themselves for salvation.” — Charles Spurgeon, Spurgeon emphasizes that self-righteousness, the belief in one's own moral superiority, is a significant obstacle to recognizing the need for God's justice and grace.

R.C. Sproul (Theologian) “The only thing that we have earned at the hands of perfect justice is perfect punishment.”
— R.C. Sproul, Sproul underscores the concept that, due to human sinfulness, the only just outcome we deserve is punishment. This highlights the profound nature of God's justice and the necessity of His grace.

John Stott (Theologian) “When we look at the cross we see the justice, love, wisdom and power of God. It is not easy to decide which is the most luminously revealed, whether the justice of God in judging sin, or the love of God in bearing the judgment in our place, or the wisdom of God in perfectly combining the two, or the power of God in saving those who believe.” — John Stott

Memory Verse

Romans 3:25-26 - "God presented Christ as a sacrifice of atonement, through the shedding of his blood—to be received by faith. He did this to demonstrate his righteousness... so as to be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus."

CLOSING REFLECTIONS QUESTIONS:

— How does understanding God's perfect justice give you hope when facing injustice?

— What area of your life needs to be more aligned with God's righteousness?

— How can you be an instrument of God's justice and righteousness this week?

Session 7: God's Mercy and Compassion

—Printable Download

While God's justice ensures that wrongdoing is addressed, His mercy withholds the punishment we deserve, and His compassion moves Him to act with tender care for our needs. Mercy and compassion reveal God's heart - He doesn't delight in judgment but in restoration. The Bible tells us that God is "rich in mercy" and "full of compassion." These attributes show us a God who sees our struggles, feels our pain, and acts to help us despite our failures. Today we'll explore how God's mercy and compassion provide hope, healing, and transformation in our lives.

Primary Texts on God's Mercy:

Ephesians 2:4-5 - "But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved."

Lamentations 3:22-23 - "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."

Psalm 103:8-12 - "The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love... As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us."

Primary Texts on God's Compassion:

Psalm 86:15 - "But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness."

Matthew 9:36 - "When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd."

Isaiah 49:13 - "Shout for joy, you heavens; rejoice, you earth; burst into song, you mountains! For the Lord comforts his people and will have compassion on his afflicted ones."

Supporting Passages:

Psalm 51:1 - "Have mercy on me, O God, according to your unfailing love; according to your great compassion blot out my transgressions."

Nehemiah 9:17 - "But you are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love."

Luke 15:20 - "But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him."

Hebrews 4:15-16 - "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses... Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need."

STUDY QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION:

1. Understanding God's Mercy

Read Psalm 51:1-4 (David's confession after his sin with Bathsheba)

— What does David appeal to when seeking forgiveness?

— How does David describe God's mercy and compassion?

— What does this teach us about approaching God after we've sinned?

COMMENT: In Psalm 51, David, burdened by his sin with Bathsheba, appeals to God’s steadfast mercy and abundant compassion as the basis for his forgiveness. He acknowledges his wrongdoing openly but places his hope not in his own merit but in God’s unfailing kindness and willingness to forgive. David describes God’s mercy as “great” and abundant, emphasizing God’s readiness to blot out transgressions and not hold sins against us according to His lovingkindness. This teaches us that when we approach God after sinning, we do so humbly, relying fully on His compassionate nature rather than our worthiness. It reminds believers that repentance invites the merciful heart of God to respond, restoring and cleansing rather than condemning.

Read Luke 18:9-14 (The Pharisee and Tax Collector)

— How did each man approach God?

— What was the tax collector's request?

— Why did Jesus say the tax collector went home justified?

— What does this teach us about receiving God's mercy?

COMMENT: In the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector, the two men approach God with vastly different attitudes—the Pharisee with pride and self-righteousness, the tax collector with humility and repentance. The tax collector’s simple request, “God, have mercy on me, a sinner,” reveals his awareness of his sinfulness and his dependence on God’s mercy alone. Jesus declares that the tax collector went home justified because of this humility and genuine plea for mercy, in contrast to the Pharisee’s self-exaltation. This teaches that God’s mercy is received not through pride or self-justification, but through a contrite heart that acknowledges sin and earnestly seeks forgiveness. It highlights that mercy is a gift granted to those who recognize their need and surrender before God.

2. Understanding God's Compassion

Read Matthew 14:13-21 (Feeding the 5,000)

— What moved Jesus to have compassion on the crowds?

— How did Jesus express His compassion practically?

— What does this reveal about God's concern for our physical needs?

COMMENT: Jesus was deeply moved by compassion when He saw the crowds following Him—people who were like “sheep without a shepherd,” vulnerable and in need. This compassion wasn’t merely emotional but led Him to practical action: He healed the sick among them and miraculously fed the 5,000 with five loaves and two fish. This event reveals that God’s concern extends beyond spiritual needs to our physical well-being. God’s compassion is holistic, caring for the whole person, demonstrating that He notices and meets both our bodily and spiritual hunger. This teaches us that God is intimately involved in our daily struggles and actively works to sustain and provide for us.

Read Luke 7:11-17 (The Widow of Nain)

— What situation moved Jesus to compassion?

— How did Jesus respond to this mother's grief?

— What does this show us about God's heart toward our sorrows?

COMMENT: Jesus was moved to compassion by the grief of a widow who had lost her only son—a poignant and desperate situation, especially in that cultural context where widows faced extreme vulnerability. Jesus responded directly by raising her son from the dead, offering not just consolation but restoration and hope. This encounter reveals God’s tender heart toward our sorrows and suffering. God is not distant or indifferent to our pain; He enters into our suffering and acts powerfully to bring healing and renewal. This passage reminds us that God’s compassion involves both empathy for our pain and active intervention in our lives.

3. The Character of God's Mercy and Compassion

Read Lamentations 3:19-26

— What was Jeremiah's situation when he wrote these words?

— How does he describe God's compassions?

— What hope does this provide during difficult times?

Read Psalm 103:8-14

— How does God's treatment of us compare to how we treat each other?

— What does verse 14 tell us about God's understanding?

— How should this affect our confidence in approaching God?

COMMENT: Jeremiah writes Lamentations 3 amid deep sorrow and national devastation, grieving Jerusalem’s destruction. Yet, even in despair, he anchors his hope in God’s unchanging mercy. He declares that the Lord’s compassions “never fail,” and they are “new every morning,” affirming that God's steadfast love endures through even the bleakest circumstances. This provides profound hope: no matter how dark the night, God's mercy will dawn again with each day. In Psalm 103, David celebrates that God is “compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love,” contrasting divine mercy with our often conditional human treatment of one another. Verse 14 poignantly reminds us that God “knows how we are formed,” and remembers that we are dust—fragile, limited, and prone to fall. God’s mercy takes our weakness into account. This understanding invites us to approach God not with fear, but with assurance, trusting that His compassion outweighs our failures and His grace meets us where we are.

4. Experiencing God's Mercy and Compassion

Read the Parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32)

— What do we learn about the father's heart from verses 20-24?

— How does this parable illustrate God's mercy and compassion?

— Which character in the story do you most identify with and why?

COMMENT: The parable of the Prodigal Son offers a vivid picture of God’s mercy and compassion through the heart of the father. When the lost son returns, broken and repentant, the father runs to him, embraces him, and restores him with full joy, without hesitation or rebuke. His lavish welcome, especially in verses 20–24, shows us that God does not hold back mercy when we return—He delights in forgiving and restoring us. The story illustrates that God's compassion is not earned but freely given to those who humble themselves. Many readers find themselves identifying with the prodigal—ashamed, undeserving, and overwhelmed by grace. Others might relate to the elder brother, struggling to accept that mercy is for others, too. Regardless of which character we identify with, the parable calls us to see God as the gracious Father who always opens His arms, whether we are returning from rebellion or wrestling with self-righteousness. It’s an invitation to live in and extend the mercy we ourselves have received.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

1. In Times of Failure and Sin

Read 1 John 1:8-10 and Psalm 32:1-5

— How should God's mercy affect our response to personal sin?

— What happens when we try to hide our sin versus confessing it?

— Share about a time when you experienced God's mercy after failure.

COMMENT: God’s mercy invites us to respond to personal sin not with shame or denial but with honest confession and repentance. According to 1 John 1:8-10, acknowledging our sin opens the door for God’s forgiveness and cleansing, while hiding sin leads to spiritual darkness and broken fellowship. Psalm 32 illustrates the joy and relief that come from confessing sins and receiving God’s mercy. Experiencing God’s mercy after failure is often a profound moment of grace, where His compassion renews our hope and restores our relationship with Him, assuring us that failure is not final when met with humble repentance.

2. In Times of Suffering and Struggle

Read 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 and Psalm 34:18

— How does God show compassion to those who are suffering?

— What comfort does God's compassion provide in difficult times?

— How has God's compassion sustained you through trials?

COMMENT: God’s compassion is vividly present in our suffering, as 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 describes Him as the “Father of compassion and God of all comfort” who comforts us so we can comfort others. Psalm 34:18 reminds us that God is especially near to the brokenhearted and those crushed in spirit. This compassionate presence brings deep comfort, giving strength, peace, and hope amidst trials. Many believers testify that God’s compassionate care sustains them through difficult seasons, transforming suffering into a conduit for spiritual growth and empathetic ministry.

3. In Our Treatment of Others

Read Matthew 18:21-35 (The Unforgiving Servant)

— How should receiving God's mercy affect how we treat others?

— What warning does Jesus give about withholding mercy?

— Who in your life needs to receive mercy from you?

COMMENT: Receiving God’s mercy compels us to extend that same mercy to others, as Jesus teaches in the parable of the Unforgiving Servant (Matthew 18:21-35). Jesus warns that withholding mercy can jeopardize our own standing before God, highlighting the seriousness of forgiveness in the Christian life. We are called to examine our hearts and ask who needs our mercy and grace. Colossians 3:12-13 encourages believers to clothe themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience, bearing with one another and forgiving as the Lord forgave us. This means patiently enduring others’ weaknesses and forgiving offenses as acts of love.

Read Colossians 3:12-13

— How should God's compassion be reflected in our character?

— What does it mean to "bear with each other"?

4. In Our Ministry to Others

Read Matthew 25:31-40 and James 1:27

— How can we show God's compassion to those in need?

— What does caring for "the least of these" mean practically?

— How is caring for others connected to our relationship with God?

COMMENT: God’s compassion calls us to practical acts of mercy, especially toward those in need, as Matthew 25:31-40 and James 1:27 teach. Serving “the least of these” involves caring for the hungry, thirsty, strangers, the sick, and prisoners—demonstrating God’s love tangibly. Such ministry is not just social work but a profound expression of our relationship with God, reflecting His heart and obedience to Him. By meeting physical and emotional needs, we embody God’s compassion, showing that true faith is lived out in love and service to others.

The Difference Between Mercy and Compassion

Mercy:

Definition: Not receiving the punishment we deserve

Focus: Deals with our guilt and condemnation

Example: God forgiving our sins instead of condemning us

Result: Freedom from penalty

Compassion:

Definition: God's tender care and active concern for our needs

Focus: Deals with our pain and struggles

Example: God providing comfort, healing, and help in times of need

Result: Comfort and assistance

How They Work Together:

Mercy removes the barrier of sin

Compassion provides ongoing care and support

Both flow from God's love and grace

Both motivate us to treat others with kindness

Mercy and Compassion Throughout Scripture

Old Testament Examples:

Noah: God's mercy preserved humanity through the flood

Abraham: God's compassion provided a ram as substitute for Isaac

Moses: God's mercy when Israel worshipped the golden calf

David: God's mercy after David's adultery and murder

New Testament Examples:

The Woman Caught in Adultery: Jesus' mercy - "Neither do I condemn you"

The Bleeding Woman: Jesus' compassion for her suffering

Peter's Denial: Jesus' merciful restoration after resurrection

The Thief on the Cross: Jesus' mercy - "Today you will be with me in paradise"

QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION:

— "Does God's mercy mean He overlooks sin?"

COMMENT: God’s mercy does not mean that He overlooks or ignores sin; rather, it means He chooses to withhold the punishment we deserve because of His compassionate love. Mercy is God’s gracious response to human failure, offering forgiveness and restoration instead of immediate judgment. Though sin is serious and must be dealt with justly, God’s mercy provides a path for repentance and reconciliation through Christ. Thus, mercy does not minimize sin’s reality but meets it with divine grace that transforms rather than condemns.

— "How can I know if I've exhausted God's mercy?"

COMMENT: The Bible assures us that God’s mercy is abundant and inexhaustible. Lamentations 3:22-23 declares that His mercies “are new every morning,” and Psalm 103 emphasizes that He does not treat us as our sins deserve. While God calls us to genuine repentance and faith, He does not impose a strict limit on His mercy for those who turn to Him sincerely. Therefore, if you repent and seek God with humility, you can trust His mercy is always available—exhausting His mercy is beyond human capacity.

— "What's the difference between God's compassion and human sympathy?"

COMMENT: God’s compassion is a profound, active love that not only feels sorrow for human suffering but also moves to bring healing and restoration. Unlike human sympathy, which is often passive or limited by our weaknesses, God’s compassion is perfect and unwavering, rooted in His holiness and power. He enters into our pain fully and acts decisively to redeem and comfort. This divine compassion is the foundation for His redemptive work through Jesus, demonstrating a commitment to our ultimate good beyond mere emotional concern.

QUOTES:

Charles Spurgeon (Preacher) “The Lord's mercy often rides to the door of our hearts on the black horse of affliction. Jesus uses the whole range of our experiences to wean us from earth and woo us to Heaven.” — Charles Spurgeon, Spurgeon highlights how God's mercy often reaches us through life's challenges, drawing us closer to Him.

Billy Graham (Evangelist) “The Lord is not only tender and merciful and full of compassion, but He is also the God of justice, holiness and wrath…Compassion is not complete in itself, but must be accompanied by inflexible justice and wrath against sin and a desire for holiness. What stirs God most is not physical suffering but sin. All too often we are more afraid of physical pain than of moral wrong. The cross is the standing evidence of the fact that holiness is a principle for which God would die. God cannot clear the guilty until atonement is made. Mercy is what we need and that is what we receive at the foot of the cross.” — Billy Graham, Graham emphasizes that God's compassion is intertwined with His justice, highlighting the necessity of atonement for mercy to be fully realized.

3. John Stott (Theologian) “Grace is God loving, God stooping, God coming to the rescue, God giving himself generously in and through Jesus Christ.” — John Stott, Stott encapsulates the essence of God's mercy and compassion as His active and self-giving love toward humanity, demonstrated supremely through Jesus Christ.

Memory Verse

Lamentations 3:22-23 - "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."

CLOSING REFLECTIONS QUESTIONS:

— In what area of your life do you most need to experience God's mercy or compassion right now?

— How has understanding God's mercy and compassion changed your view of Him?

— Who in your life needs to experience God's mercy and compassion through you?

Session 8: God's Faithfulness

—Printable Download

In a world where promises are often broken and commitments frequently abandoned, God's faithfulness stands as an unshakeable foundation for our lives. God's faithfulness means He is completely reliable, trustworthy, and true to His word. He never breaks a promise, never abandons His people, and never fails to fulfill His commitments. From Genesis to Revelation, Scripture testifies to God's unwavering faithfulness across generations. Today we'll explore this amazing attribute that provides security, hope, and confidence for every believer.

Primary Texts on God's Faithfulness:

Deuteronomy 7:9 - "Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments."

1 Corinthians 1:9 - "God is faithful, who has called you into fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord."

1 Thessalonians 5:24 - "The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it."

2 Timothy 2:13 - "If we are faithless, he remains faithful, for he cannot disown himself."

Supporting Passages:

Psalm 89:1-2 - "I will sing of the Lord's great love forever; with my mouth I will make your faithfulness known through all generations. I will declare that your love stands firm forever, that you have established your faithfulness in heaven itself."

Psalm 119:90 - "Your faithfulness continues through all generations; you established the earth, and it endures."

Lamentations 3:22-23 - "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."

1 Corinthians 10:13 - "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear."

Hebrews 10:23 - "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful."

STUDY QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION:

1. Understanding God's Faithfulness

Read Joshua 23:14 (Joshua's farewell address)

— What testimony does Joshua give about God's faithfulness?

— How had Israel experienced God's faithfulness over the years?

— What does this teach us about God's track record of keeping promises?

COMMENT: In his farewell address, Joshua bears witness to the unwavering faithfulness of God, affirming that “not one word of all the good promises the Lord had made to the house of Israel had failed.” Over the years, Israel had repeatedly experienced God’s steadfast commitment—from delivering them out of Egypt to providing for their needs in the wilderness and granting them victory in the Promised Land. This testimony teaches us that God’s faithfulness is proven by His consistent fulfillment of promises throughout history. It assures believers that God’s character is reliable and that His promises can be trusted absolutely, giving us confidence in His ongoing work in our lives.

Read 1 Kings 8:56 (Solomon's dedication of the temple)

— What does Solomon acknowledge about God's promises?

— How does this relate to God's covenant faithfulness?

— What confidence does this give us about God's future promises?

COMMENT: During the dedication of the temple, Solomon acknowledges that God is “faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made.” This recognition underscores God’s covenant faithfulness—His unchanging commitment to uphold the agreements He has made with His people. Solomon’s declaration encourages us to trust that just as God has kept His promises in the past, He will remain faithful in the future. This provides believers with profound confidence that God’s plans and promises, including salvation and eternal life, will come to pass because they rest on His dependable nature.

2. God's Faithfulness in Difficult Times

Read Psalm 27:1-6

— What confidence does David express despite his troubles?

— How does God's faithfulness provide security in uncertain times?

— What does it mean that God is our "stronghold"?

COMMENT: Despite facing enemies and adversity, David confidently declares that the Lord is his light, salvation, and stronghold, underscoring a profound trust in God’s faithfulness amid trouble. This confidence reveals that God’s steadfastness provides a secure refuge when life feels uncertain and threatening. To call God our "stronghold" means He is our protector and safe fortress—a reliable defense against fear and harm. In difficult times, God’s faithfulness anchors our hope and courage, assuring us that no matter the external chaos, we are upheld by His enduring presence and power.

Read Psalm 46:1-3, 10-11

— How does the psalmist describe God's faithfulness during catastrophic events?

— What does "Be still and know that I am God" mean in context?

— How does God's faithfulness help us in times of crisis?

COMMENT: The psalmist portrays God as an ever-present help who remains faithful even when the earth shakes, mountains fall, and waters roar—symbols of catastrophic upheaval. Amid such turmoil, the command to “Be still and know that I am God” invites believers to pause, trust, and recognize God’s sovereign control despite chaos. This stillness is an act of faith in God’s faithful governance, reminding us that His power surpasses every crisis. God’s faithfulness provides peace and assurance that He sustains and delivers His people, even when circumstances seem overwhelming.

3. God's Faithfulness Despite Our Unfaithfulness

Read 2 Timothy 2:11-13

— What contrast does Paul make between our faithfulness and God's?

— What does it mean that God "cannot disown himself"?

— How does this provide security for struggling believers?

COMMENT: Paul draws a striking contrast between human faithfulness and God’s unwavering faithfulness, emphasizing that even when we are faithless, God remains faithful because He “cannot disown himself.” This means God’s faithfulness is rooted in His own unchanging character and integrity, not dependent on our actions. For believers who struggle with doubt, failure, or inconsistency, this truth offers profound security: God’s commitment to His promises and His people does not falter when ours does. We can trust that His grace and love endure, sustaining us through our weaknesses.

Read the story of Hosea and Gomer (Hosea 3:1-5)

— How does this story illustrate God's faithful love for unfaithful people?

— What does God's faithfulness look like when we fail Him?

— How should this affect our response to His faithfulness?

COMMENT: The story of Hosea’s love for the unfaithful Gomer powerfully illustrates God’s faithful love toward His people, even when they betray Him. Despite Gomer’s unfaithfulness, Hosea redeems and restores her, symbolizing how God persistently pursues and forgives those who turn away. God’s faithfulness when we fail Him is a steadfast, redeeming love that seeks reconciliation rather than rejection. This compels us to respond with repentance, gratitude, and renewed devotion, recognizing that His faithfulness is a firm foundation on which we can rebuild our relationship with Him.

4. Specific Areas of God's Faithfulness

Read Romans 8:28-30

— How does God's faithfulness relate to His purposes for our lives?

— What can we be confident about regarding our future?

— How does this passage show God's faithfulness from beginning to end?

COMMENT: God’s faithfulness is intimately tied to His sovereign purposes for our lives, assuring believers that “in all things God works for the good” of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. This means that no circumstance—good or bad—escapes God’s faithful providence. We can be confident that God is actively shaping us to become more like Christ, conforming us to His image as part of His eternal plan. This passage reveals God’s faithfulness as a comprehensive work that begins with our calling and continues unbroken through our sanctification to our ultimate glorification.

Read Philippians 1:6

— What work has God begun in believers?

— What guarantee do we have that this work will be completed?

— How does this relate to God's faithful character?

COMMENT: Paul expresses assurance that the good work God has begun in believers will be brought to completion on the day of Christ Jesus. This guarantee stems from God’s faithful character—He is reliable, steadfast, and committed to fulfilling His promises. Knowing that God is actively at work in us, and will faithfully complete that work, encourages perseverance and hope in our spiritual journey. This verse highlights that God’s faithfulness is not only about past acts but also about His ongoing, sustaining presence in the lives of His people until His purposes are fully realized.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

1. In Times of Doubt and Discouragement

Read Psalm 42:5-11

— How does the psalmist deal with discouragement?

— What does he remind himself about God?

— How can remembering God's faithfulness help during dark times?

— Share about a time when God's faithfulness sustained you through doubt.

COMMENT: The psalmist openly wrestles with deep discouragement but responds by reminding himself to put hope in God’s faithfulness and steadfast love. Even in his darkest moments, he recalls God as his Savior and refuge, choosing to trust in God’s unchanging character rather than his fluctuating emotions. Remembering God’s faithfulness in past trials can sustain us when doubt threatens to overwhelm, anchoring our souls in hope. Personally, many find that recalling God’s past mercies and faithful provision brings strength to endure and renews confidence that He will not abandon us.

2. In Making Life Decisions

Read Proverbs 3:5-6 and Isaiah 30:21

— How does God's faithfulness relate to His guidance?

— What confidence can we have about following God's leading?

— How has God's faithful guidance been evident in your life?

COMMENT: God’s faithfulness is intimately connected to His guidance—He promises to direct our paths when we trust Him wholeheartedly and acknowledge Him in all our ways. This gives believers confidence that following God’s leading is not a blind leap but a reliance on His reliable character and wise counsel. Many testify to moments when God’s faithful guidance, often through Scripture, prayer, or wise counsel, has brought clarity and peace in complex decisions, confirming His presence and purpose in their lives.

3. In Facing Temptation

Read 1 Corinthians 10:13

— What promise does God make regarding temptation?

— How is this connected to His faithfulness?

— What "way out" has God provided for you in past temptations?

COMMENT: God promises to never allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear and to always provide a way of escape, underscoring His faithfulness even in our struggles. This assurance means that God actively works to protect and strengthen us, enabling us to resist temptation. Reflecting on past challenges, many recognize specific “ways out” God provided—whether through circumstances, support from others, or renewed strength—reminding us that His faithfulness equips us for victory.

4. In Our Relationships and Commitments

Read Malachi 2:14-16 and Ephesians 5:25-32

— How should God's faithfulness influence our commitment to others?

— What does faithful love look like in marriage and friendships?

— How can we reflect God's faithfulness in our relationships?

COMMENT: God’s faithfulness sets the standard for how we commit to others—whether in marriage, friendships, or community—calling us to loyal, sacrificial love that mirrors Christ’s unwavering devotion to the church. Faithful love means persevering through difficulties, forgiving generously, and prioritizing others’ well-being. By reflecting God’s steadfastness, we become living testimonies of His character, fostering trust and healing in relationships and embodying the covenantal faithfulness that God models for us.

Examples of God's Faithfulness Throughout Scripture

To Individuals:

Noah: God kept His promise to save Noah's family

Abraham: God fulfilled His promise of descendants and land

Moses: God remained faithful despite Moses' fears and Israel's rebellion

David: God established his throne forever through Christ

Daniel: God protected him in the lion's den

Paul: God's grace was sufficient through all his trials

To His People:

The Exodus: God delivered Israel from Egypt as promised

The Wilderness: God provided food, water, and protection for 40 years

The Promised Land: God gave Israel the land He had promised

The Captivity: God preserved His people and brought them back

The New Covenant: God sent the Messiah as promised

Eternal Promises:

Salvation: "Whoever believes in him shall not perish" (John 3:16)

Forgiveness: "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just" (1 John 1:9)

Presence: "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5)

Return: "I will come back and take you to be with me" (John 14:3)

QUESTIONS AND DISCUSSION:

— "If God is faithful, why do bad things still happen to Christians?"

COMMENT: God’s faithfulness does not guarantee a life free from trials or suffering, but it assures believers that He is always present and working for their ultimate good (Romans 8:28). Difficulties and hardships serve various purposes—refining faith, developing character, and deepening reliance on God—without indicating His abandonment. The faithful God promises never to forsake His people, even in adversity, sustaining them with grace and hope until His redemptive purposes are fully realized.

— "How can I trust God's faithfulness when my prayers seem unanswered?"

COMMENT: God’s faithfulness means He hears every prayer and responds in perfect wisdom and timing, which may not always align with our expectations. Sometimes, unanswered prayers reflect God’s greater purposes, protection, or a call to deeper trust. Trusting God’s faithfulness involves surrendering our desires to His sovereign will, confident that He works all things for good, even when the immediate outcome is unclear or disappointing.

— "What if I've been unfaithful to God - does that cancel His faithfulness to me?"

COMMENT: God’s faithfulness means He hears every prayer and responds in perfect wisdom and timing, which may not always align with our expectations. Sometimes, unanswered prayers reflect God’s greater purposes, protection, or a call to deeper trust. Trusting God’s faithfulness involves surrendering our desires to His sovereign will, confident that He works all things for good, even when the immediate outcome is unclear or disappointing.

Characteristics of God's Faithfulness

It is Unchanging:

His faithfulness doesn't fluctuate with circumstances

It's not dependent on our performance or behavior

It remains constant through all generations

It is Complete:

God keeps all His promises, not just some

His faithfulness extends to every area of life

Nothing can prevent Him from being faithful

It is Personal:

God's faithfulness is directed toward individuals, not just humanity in general

He knows each of us by name and is faithful to His personal relationship with us

His faithfulness meets our specific needs and circumstances

It is Eternal:

God's faithfulness has no beginning or end

It extends beyond this life into eternity

We can count on it forever

QUOTES:

Charles H. Spurgeon (Preacher) “No dependence can be placed upon our natural qualities, or our spiritual attainments; but God abideth faithful. He is faithful in His love; He knows no variableness, neither shadow of turning. He is faithful to His purpose; He doth not begin a work and then leave it undone. He is faithful to His relationships; as a Father He will not renounce His children, as a friend He will not deny His people, as a Creator He will not forsake the work of His own hands.” — Charles H. Spurgeon, Spurgeon emphasizes that God's faithfulness remains unwavering, regardless of human shortcomings.

George Müller (Evangelist) “After the Lord has tried our faith, he, in the love of His heart, gives us an abundance. For the glory of His name and for trial of our faith, He allows us to be poor and then graciously supplies our needs.” — George Müller, Müller reflects on how God uses trials to strengthen faith and demonstrates His faithfulness by providing abundantly.

John Piper (Theologian) “God’s passion for God is the foundation of God’s mercy to us.” — John Piper, Piper highlights that God's commitment to His own glory ensures His faithfulness and mercy toward humanity.

Memory Verse

Lamentations 3:22-23 - "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."

CLOSING REFLECTIONS QUESTIONS:

— In what area of your life do you most need to trust God's faithfulness right now?

— How has God's faithfulness been evident in your life story?

— How can you better reflect God's faithfulness in your relationships and commitments?

Session 9: God's Power and Sovereignty

—Printable Download

PART I: God as Creator

Scripture Focus: Genesis 1:1, Psalm 104:24-30, Colossians 1:16

Genesis 1:1 "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth."

Discussion Points:

The Hebrew word "bara" (created) appears only with God as the subject, indicating creation from nothing

God spoke creation into existence, demonstrating His supreme authority over all matter and energy

Creation reveals God's intentional design and careful planning

Psalm 104:24-30 "How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures... When you send your Spirit, they are created, and you renew the face of the ground."

Reflection Questions:

— What does creation tell us about God's character and abilities?

— How does understanding God as Creator change how we view ourselves and our world?

— What evidence of God's wisdom do you see in nature around you?

Colossians 1:16 "For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him."

Key Teaching: Christ is not only the agent of creation but also its purpose. Everything exists for His glory.

COMMENT: God's power and sovereignty are magnificently displayed in His role as Creator, establishing the fundamental truth that undergirds all reality. When Scripture declares "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1), it reveals not merely an event in time, but the ongoing demonstration of divine authority that speaks existence into being through the power of His word alone. The Hebrew concept of bara - creation from nothing - establishes God's absolute sovereignty over all matter, energy, and the very fabric of reality itself, while Psalm 104 expands our understanding to show that His creative power is not distant or detached, but intimately involved in sustaining and renewing His creation through the continuous work of His Spirit. This creative sovereignty reaches its theological pinnacle in Colossians 1:16, where we discover that Christ is both the agent through whom all things were made and the ultimate purpose for which they exist - from the vast cosmic structures to the invisible spiritual hierarchies, all find their origin, sustenance, and meaning in Him. Understanding God as Creator fundamentally transforms our perspective on existence itself: we are not products of chance or cosmic accident, but intentional works of divine wisdom and love, created by One whose power is absolute and whose sovereignty extends over every realm of existence, calling us to recognize both our dependence upon Him and our responsibility to honor the One who spoke us into being and continues to sustain us by the word of His power.

PART II: God's Omnipotence (All-Powerful)

Scripture Focus: Job 42:2, Matthew 19:26

Job 42:2 "I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted."

Context: Job's response after God revealed His majesty and power. After experiencing tremendous suffering, Job acknowledges God's unlimited ability to accomplish His will.

Matthew 19:26 "Jesus looked at them and said, 'With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.'"

Context: Jesus' response to the disciples' amazement about salvation after speaking with the rich young ruler.

Discussion Points:

— God's power is not limited by human understanding or natural laws

— His omnipotence includes power over circumstances, hearts, and eternal destiny

— God's power is always exercised in accordance with His perfect character

Life Application Questions:

— What "impossible" situation in your life needs God's powerful intervention?

— How does knowing God can do all things affect your prayer life?

— Can you share a time when you witnessed God's power in unexpected ways?

COMMENT: God's omnipotence stands as one of the most profound and comforting truths of divine sovereignty, encompassing not merely the ability to perform miraculous acts, but the absolute power to accomplish every divine purpose without limitation or hindrance. Job's declaration, "I know that you can do all things; no purpose of yours can be thwarted," emerges from the crucible of suffering where human strength utterly failed, yet reveals a God whose power transcends both our understanding and our circumstances - a power that operates not as arbitrary force, but as purposeful sovereignty that weaves even our deepest trials into His redemptive plan. Christ's profound statement that "with God all things are possible" transforms our perspective on impossibility itself, revealing that the barriers we encounter - whether in salvation, transformation, or seemingly insurmountable life circumstances - are not obstacles to divine power but opportunities for God to display His sovereignty in ways that confound human wisdom and exceed natural limitations. This omnipotence operates within the perfect framework of God's character, meaning His unlimited power is always exercised in harmony with His holiness, love, and justice, assuring us that when we bring our "impossible" situations to Him, we approach not a capricious deity who might wield power recklessly, but the sovereign Lord whose omnipotence serves His perfect purposes and whose intervention in our lives reflects both His unlimited ability and His unwavering commitment to work all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.

PART III: God's Omniscience (All-Knowing)

Scripture Focus: Psalm 139:1-6, 1 John 3:20

Psalm 139:1-6 "You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, Lord. You hem me in behind and before, and you lay your hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain."

Key Insights:

God's knowledge is complete, immediate, and perfect

He knows our thoughts before we think them, our words before we speak them

This knowledge brings both comfort (He understands us completely) and accountability

1 John 3:20 "If our hearts condemn us, we know that God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything."

Comfort for Believers: When we struggle with guilt or self-doubt, remember that God knows our hearts completely and still loves us through Christ.

Reflection Points:

— How does God's complete knowledge of you bring comfort rather than fear?

— What does it mean that God knows your needs before you ask?

— How should God's omniscience affect our honesty in prayer?

COMMENT: God's omniscience reveals the intimate dimension of His sovereignty, demonstrating that divine power is not exercised from a distance but flows from perfect, complete knowledge of every heart, thought, and circumstance. The psalmist's wonder at being "searched" and "known" by God unveils a profound truth: the One who governs the universe with absolute authority also knows us with absolute intimacy - perceiving our thoughts before they form, understanding our words before they're spoken, and comprehending our ways with a knowledge so complete that it transcends human comprehension yet brings profound comfort to the believer's soul. This divine omniscience transforms our understanding of prayer and relationship with God, for we approach not a distant sovereign who must be informed of our circumstances, but the One who knows our needs before we ask and whose knowledge penetrates beyond our external presentations to the deepest recesses of our hearts. When John reminds us that "God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything," he offers hope to those wrestling with condemnation or self-doubt, revealing that God's perfect knowledge encompasses not only our failures but also His complete work of redemption through Christ - He knows us fully and loves us still, exercises His sovereignty with complete understanding of our frailties, and governs our lives with the wisdom that comes from knowing all things perfectly. This omniscience should therefore drive us to greater honesty in prayer rather than pretense, deeper trust rather than anxiety, and profound gratitude that the sovereign Lord who holds all power also holds perfect knowledge of our hearts and has chosen to love us completely in Christ.

PART IV: God's Omnipresence (Everywhere Present)

Scripture Focus: Psalm 139:7-12, Jeremiah 23:23-24

Psalm 139:7-12 "Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. If I say, 'Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me,' even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you."

Beautiful Truth: There is nowhere we can go where God is not present to guide, protect, and sustain us.

Jeremiah 23:23-24 "'Am I only a God nearby,' declares the Lord, 'and not a God far away? Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?' declares the Lord. 'Do not I fill heaven and earth?' declares the Lord."

Discussion Questions:

— How does God's omnipresence comfort you during times of loneliness?

— What does it mean that we can never outrun God's love and care?

— How should knowing God is always present affect our daily choices?

COMMENT: God's omnipresence completes the triumphant portrait of divine sovereignty, revealing that His infinite power and perfect knowledge are matched by His absolute presence that fills all of creation without limitation or boundary. The psalmist's rhetorical questions - "Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?" - are not expressions of desperation seeking escape, but declarations of wonder at the inescapable reality of divine companionship that transforms every location into a sanctuary and every moment into an encounter with the Almighty. Whether ascending to the heights of heaven or descending to the depths of despair, whether racing on the wings of dawn to distant shores or hiding in darkness that seems impenetrable, God's presence remains constant, His guiding hand unfailing, and His sustaining power readily available, demonstrating that His sovereignty is not exercised from a remote throne but through intimate, immediate presence in every circumstance of life. Jeremiah's prophetic declaration that God fills heaven and earth shatters any notion of divine limitation or absence, establishing that the God who spoke creation into existence and knows our every thought also dwells fully in every place simultaneously, making it impossible to hide from His sight or escape from His loving care. This omnipresence transforms our understanding of loneliness, fear, and moral accountability - we are never truly alone because the sovereign Lord dwells with us, we need never despair because His powerful presence sustains us, and we cannot compartmentalize our lives because the One who sees all and knows all is present in every decision, every thought, and every action, calling us to live with the profound awareness that divine sovereignty is not distant governance but intimate fellowship with the God who is always present, always powerful, and always perfectly aware of our deepest needs.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS for Daily Living

For Times of Difficulty:

Remember God's Power: He can handle what seems impossible to us

Trust His Knowledge: He sees the full picture when we see only fragments

Rest in His Presence: We are never alone in our struggles

For Times of Joy:

Acknowledge the Creator: Give thanks for His gifts in creation

Share His Power: Testify to others about what God has done

Enjoy His Presence: Celebrate knowing He delights in our happiness

For Daily Decision-Making:

Seek His Wisdom: The all-knowing God guides our choices

Depend on His Strength: The all-powerful God enables our service

Walk in His Presence: The ever-present God accompanies our journey

Closing Discussion Questions

— Which of these attributes of God (Creator, omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent) speaks most powerfully to your current life situation?

— How has this study changed or deepened your understanding of who God is?

— What is one specific way you want to respond to these truths about God this week?

— How can we encourage each other to live in light of God's power and sovereignty?

QUOTES:

A.W. Tozer (Theologian) “God’s sovereignty is the attribute by which He rules His entire creation, and to be sovereign God must be all-knowing, all-powerful, and absolutely free.” — A.W. Toze, Tozer emphasizes that God's sovereignty encompasses His omniscience, omnipotence, and absolute freedom, underscoring His supreme authority over all creation.

R.C. Sproul (Theologian) “If there is one single molecule in this universe running around loose, totally free of God’s sovereignty, then we have no guarantee that a single promise of God will ever be fulfilled.” — R.C. Sproul, Sproul asserts that God's sovereignty extends to every detail of the universe, ensuring the fulfillment of His promises.

Jonathan Edwards (Theologian) “Absolute sovereignty is what I love to ascribe to God. God’s sovereignty has ever appeared to me a great part of his glory.”
— Jonathan Edwards, Edwards expresses his admiration for God's absolute sovereignty, viewing it as a central aspect of God's glory.

Memory Verse for the Week

Psalm 139:1-2 "You have searched me, Lord, and you know me. You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar."

Session 10: God's Relationship with Humanity

—Printable Download

PART I: God as Father

Scripture Focus: Matthew 6:9-11, Romans 8:15-16, 1 John 3:1

Matthew 6:9-11 "This, then, is how you should pray: 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread.'"

Key Teaching: Jesus teaches us to approach God as "Father," establishing an intimate, personal relationship rather than distant reverence only.

Discussion Points:

The Aramaic word "Abba" (Father) was used by small children—intimate and trusting

God as Father provides, protects, guides, and disciplines with love

This relationship is available to all who believe, regardless of their earthly father experience

Romans 8:15-16 "The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption as sons. And by him we cry, 'Abba, Father.' The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children."

Beautiful Truth: We are not servants hoping to earn favor, but adopted children with full inheritance rights.

1 John 3:1 "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!"

Reflection Questions:

— How does understanding God as Father change your approach to prayer?

— What characteristics of a loving father does God demonstrate toward you?

— How does being "adopted" into God's family affect your sense of security and identity?

— For those who had difficult relationships with earthly fathers, how can God heal those wounds through His perfect fatherhood?

Life Applications:

Daily Trust: Like children trust their father's provision, we can trust God for our needs

Open Communication: We can bring anything to our Father in prayer

Family Identity: We belong to God's family and should treat other believers as siblings

COMMENT: God's relationship with humanity reaches its most profound and transformational expression in His role as Father, fundamentally redefining how we understand divine-human interaction from distant reverence to intimate family fellowship. When Jesus invites us to pray "Our Father," He shatters conventional religious barriers by teaching us to approach the Creator of the universe with the tender Aramaic word "Abba" - the spontaneous cry of trust that emerges from a child's heart - establishing that God desires not fearful subjects but beloved children who can bring their deepest needs and concerns directly to His throne of grace. Paul's magnificent declaration in Romans that we have received "the Spirit of adoption" reveals the stunning legal and relational reality that believers are not merely forgiven sinners hoping to earn divine favor, but fully adopted children with complete inheritance rights, whose very prayers are enabled by the Holy Spirit who testifies alongside our spirits that we truly belong to God's family. This divine fatherhood transcends and heals the limitations of human parental relationships, for John's wonder at the "great love the Father has lavished on us" points to a perfect Father whose provision never fails, whose protection never wavers, whose guidance always leads to flourishing, and whose discipline always flows from love rather than anger. The practical implications of this relationship revolutionize Christian living: prayer becomes intimate conversation rather than formal petition, trust in God's provision becomes as natural as a child's confidence in their father's care, and our identity shifts from performance-based acceptance to the unshakeable security of knowing we are permanently and passionately loved by the One who calls us His own children, inviting us to live with the freedom, boldness, and joy that characterize those who know they are safe in their Father's house.

PART II: God as Judge

Scripture Focus: Genesis 18:25, Romans 2:6-8, 2 Corinthians 5:10

Genesis 18:25 "Far be it from you to do such a thing—to kill the righteous with the wicked, treating the righteous and the wicked alike. Far be it from you! Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?"

Context: Abraham's intercession for Sodom demonstrates confidence in God's perfect justice.

Key Insights:

God's judgments are always perfectly righteous and fair

He distinguishes between the righteous and the wicked

His justice is part of His loving character, not separate from it

Romans 2:6-8 "God 'will repay each person according to what they have done.' To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger."

Important Balance: God's judgment is based on perfect knowledge and absolute righteousness, not human emotion or bias.

2 Corinthians 5:10 "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad."

For Believers: This judgment is not about salvation (that's secure in Christ) but about rewards for faithful service.

Discussion Questions:

— How do you reconcile God's love with His role as Judge?

— Why is God's justice actually a comfort rather than a threat to believers?

— How should knowing God as Judge affect our daily choices and treatment of others?

— What does it mean that God's judgment is always perfectly fair, even when we can't understand it?

Comfort for Believers:

Perfect Justice: All wrongs will ultimately be made right

Divine Vindication: God sees and will address all injustices

Righteous Standards: God's judgment is based on His perfect character, not human prejudice

COMMENT: God's relationship with humanity encompasses not only the tender intimacy of Father but also the unwavering righteousness of Judge, revealing that divine love and perfect justice are not opposing forces but complementary expressions of His holy character that work together for the ultimate good of creation. Abraham's confident appeal - "Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?" - establishes the foundational truth that God's judicial nature flows from His perfect righteousness rather than human-like emotion or bias, ensuring that every judgment is precisely calibrated to truth and administered without partiality or error. Paul's teaching in Romans that God "will repay each person according to what they have done" demonstrates that divine judgment operates on the basis of complete knowledge and absolute moral standards, where those who persistently seek good receive eternal life while those who reject truth face the consequences of their choices - not because God delights in punishment, but because His holy nature demands that all actions receive their appropriate response. The reality that believers must appear before Christ's judgment seat reveals that even within the security of salvation, God's judicial character continues to operate, not to condemn those who are in Christ, but to evaluate and reward faithful service according to perfect standards that honor both divine holiness and human responsibility. This dual nature of God as both loving Father and righteous Judge brings profound comfort to believers, for it assures us that all injustices will ultimately be addressed by One whose knowledge is complete and whose standards are perfect, that our faithful service will be recognized and rewarded by One who sees all and judges fairly, and that we can trust both His mercy toward us as His children and His justice toward all who oppose His righteousness, knowing that the Judge of all the earth will indeed do right in ways that vindicate His character and bring ultimate resolution to all moral conflicts.

PART III: God as Redeemer/Savior

Scripture Focus: Isaiah 59:20, Luke 19:10, Ephesians 1:7-8

Isaiah 59:20 "'The Redeemer will come to Zion, to those in Jacob who repent of their sins,' declares the Lord."

Old Testament Foundation: God promised a Redeemer long before Christ came, showing His eternal plan of salvation.

Luke 19:10 "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost."

Christ's Mission: Jesus clearly stated His purpose—to actively seek and rescue those separated from God by sin.

Ephesians 1:7-8 "In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us."

The Cost and Abundance: Redemption required Christ's sacrificial death, but God's grace toward us is lavish and abundant.

Understanding Redemption:

Rescue: God saves us from sin's penalty and power

Purchase: Christ paid the price to buy us back from slavery to sin

Restoration: God brings us back into right relationship with Himself

Renewal: We receive new life and identity in Christ

Personal Reflection Questions:

— What did God redeem you from when you became a believer?

— How has experiencing God's redemption changed your perspective on life?

— In what ways do you still need God's ongoing work of redemption in your life?

— How does being redeemed motivate you to share the gospel with others?

The Wonder of Our Redeemer:

He Sought Us: We didn't find God; He pursued us

He Paid Everything: The cost of our redemption was His life

He Continues His Work: Redemption is both complete and ongoing in our lives

COMMENT: God's relationship with humanity reaches its most profound and costly expression in His role as Redeemer, where divine love intersects with human need through the ultimate act of rescue that spans from eternity past to the ongoing transformation of every believer's life. Isaiah's ancient prophecy that "The Redeemer will come to Zion" reveals that God's redemptive heart was not an afterthought responding to human failure, but an eternal plan flowing from His character as the One who refuses to abandon His creation to the consequences of sin and separation. Christ's declaration that "the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost" illuminates the active, pursuing nature of divine redemption - we are not merely offered salvation as a distant possibility, but sought after by the Good Shepherd who leaves the ninety-nine to find the one, demonstrating that God's redemptive work involves both the initiative of seeking and the power of saving those who are spiritually dead and unable to save themselves. Paul's magnificent description of redemption "through his blood" according to "the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us" captures both the infinite cost and the abundant generosity of divine redemption - it required nothing less than the life of God's Son to purchase our freedom from sin's slavery, yet this redemption is not grudgingly given but lavishly poured out, encompassing not only our rescue from condemnation but our restoration to sonship, our renewal of nature, and our ongoing transformation into Christ's likeness. This redemptive relationship transforms every aspect of human existence, for those who have been bought with such a price live not as their own but as beloved possessions of the One who paid everything to make them His own, compelled by gratitude to share this good news with others who remain lost, and assured that the Redeemer who began this good work will continue it until the day of Christ Jesus.

Integrating These Three Relationships

How These Roles Work Together:

Father and Judge: God's fatherly love doesn't compromise His justice—it fulfills it. He disciplines His children for their good while maintaining perfect righteousness.

Judge and Redeemer: God's justice demanded payment for sin, which His love provided through Christ's sacrifice. Justice and mercy meet at the cross.

Father and Redeemer: God didn't redeem us to make us His children; He redeemed us because we ARE His children. His fatherly love motivated our redemption.

Living in Light of These Relationships:

With Confidence: As Father, He cares for us With Reverence: As Judge, He deserves our respect and obedience
With Gratitude: As Redeemer, He has given us everything

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS for Daily Living

In Times of Need:

Approach God as Father: Bring your concerns with childlike trust

Remember His Justice: He will make all things right in His time

Rely on Your Redeemer: He has already provided everything you need for life and godliness

In Times of Guilt or Shame:

Father's Love: You are His beloved child, not a disappointment

Judge's Verdict: In Christ, you are declared righteous

Redeemer's Work: Your sins are forgiven and forgotten

In Relationships with Others:

As Father's Children: Treat others as family members

Knowing the Judge: Leave ultimate justice to God

Being Redeemed: Share the good news of redemption with others

Group Discussion Questions

Which of these three relationships (Father, Judge, Redeemer) do you most need to embrace more fully right now?

— How do these three aspects of God's relationship with us address different human needs?

— What challenges do you face in truly believing and living as God's adopted child?

— How can we help each other grow in understanding these relationships with God?

— What difference would it make in our daily lives if we truly lived aware of these three relationships?

QUOTES:

Karl Barth (Theologian) “God wants man to be His creature. Furthermore, He wants him to be His PARTNER. There is a causa Dei in the world. God wants light, not darkness. He wants cosmos, not chaos. He wants peace, not disorder. He wants man to administer and to receive justice rather than to inflict and to suffer injustice. He wants man to live according to the Spirit rather than according to the flesh. He wants man bound and pledged to Him rather than to any other authority. He wants man to live and not to die. Because He wills these things God is Lord, Shepherd, and Redeemer of man, who in His holiness and mercy meets His creature; who judges and forgives, rejects and receives, condemns and saves.” — Karl Barth, Barth emphasizes the intimate partnership God desires with humanity, highlighting the divine will for justice, peace, and spiritual living.

Herman Hoeksema (Theologian) “The Covenant of Grace is the relation of the most intimate communion of friendship in which God reflects His own covenant life in His relation to the creature, gives to that creature life, and causes him to taste and acknowledge the highest good and the overflowing fountain of all good.” — Herman Hoeksema, He underscores the profound and intimate communion God offers through the Covenant of Grace, inviting humanity into a deep relationship with the Creator.

Stanley J. Grenz (Theologian) “The divine image is essentially a special relation with the Creator which Adam lost, but Christ restores.”— Stanley J. Grenz, He highlights the restoration of humanity's relationship with God through Christ, emphasizing the redemptive work that renews the divine image in individuals

Memory Verses for the Week

Romans 8:15 "The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption as sons. And by him we cry, 'Abba, Father.'"

Final Note: This study, 'What the Bible Says About God,' is offered as a humble and thought-provoking guide—not a final word or exhaustive account. While the Bible has been our primary and trusted source, some additional perspectives have been considered to enrich understanding. Rather than presenting a finished work, this study is meant to be a starting point for a lifelong journey of knowing God more deeply. Our goal is not to explain God completely, but to understand what He has revealed about Himself in His Word and to worship Him accordingly.

What the Bible Says About God

1: God as Trinity

2: God's Eternal and Unchanging Nature

3: God as Spirit

4: God's Holiness

5: God's Love and Grace

6: God's Justice and Righteousness

7: God's Mercy and Compassion

8: God's Faithfulness

9: God's Power and Sovereignty

10: God's Relationship with Humanity