How is God described today? If we had to tell someone about him and give details, would he be described like any other god?
This is Sally from TruthNews, "can you describe God to me?" "In my mind, god is powerful but I guess not all-powerful because sometimes evil wins."
"Someone must have created god because things are not created out of nothing."
"He must have a beginning and I guess an end too, right?"
"This world is a free-for-all and god can't seem to rule, he can't be everywhere; have you seen the news?"
"I guess he needs to get some rest. Everyone gets tired! Perhaps tomorrow when he awakes things will be better."
"God, is there a god?"
It seems amusing but sadly our world is in trouble much like the days of old. We need to know about the One True God, Yahweh!
In the Book of 1 Kings there must have been some who were misinformed; a correct description of the True God of Israel needed to be proved, put on display for all to see (especially for Ahab).
In a very powerful but comical encounter, Elijah challenges the prophets of Baal with a very well known practice of that day regarding sacrifices. The prophets of Baal begin the sacrifice ritual to their god. "So they took the bull given them and prepared it." Then they called on the name of Baal from morning till noon. “Baal, answer us!” they shouted. But there was no response; no one answered. And they danced around the altar they had made." (1 Kings 18:26) Scripture reads, that they cut themselves in an attempt to have Baal light the fire.
Well, Elijah can't seem to take it any more and he mocks their efforts and their god. He says to them, “Shout louder!” he said. “Surely he is a god! Perhaps he is deep in thought, or busy, or traveling. Maybe he is sleeping and must be awakened.” So they shouted louder and slashed themselves with swords and spears, as was their custom, until their blood flowed. Midday passed, and they continued their frantic prophesying until the time for the evening sacrifice. But there was no response, no one answered, no one paid attention." (1 Kings 18:27-29)
Vague descriptions lead to unclear answers.
Well, Elijah can't seem to take it any more and he mocks their efforts and their god. He says to them, “Shout louder!” he said. “Surely he is a god! Perhaps he is deep in thought, or busy, or traveling. Maybe he is sleeping and must be awakened.” So they shouted louder and slashed themselves with swords and spears, as was their custom, until their blood flowed. Midday passed, and they continued their frantic prophesying until the time for the evening sacrifice. But there was no response, no one answered, no one paid attention." (1 Kings 18:27-29)
Vague descriptions lead to unclear answers.
"At the time of sacrifice, the prophet Elijah stepped forward and prayed: “Lord, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command. Answer me, Lord, answer me, so these people will know that you, Lord, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again.” Then the fire of the Lord fell and burned up the sacrifice, the wood, the stones and the soil, and also licked up the water in the trench. When all the people saw this, they fell prostrate and cried, “The Lord—he is God! The Lord—he is God!” (1 kings 18:36-39)
The Bible is filled with a detailed description of God. He has written to us with proof of who he is so that we won't fall for trickery or be mislead to follow false gods. He shows us who He is from the very beginning of time. He lavishes us with his love and calls to us. He reveals himself, and points to his marvelous creation that testifies of him.
We are in trouble and we need a Savior!
He takes broken hearts and heals them. He speaks to us with such tenderness calling us sons and daughters. He rejoices when arms are opened to him causing celebrations in heaven over the lost son or daughter returning home. (Luke 15)
I'm your news anchor today. I will describe him clearly using HIS own resume.
He has no beginning and no end. "Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God." (Psalm 90:2)
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His [a]only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life." (John 3:16)
Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." (John 20:27)
He spoke into the darkness and created the light. "The earth was formless and void, and darkness was over the surface of the deep, and the Spirit of God was moving over the surface of the waters. Then God said, “Let there be light”; and there was light." (Genesis 1:2-3)
"Yet the LORD longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. For the LORD is a God of justice. Blessed are all who wait for him! " (Isaiah 30:18)
"For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints." (1 Corinthians 14:33)
"For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints." (1 Corinthians 14:33)
"Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep." (Psalm 121:4)
And yes, he is the son of God! "And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased."" (Matthews 3:17)
So, how would you describe Him?
Then he said to Thomas, "Put your finger here; see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it into my side. Stop doubting and believe." (John 20:27)
God bless you!~Liz
