Topical Encyclopedia
God's OmniscienceThe concept of God's omniscience is foundational to understanding His nature and His relationship with creation. God's knowledge is complete and perfect, encompassing all things past, present, and future. The psalmist declares, "Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit" (
Psalm 147:5). This infinite understanding signifies that nothing is hidden from God, as He perceives all things with absolute clarity.
In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul affirms God's comprehensive knowledge, stating, "Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways!" (
Romans 11:33). This passage highlights the profound and unfathomable nature of God's wisdom, which surpasses human comprehension.
God's ForeknowledgeGod's foreknowledge is an extension of His omniscience, wherein He knows all events before they occur. This is evident in the prophetic declarations found throughout Scripture. Isaiah records God's words: "I declare the end from the beginning, and ancient times from what is still to come. I say, 'My purpose will stand, and all My good pleasure I will accomplish'" (
Isaiah 46:10). God's foreknowledge is not passive but active, as He orchestrates history according to His divine will.
God's Personal Knowledge of IndividualsGod's knowledge is not limited to generalities but extends to intimate details of individual lives. Jesus teaches that God is aware of even the smallest aspects of His creation: "Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered" (
Matthew 10:29-30). This passage illustrates God's meticulous care and attention to each person.
The psalmist also reflects on God's intimate knowledge of individuals, writing, "You know when I sit and when I rise; You understand my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down; You are aware of all my ways" (
Psalm 139:2-3). Such knowledge underscores God's personal involvement in the lives of His people.
God's Providential CareGod's care for His creation is a central theme throughout the Bible. His providence is the means by which He sustains and governs all things. Jesus reassures His followers of God's provision, saying, "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?" (
Matthew 6:25). This teaching emphasizes trust in God's provision and care.
The Apostle Peter encourages believers to cast their anxieties on God, "because He cares for you" (
1 Peter 5:7). This invitation to rely on God's care is rooted in the assurance of His constant presence and concern for His people.
God's Care in SalvationGod's ultimate expression of care is manifested in the salvation offered through Jesus Christ. The Apostle John writes, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life" (
John 3:16). This sacrificial love demonstrates God's profound care for humanity, providing a way for reconciliation and eternal life.
Paul further elaborates on God's care in salvation, stating, "But God proves His love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (
Romans 5:8). This act of grace underscores the depth of God's love and His desire for a restored relationship with His creation.
ConclusionThe biblical portrayal of God's knowledge and care reveals a God who is both transcendent and immanent. His omniscience assures believers of His sovereign control, while His providential care provides comfort and hope. Through His intimate knowledge of individuals and His redemptive work in Christ, God demonstrates His unwavering commitment to His creation.