Topical Encyclopedia
Omniscience of GodThe omniscience of God refers to His all-encompassing knowledge and understanding of everything past, present, and future. This divine attribute is foundational to the nature of God as revealed in the Scriptures. God's omniscience is not limited by time or space, and it encompasses all things, including the thoughts and intentions of the human heart.
The psalmist declares, "Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit" (
Psalm 147:5). This verse highlights the boundless nature of God's knowledge. Similarly, the prophet Isaiah records God's own words: "I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me, declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times what is still to come" (
Isaiah 46:9-10). These passages affirm that God's knowledge is not only comprehensive but also sovereign, as He orchestrates the unfolding of history according to His divine will.
In the New Testament, the apostle Paul echoes this truth, exclaiming, "Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways!" (
Romans 11:33). God's omniscience is beyond human comprehension, yet it assures believers of His perfect wisdom and guidance.
God's CareGod's omniscience is intimately connected to His care for His creation. The Scriptures reveal that God's knowledge is not detached or indifferent; rather, it is deeply personal and compassionate. God's care is evident in His attentiveness to the needs and concerns of His people.
Jesus teaches about God's care in the Sermon on the Mount, saying, "Look at the birds of the air: They do not sow or reap or gather into barns—and yet your Heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" (
Matthew 6:26). This passage illustrates God's provision and concern for even the smallest creatures, emphasizing His greater care for humanity.
The psalmist also reflects on God's intimate knowledge and care, 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). God's omniscience ensures that He is fully aware of every aspect of our lives, and His care is demonstrated in His constant presence and guidance.
Furthermore, the apostle Peter encourages believers to cast their anxieties on God, "because He cares for you" (
1 Peter 5:7). This invitation to trust in God's care is rooted in the assurance that He knows our needs and is actively involved in our lives.
Interplay of Omniscience and CareThe interplay between God's omniscience and care is a source of comfort and assurance for believers. God's perfect knowledge means that nothing escapes His attention, and His care ensures that He is actively working for the good of those who love Him. As Paul writes, "And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose" (
Romans 8:28).
In times of uncertainty or distress, believers can find solace in the truth that God's omniscience and care are unwavering. His knowledge of our circumstances is complete, and His love and compassion are steadfast. This divine attribute assures us that we are never alone, and that God's purposes will ultimately prevail in our lives.