Topical Encyclopedia
IntroductionThe concept of God's universal greatness is a central theme throughout the Bible, reflecting His supreme power, majesty, and authority over all creation. This greatness is not limited to a particular people or nation but extends universally, encompassing all of heaven and earth. God's greatness is evident in His creation, His sovereignty, His wisdom, and His acts of salvation and judgment.
Creation and SovereigntyGod's greatness is first revealed in the act of creation.
Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." This foundational verse establishes God as the ultimate Creator, whose power and authority are unmatched.
Psalm 19:1 further declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands." The vastness and complexity of the universe testify to God's infinite greatness and His sovereign rule over all things.
In
Isaiah 40:28, the prophet proclaims, "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; His understanding is beyond searching out." This passage emphasizes God's eternal nature and His inexhaustible power and wisdom, underscoring His greatness as the Creator and Sustainer of all.
Wisdom and KnowledgeGod's greatness is also manifested in His perfect wisdom and knowledge.
Romans 11:33 exclaims, "O, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways!" God's wisdom is beyond human comprehension, and His plans and purposes are executed with perfect precision and understanding.
In
Job 12:13, it is written, "Wisdom and strength belong to God; counsel and understanding are His." This verse highlights God's possession of all wisdom and strength, further affirming His greatness in guiding and governing the universe with perfect insight and justice.
Salvation and RedemptionThe greatness of God is supremely demonstrated in His work of salvation and redemption.
John 3:16 declares, "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." This act of divine love and grace reveals the greatness of God's mercy and His desire to reconcile humanity to Himself.
Ephesians 2:4-5 states, "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 our trespasses. It is by grace you have been saved." God's greatness is shown in His ability to bring life from death and to offer salvation to all who believe, regardless of their past.
Judgment and JusticeGod's greatness is also evident in His righteous judgment and justice.
Psalm 96:10 proclaims, "Say among the nations: 'The LORD reigns.' The world is firmly established; it cannot be moved; He will judge the peoples with equity." God's judgments are fair and just, reflecting His perfect character and His commitment to uphold righteousness.
In
Revelation 20:11-12, the apostle John describes the final judgment: "Then I saw a great white throne and Him who was seated on it. Earth and heaven fled from His presence, and no place was found for them. And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened." This scene underscores God's ultimate authority and His greatness in executing final justice.
ConclusionThe universal greatness of God is a profound and awe-inspiring truth that permeates the entirety of Scripture. From creation to redemption, from wisdom to justice, God's greatness is displayed in every aspect of His being and works. As believers, acknowledging and revering God's greatness is foundational to faith and worship, inspiring trust, obedience, and adoration.