Introduction

The LORD, the Eternal God, is a central figure in the Bible, representing the supreme, self-existent, and unchanging deity who is the creator and sustainer of all things. Known by various names and titles throughout the Scriptures, the LORD is depicted as omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent, embodying perfect holiness, justice, love, and mercy.

Names and Titles

The name "LORD" (YHWH) is the most sacred name of God in the Hebrew Bible, often rendered as "Yahweh" or "Jehovah." It signifies God's eternal and self-existent nature, as revealed to Moses in Exodus 3:14: "God said to Moses, 'I AM WHO I AM.' And He said, 'This is what you are to say to the Israelites: I AM has sent me to you.'" The title "Eternal God" emphasizes His timeless existence, as seen in Deuteronomy 33:27: "The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms."

Attributes of the LORD

1. Eternality: The LORD is without beginning or end, existing outside the constraints of time. Psalm 90:2 declares, "Before the mountains were born or You brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting You are God."

2. Omnipotence: The LORD possesses unlimited power and authority over creation. Jeremiah 32:17 states, "Ah, Lord GOD! Behold, You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too difficult for You."

3. Omniscience: The LORD's knowledge is perfect and complete. Psalm 147:5 affirms, "Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit."

4. Omnipresence: The LORD is present everywhere at all times. Psalm 139:7-10 illustrates this truth: "Where can I go to escape Your Spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend to the heavens, You are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, You are there."

5. Holiness: The LORD is utterly pure and set apart from sin. Isaiah 6:3 records the seraphim proclaiming, "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD of Hosts; His glory fills the whole earth."

6. Justice: The LORD is the righteous judge who upholds justice. Psalm 89:14 declares, "Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; loving devotion and truth go before You."

7. Love and Mercy: The LORD's love and mercy are boundless and enduring. Psalm 103:8-9 reveals, "The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in loving devotion."

The LORD in Covenant Relationship

The LORD establishes covenants with His people, demonstrating His faithfulness and commitment. In Genesis 17:7, God promises Abraham, "I will establish My covenant as an everlasting covenant between Me and you and your descendants after you for the generations to come, to be your God and the God of your descendants after you."

The LORD as Redeemer

The LORD is portrayed as the Redeemer who delivers His people from bondage and sin. Isaiah 43:1 proclaims, "But now, thus says the LORD, He who created you, O Jacob, He who formed you, O Israel: 'Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine.'"

The LORD in the New Testament

In the New Testament, the LORD is revealed in the person of Jesus Christ, who embodies the fullness of God. Colossians 2:9 states, "For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity dwells in bodily form." Jesus is recognized as the eternal Word made flesh (John 1:14) and the one through whom all things were created (John 1:3).

Worship and Reverence

The LORD is worthy of worship and reverence, as expressed in Revelation 4:11: "Worthy are You, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created." Believers are called to live in obedience and devotion to the LORD, acknowledging His sovereignty and grace.