The reality of God is a foundational concept in Christian theology, affirming the existence and nature of God as revealed in the Bible. This entry explores the biblical basis for understanding God's reality, His attributes, and His interaction with creation.

Biblical Affirmation of God's Existence

The Bible begins with the assumption of God's existence: "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1). This opening statement sets the stage for the entire biblical narrative, which consistently affirms God's reality. The psalmist declares, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands" (Psalm 19:1), indicating that creation itself testifies to God's existence and majesty.

The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in the New Testament, stating, "For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse" (Romans 1:20). This passage underscores the belief that God's reality is evident through the natural world.

Attributes of God

The Bible describes numerous attributes of God that underscore His reality and character. God is eternal, as expressed in Psalm 90:2: "Before the mountains were born or You brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting You are God" . His omnipotence is highlighted in Jeremiah 32:17: "Ah, Lord GOD! You have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too difficult for You" .

God's omniscience is affirmed in Psalm 147:5: "Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit" . His omnipresence is declared in Psalm 139:7-10, where the psalmist acknowledges that there is no place one can flee from God's presence.

God's Interaction with Humanity

The reality of God is also demonstrated through His interaction with humanity. The Bible recounts numerous instances where God communicates with individuals, such as His covenant with Abraham (Genesis 12:1-3) and His revelation to Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3:1-6). These interactions reveal a God who is personal and relational.

In the New Testament, the incarnation of Jesus Christ is the ultimate demonstration of God's reality and His desire to engage with humanity. John 1:14 states, "The Word became flesh and made His dwelling among us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth" . Through Jesus, God reveals His character and offers salvation to mankind.

Faith and the Reality of God

The Bible emphasizes faith as the means by which individuals apprehend the reality of God. Hebrews 11:6 declares, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who approaches Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who earnestly seek Him" . Faith is not blind belief but a trust grounded in the evidence of God's works and His revealed Word.

Conclusion

The reality of God is a central tenet of the Christian faith, supported by the testimony of Scripture, the witness of creation, and the personal experience of believers throughout history. The Bible presents God as the eternal, omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent Creator who desires a relationship with His creation, ultimately revealed through Jesus Christ.