Definition and Scope

Omniscience, derived from the Latin "omni" (all) and "scientia" (knowledge), refers to the attribute of God by which He knows all things. This includes the past, present, and future, as well as all potential realities. God's omniscience is a central tenet of Christian theology, affirming that nothing is hidden from His sight and that His understanding is infinite.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible provides numerous affirmations of God's omniscience. In Psalm 147:5, the psalmist declares, "Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit." This verse underscores the boundless nature of God's knowledge. Similarly, 1 John 3:20 states, "For God is greater than our hearts, and He knows all things," emphasizing that God's knowledge surpasses human understanding.

God's Knowledge of Creation

God's omniscience extends to all of creation. In Matthew 10:29-30, Jesus illustrates this by saying, "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." This passage highlights God's intimate knowledge of even the smallest details of His creation.

Foreknowledge and Predestination

God's omniscience includes His foreknowledge of future events. Isaiah 46:9-10 proclaims, "Remember the former things, those of long ago; 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 things not yet done, saying, 'My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all My purpose.'" This divine foreknowledge is intricately linked to the doctrine of predestination, where God's eternal knowledge encompasses His sovereign will and purpose for creation.

Human Free Will and Divine Knowledge

The relationship between God's omniscience and human free will is a profound mystery. While God knows all possible outcomes and the choices individuals will make, Scripture affirms human responsibility and the genuine nature of choice. Proverbs 16:9 states, "A man's heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps," suggesting a harmonious interplay between divine sovereignty and human agency.

God's Knowledge of the Heart

God's omniscience penetrates beyond external actions to the very thoughts and intentions of the heart. In 1 Samuel 16:7, the LORD tells Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart." This divine insight into human motives and desires is a recurring theme throughout Scripture.

Implications for Believers

For believers, the omniscience of God is both a source of comfort and a call to holiness. Hebrews 4:13 reminds us, "Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and exposed before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account." This awareness encourages a life of integrity and transparency before God, knowing that He is fully aware of our struggles, intentions, and needs.

Conclusion

The wonder of God's omniscience is a profound aspect of His divine nature, offering assurance of His perfect wisdom and guidance. As believers meditate on this attribute, they are invited to trust in God's perfect knowledge and to live in a manner that reflects His all-seeing presence.