Another Summer in Systematics
Over the course of this summer, we will pause from our exposition of Deuteronomy to enjoy a dive into the attributes of our God. As several have said throughout church history, “The foundation of our religion is the character of God.” Although Scripture paints a picture of God’s character, several attributes are summarized in short, succinct passages. These become anchors by which we can tie many threads of Scripture together.
We will divide this series into three phases - God’s existence, God’s incommunicable attributes, and God’s communicable attributes. Whereas God’s incommunicable attributes are those traits which belong to God and God alone, God’s communicable attributes are those which we see reflected in His creation. These attributes set God apart from His creation and make Him imminently worthy of all glory, honor, and praise. In them, we see who God is in Himself and for us. They form the foundation of God’s promises, the strength of our assurance, and the praises of heaven for all eternity. Our Christian practice and praise can only grow as we gain a greater insight into the character of our God.
Below, you will find an outline for our sermon series and a short recommended reading list. But I would ask one thing of you throughout this series. Would you commit one catechism question to memory? In doing so, you will find a steady source of encouragement for your Christian life and a ready-made recipe for meditation. It will shine a light as you read the Book of Scripture and the Book of Nature.
Q. 4. What is God?
A. God is a spirit, infinite, eternal, and unchangeable, in his being, wisdom, power, holiness, justice, goodness and truth.
God Is (Ps. 14:1)
God is Spirit (John 4:24)
God is Simple (1 John 1:5)
God is Triune (2 Corinthians 13:14)
God is Immutable (Malachi 3:6)
God is Immense(Psalm 139:7-11)
God is Eternal(Psalm 90:1-2)
God is Beautiful(Isaiah 53:1-3)
God is Loving (1 John 4:8)
God is Good(Matthew 19:17)
God is Sovereign (Ephesians 1:11-13)
God is Righteous (Jeremiah 9:24)
God is Gracious(Exodus 34:6-7)
Easy:
Intermediate:
Brooks, An Ark for All God’s Noahs
Johnson, The Identity and Attributes of God
Johnson, The Excellencies of God: Exploring and Enjoying His Attributes
Challenging (But Worthwhile!):
Barrett, None Greater: The Undomesticated Attributes of God
