Transcendence of God #2
The Transcendence of God: Understanding His Supremacy
As we noticed last week, God’s transcendence is a fundamental attribute that displays His greatness and supremacy over all creation. We mentioned that God exists beyond and is independent of the physical universe. He is not confined by time, space, matter, or any other limitation of the created order. His transcendence invites us to recognize the profound mystery of His majestic nature. So, what does that mean for us?
Isaiah 55:8-9 highlights God's transcendence: "My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways...As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." This vast difference between God's infinite wisdom and our finite minds necessitates humility, a cornerstone of true faith. Without this rudimentary part of faith, one would have no spiritual hope. As Jesus taught in His Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5:3-4, "Blessed are the poor in spirit…Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted." Recognizing our limitations before a transcendent God creates humility and trust in us, even when we cannot comprehend His plans. Job 11:7-9 further emphasizes this through the questions of Zophar: "Canst thou by searching find out God? Canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection?" This unsearchable nature of God compels awe and reverence, prompting us to acknowledge His profound greatness and appreciate the grace of the revelation of His Word. We are, after all, finite beings whose only hope is to be reunited with Him through obedience to His gracious gift.
God’s transcendence was clearly displayed through His creation. In Acts 17:24-25, the Apostle Paul emphasizes God’s transcendent nature, declaring, “God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; neither is worshipped with men’s hands, as though he needed anything.” Thus, the God who exists beyond the physical requires no sustenance from His creation. He does not even need our worship. However, He invites us to worship Him for our own benefit. Revelation 4:11 reminds us that “all things were created for His pleasure,” emphasizing the gift of obedient worship we offer is what pleases Him. God's willingness to engage with humanity is truly remarkable despite His transcendence. In Deuteronomy 4:7, Moses asks, “Who hath God so nigh unto them, as the LORD our God is in all things that we call upon Him for?” This beautifully illustrates God's transcendence alongside His immanence, showing that while He is above all, He is also intimately involved in the lives of His creation, which He loves: us, His people.
~Casey Clement
>.PS. This week, write down a moment in your life when you felt the presence of God and thank God each day this week in prayer that He did not leave you alone. If you cannot think of a time when you have seen the presence of God in your life, then spend just 5 minutes a day of extra prayer and meditation as you study His Word to help you see more clearly.