How Old is God?

How Old Is God?The question of God’s age is a theological one that cannot be answered in the same way as the age of a human being. According to Christian doctrine, God is eternal, meaning He has no beginning and no end. This concept is deeply rooted in the teachings of Scripture, which reveal that God exists outside of time and space as we understand it. God is not subject to the limitations of time and age. In fact, the Bible describes God as the "Alpha and the Omega," meaning the beginning and the end (Revelation 22:13).The Eternal Nature of GodIn Psalm 90:2, it is written, "Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God." This verse emphasizes that God has existed forever, even before the creation of the earth and the universe. God’s existence is not measured by time but is beyond time, as He is eternal in nature. The Bible teaches that God has no age or limitations and exists outside the confines of temporal reality (Isaiah 40:28, 1 Timothy 1:17).God’s ImmutabilityOne of the attributes of God that is important to understanding His timelessness is His immutability. God does not change, and He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). This unchanging nature of God reinforces His eternal existence. Unlike human beings or created things, God is not subject to aging, decay, or death. His nature and being remain constant, and He is fully present in all times and places simultaneously.God as the Creator of TimeIn Christian theology, God is not bound by time because He is the creator of time itself. The opening verse of the Bible states, "In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth" (Genesis 1:1). This creation of time and space by God means that He exists outside of the timeline He has created. The idea of time as something created by God further reinforces the concept of His eternal nature. God is not constrained by the limitations of time and is fully sovereign over it (Psalm 102:25-27, Isaiah 46:10).ConclusionGod is eternal and has no age in the way humans or created beings do. He exists beyond time, without beginning or end. The Bible describes God as "everlasting" and "unchanging," emphasizing His eternal nature. As the Creator of time, God is not bound by it, and His existence transcends the limitations of age or temporal measurements (Revelation 22:13, Hebrews 13:8).

Did the Church Come Before the Bible?

Did the Church Come Before the Bible?Yes, the Church came before the New Testament Bible. The early Christian Church was established through the teachings of Jesus and His apostles, while the New Testament was written, compiled, and canonized over the following centuries. The Church played a crucial role in preserving and assembling the Bible as we know it today.Biblical and Historical ContextThe Early Church: The Church began on Pentecost (Acts 2), shortly after Jesus’ resurrection and ascension. The apostles spread the Gospel orally and through letters to various Christian communities.New Testament Writings: The books of the New Testament were written between approximately 50–100 AD. These writings, including the Gospels and Epistles, were initially circulated independently.Canonization: The Church determined the canon of the New Testament through councils and theological consensus over several centuries, finalizing it by the 4th century.The Relationship Between the Church and the BibleThe Church was guided by the teachings of Jesus and the apostles before the New Testament was fully written and compiled. Early Christians relied on oral tradition and apostolic letters to sustain their faith until the Bible was formalized.ConclusionThe Church predates the Bible, as it was established by Jesus and His apostles. The Church’s role in preserving and compiling Scripture highlights its foundational importance in the development of Christian faith.

Can God Hear Silent Prayers?

Can God Hear Silent Prayers?The Bible assures that God is omniscient, knowing the thoughts and intentions of every heart. Silent prayers, though unspoken, are fully heard by God because He perceives even the deepest thoughts of His people. This demonstrates His intimate knowledge and care for each individual.Biblical Evidence for Silent PrayersHannah’s Prayer: In 1 Samuel 1:13, Hannah prayed silently for a child, and though her lips moved, her voice was not heard. Yet, God responded to her heartfelt petition and granted her a son.God’s Knowledge of Thoughts: Psalm 139:4 declares: "For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O Lord, thou knowest it altogether."Prayer from the Heart: Romans 8:26 affirms that the Holy Spirit intercedes for believers, even when words fail: "Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought."The Power of Silent PrayerSilent prayers allow believers to connect with God in any circumstance, offering a means of constant communication with Him. Whether in moments of stillness or in situations where speaking aloud is impossible, God’s attentiveness remains unwavering.ConclusionGod hears silent prayers as clearly as spoken ones. His ability to perceive the heart’s intentions assures believers that they can communicate with Him anytime and anywhere, relying on His understanding and care.

Why Did God Kill the Firstborns?

Why Did God Kill the Firstborns? The story of God’s judgment on Egypt, specifically the death of the firstborns during the tenth plague, is a significant and often troubling passage in the Bible. This event is recorded in Exodus 12:29-30, where the Lord struck down every firstborn in Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh to the firstborn of animals. Understanding why God carried out such a severe judgment requires an examination of His justice, mercy, and the context of the Israelites' deliverance from slavery. God’s Justice The primary reason for the death of the firstborns was God’s justice in response to Egypt’s oppression of His people. God had sent nine plagues before this final judgment, each giving Pharaoh an opportunity to repent and let the Israelites go. However, Pharaoh hardened his heart, repeatedly refusing to obey God’s command (Exodus 7:14-25). The death of the firstborns was a consequence of Egypt's continual disobedience and refusal to release God's people from bondage. In this sense, it was not an arbitrary act but a righteous judgment against a nation that had deeply oppressed and enslaved the Israelites. The Passover and Mercy While the judgment on Egypt was severe, God also provided a way of escape for the Israelites. Before the plague, God instructed Moses to tell the Israelites to slaughter a lamb and apply its blood to the doorposts of their homes (Exodus 12:21-23). This act of obedience signified faith in God’s provision, and the blood of the lamb served as a sign that would cause the angel of death to "pass over" their homes. This event became the foundation of the Passover celebration, a reminder of God’s mercy and deliverance. The death of the firstborns was an act of judgment, but it also highlighted God's mercy, as He spared those who trusted in Him. The Greater Redemptive Purpose God’s actions in Egypt were part of His larger plan for the redemption of humanity. The deliverance of the Israelites from slavery foreshadowed the ultimate deliverance of all people through Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, Jesus is called the "Lamb of God" (John 1:29), and His sacrificial death on the cross mirrors the Passover lamb, whose blood spared the Israelites from judgment. The death of the firstborns in Egypt pointed forward to the greater sacrifice that would be made for the forgiveness of sins. Conclusion The death of the firstborns in Egypt was a consequence of Egypt's disobedience and oppression of God's people. It served as a demonstration of God's justice, while also providing a way for the Israelites to escape through the sacrificial blood of the lamb. This event pointed to the greater redemptive work of Christ, who would ultimately deliver humanity from sin and death.

Why Does God Love Us?

Why Does God Love Us? God’s love is one of the most foundational truths of the Christian faith. But the question arises: why does God love us? What is it about humanity that warrants such immense, unconditional love? The Bible answers this question in several ways, showing that God's love is not based on our merit but on His nature. God’s Love Is Unconditional One of the most powerful aspects of God’s love is that it is unconditional. God does not love us because of anything we have done or could do to deserve it. In fact, Romans 5:8 tells us, “But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” God’s love is not based on our goodness or worthiness but on His grace. He loves us despite our flaws and failures, offering us His love freely and without conditions. God’s Love Is Sacrificial Another reason why God loves us is because of His sacrificial love. In John 3:16, we read, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” God’s love is demonstrated in the ultimate act of sacrifice—the death of Jesus on the cross. By giving His Son for our salvation, God shows the depth of His love for humanity. His love is not passive; it is active and willing to endure great cost for the benefit of those He loves. God’s Love Is Transformative God’s love is not only a gift but a transformative force. When we experience God’s love, it changes us. In 1 John 4:19, we are reminded, “We love Him, because He first loved us.” God’s love enables us to love others, to forgive, and to live with compassion. His love empowers us to become the people He created us to be, reflecting His character and love to the world around us. Conclusion God loves us because of His nature—His love is unconditional, sacrificial, and transformative. Though we can never earn it, God offers His love freely, drawing us into a relationship with Him that changes our lives forever.

Where in Exodus Does God Reveal His Name?

Where in Exodus Does God Reveal His Name? In the book of Exodus, God reveals His name to Moses during the burning bush encounter. In Exodus 3:14 (KJV), God says to Moses, “I AM THAT I AM.” This powerful declaration is the first time God reveals Himself by name, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature. The phrase "I AM" indicates that God is not bound by time or limitations, affirming that He is the eternal, all-sufficient Creator. The Significance of “I AM” The name “I AM” is deeply significant in the Bible. It speaks to God’s absolute sovereignty and independence. In John 8:58 (KJV), Jesus famously declares, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.” Here, Jesus identifies Himself with the same divine name, affirming His eternal nature and divinity, making a clear connection between Himself and the God of Israel. God's Name as a Source of Power In Exodus 3:15 (KJV), God tells Moses to say to the Israelites, “The LORD God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this is my name for ever, and this is my memorial unto all generations.” This declaration assures the Israelites that the God who was faithful to their ancestors is the same God who is now sending Moses to deliver them. Understanding God’s name helps believers recognize His power and presence throughout history. The name “I AM” is a reminder that God is always present and available to His people, offering strength and assurance in times of need.