The True God (Part 2)

By Joe Slater

    There really is a difference between the true God and the innumerable gods devised by people. The true God “made the world and everything in it”; He is “Lord of heaven and earth”; and He “does not dwell in temples made with hands” (Acts 17:24). These three facts alone set the true God apart from pagan idols as far as the east is from the west. But there is more!

    “Neither is he worshiped with (better ‘served by’) men’s hands, as though He needed anything” (17:25a). Pagans thought the gods depended on their sacrifices for food and drink. In fact, though, the idols could “neither see, nor hear, nor eat, nor smell” (Deuteronomy 4:28). And the true God made it clear in Psalm 50:12-13 – “If I were hungry, I would not tell you; for the world is Mine, and all its fullness. Will I eat the flesh of bulls, or drink the blood of goats?” The true God is independent of His creation; He needs nothing from us.

    Far from needing people to feed Him, the true God “gives to all life, and breath, and all things” (Acts 17:25). At creation God breathed into Adam’s nostrils the breath of life, making him a living being (Genesis 2:7). Throughout the ages He has given us “rain from heaven and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness” (Acts 14:17). We depend on Him, not He on us!

    This same God “made of one blood all nations of men to dwell on all the face of the earth, and has determined their preappointed times and the boundaries of their dwellings” (17:26). Every race, every nation, every person, has descended from Adam, whom God created. Neither individuals nor nations always do what God desires; but God rules them nonetheless. He is active in human affairs, whether people realize it or not. No mere regional deity, the true God raises up nations and rulers and removes them in keeping with His purpose. Wise are those who humble themselves and seek His favor!

- Joe Slater serves as minister of the Church of Christ in Justin, TX. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://justinchurchofchrist.com