Understanding God’s Presence in the Bible
The concept of God’s presence is a central theme throughout the Bible. It’s a topic that has captivated the hearts and minds of believers for centuries. But what does it mean to say that God is present? How does His presence impact our lives, and what role does it play in His plan for the world?
God’s Transcendence and Immanence
To understand God’s presence, we must first grasp His transcendence and immanence. The Lord is “God in the heavens above (transcendent) and on the earth beneath (immanent)” (Josh 2:11). This means that He is both distinct from creation and actively involved in it. His transcendence distinguishes Him from the created order, putting things in their right perspective. At the same time, His immanence allows Him to draw near to us out of the abundance of who He is.
The Difference Between “God is Everywhere” and “God is Here”
There’s a difference between saying “God is everywhere” and saying “God is here.” The former is a default category for many Christians, emphasizing God’s omnipresence. However, Scripture seems more concerned with His presence manifest in relationship and redemption. The biblical story turns on God’s being manifest with His people in Eden, the tabernacle/temple, the incarnation of Christ, and the new heaven and new earth.
Eden: The First Sanctuary
In the book of Genesis, Eden is not only the first couple’s home but also God’s sanctuary – the garden temple where the Creator and His image-bearers relate (Gen 3:8). Fast-forward to the end of the Bible, and we see a similar picture on a larger scale. All of heaven has collided with the whole earth to make a perfect sanctuary for God to dwell with humanity (Rev 21:1-4).
God’s Relational Presence
God gave humanity purpose: to “be fruitful and multiply” and “fill the earth and subdue it and have dominion” (Gen 1:28). Adam and Eve were to do this in Eden, the epicenter of God’s relational presence in creation. As their family expanded, so would the garden’s borders and God’s presence. However, sin hindered everything, especially humanity’s experience of God’s presence.
The Covenant: A Relationship on God’s Terms
In response to humanity’s disobedience, God stepped in to pay the price. He became the covenant Redeemer, restoring what Adam failed to do. Through His covenant promises, God makes a people and a place, keeping His promises to humanity. At the heart of the covenant is a relationship – one that is decidedly on God’s terms.
The Church: A Temple for God’s Presence
The New Testament calls the church a temple for a reason. Through this image, we see that the community of Christ is the instrument God uses to disseminate His presence to a lost and sinful world. The church has two clear purposes: to work within itself for the sanctification of its members and to share the gospel with the lost.
Conclusion
God’s presence has massive implications for the way we understand the church, the gospel, and our relationship with Him. It’s not just about having a “magic genie” to turn to in times of trouble. Real relationships don’t work that way – especially with the triune God. Scripture is clear that all of life, and principally the gospel life, is about being in God’s relational presence.
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