Theology Proper is a foundational discipline within Christian theology that focuses on the study of God, particularly God the Father. It delves into understanding God’s existence, nature, attributes, and His relationship with creation. The term Paterology, derived from the Greek words “pater” (father) and “logos” (word), specifically refers to the study of God the Father within the broader context of Theology Proper. This field of study is essential for forming a correct understanding of who God is and how He interacts with the world.
Key Questions in Theology Proper
1. Does God Exist?
The existence of God is a fundamental question that Theology Proper seeks to address. While the Bible assumes God’s existence from the very first verse, “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1), the question of God’s existence has been a central theme in both theology and philosophy. Theology Proper asserts that God’s existence is evident not only through Scripture but also through nature, conscience, and reason. The apostle Paul emphasizes in Romans 1:20 that God’s “invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made.” The very efforts of some to vehemently deny God’s existence often serve as indirect evidence of their awareness of a higher power.
2. What Are the Attributes of God?
Understanding the attributes of God is crucial for worshiping Him rightly. God is described as “immortal, invisible, God only wise…most blessed, most glorious, the Ancient of Days, Almighty, Victorious,” in the words of a classic hymn. These attributes are more than just theological concepts; they are essential to understanding God’s character and how He relates to His creation. Some of God’s key attributes include:
Omnipresence: God is present everywhere at all times.
- Psalm 139:7-10: “Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there! If I take the wings of the morning and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea, even there your hand shall lead me, and your right hand shall hold me.”
Omniscience: God knows all things, including past, present, and future.
- Psalm 147:5: “Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding is beyond measure.”
- 1 John 3:20: “For whenever our heart condemns us, God is greater than our heart, and he knows everything.”
Omnipotence: God is all-powerful, capable of doing anything that is in accordance with His nature.
- Jeremiah 32:17: “Ah, Lord GOD! It is you who have made the heavens and the earth by your great power and by your outstretched arm! Nothing is too hard for you.”
- Revelation 19:6: “Then I heard what seemed to be the voice of a great multitude, like the roar of many waters and like the sound of mighty peals of thunder, crying out, ‘Hallelujah! For the Lord our God the Almighty reigns.'”
Eternality: God has no beginning and no end; He exists outside of time.
- Psalm 90:2: “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever you had formed the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.”
- Revelation 1:8: “I am the Alpha and the Omega, says the Lord God, who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”
Other attributes include God’s immutability (unchanging nature), holiness, justice, love, grace, mercy, and sovereignty. Each attribute contributes to a fuller understanding of God’s infinite and perfect nature, leading believers to glorify and praise Him.
3. What Does the Bible Teach About the Trinity?
The doctrine of the Trinity is one of the most profound and mysterious aspects of Christian theology. It teaches that God is one in essence but exists eternally in three distinct persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit. While the Trinity is a complex and incomprehensible concept for the human mind, it is nevertheless a biblical truth. The Bible reveals the unity and distinctiveness of the three persons of the Godhead in passages like Matthew 28:19, where Jesus instructs His disciples to baptize “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.”
Understanding the Trinity is crucial because it affects our comprehension of God’s nature and His work in salvation. The Father is often seen as the planner of salvation, the Son as the accomplisher through His life, death, and resurrection, and the Holy Spirit as the applier, bringing believers to faith and sanctifying them.
4. Is God Sovereign, or Do We Have Free Will?
The relationship between God’s sovereignty and human free will is a deeply debated topic in Christian theology. Theology Proper explores how God’s sovereignty—His absolute authority and control over all things—coexists with human free will, particularly in matters of salvation. While humans are responsible for their choices, Scripture affirms that God is ultimately in control of the universe and that His purposes will be accomplished (Isaiah 46:9-10).
In the context of salvation, this question often centers on whether individuals have the free will to accept or reject God’s offer of salvation, or whether God’s grace is irresistibly applied to those whom He has chosen. Theology Proper acknowledges the mystery of this relationship, affirming that God’s sovereignty does not negate human responsibility, nor does human free will undermine God’s sovereign plan.
The Attributes and Actions of God
Theology Proper is not merely academic; it has practical implications for how we relate to God. By studying His attributes, such as omnipresence, omniscience, omnipotence, and eternality, we gain a deeper understanding of who God is. This knowledge helps correct common misconceptions about God, whether viewing Him as a distant tyrant devoid of love or as a permissive friend who ignores justice.
- God’s Omnipresence assures us that He is always with us, regardless of our circumstances.
- God’s Omniscience reminds us that nothing is hidden from Him, and He knows our deepest thoughts and needs.
- God’s Omnipotence provides comfort in knowing that nothing is too difficult for Him, and His plans cannot be thwarted.
- God’s Eternality gives us hope in the promise of eternal life, knowing that God’s purposes extend beyond the temporal world.
Theology Proper also explores the distinct roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Paterology, in particular, focuses on how God the Father is distinct from the Son and the Holy Spirit, yet works in perfect unity with them. Understanding these distinctions is vital for developing a biblical understanding of the Godhead and for fostering a proper relationship with God.
Misconceptions About God
A correct understanding of God is essential because misconceptions can lead to flawed worship and distorted faith. Some people view God as a harsh judge who is only interested in punishment, neglecting His attributes of love and mercy. Others may see God as overly lenient, ignoring His holiness and justice. Theology Proper helps believers balance these attributes, recognizing that God is both loving and just, merciful and righteous. He forgives sin but also judges it, and He offers grace while maintaining His standards of holiness.
Conclusion
Theology Proper, or Paterology, provides a comprehensive study of God the Father and His attributes, helping believers to understand and relate to Him rightly. Romans 11:33 beautifully captures the essence of this study: “Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable his judgments, and his paths beyond tracing out!” As we explore the depths of God’s nature, we are drawn into deeper worship and a more profound relationship with Him. By knowing who God is and what He does, we can approach Him with reverence, trust, and love, fully aware of His majesty and His intimate involvement in our lives.
