Would The Real God Please Stand Up?

How would you define God? Who is God? Survey people on the street, and you will receive a wide range of responses. This variety is symptomatic of the spiritual condition of our world; while traditional religions have seen a downward trend in recent decades, “spirituality” seems to be more alive than ever. Despite its distinctively Christian roots, Western culture is moving towards being, in some respects, pre-Christian again. People are being drawn to modern expressions of mysticism, manifesting, and mantras. Like the pre-Christian world, their spirituality is a melting pot of beliefs that don’t always logically follow.

But for the Christian, the God who exists is clear. He is the Creator of heaven and earth. He has revealed himself throughout human history and ultimately made himself known through his son, Jesus Christ.

In the Acts of the Apostles, we read how Paul stepped into the pre-Christian culture of Athens and boldly proclaimed the existence of the One true God. Paul masterfully connects with his Greek audience and explains exactly who God is:

1. The God Who Stands Alone – He’s not one of many. He’s the Creator, Sustainer, and Ruler of all. He cannot be reduced to our image or preferences. He is Trinity — mysterious, holy, and glorious.
2. The God Who Comes Close – He’s not distant or indifferent. In Him we live and move and have our being. He’s not just a force; He’s a Father who has reached out to us in His Son Jesus.
3. The God Who Commands a Response – God isn’t just to be admired. He calls for repentance and desires a relationship. Because Jesus rose, reigns, and is returning, the only right response is surrender.

Far greater than what mere spirituality can offer, God gives an invitation to His creation to know Him and experience the fullness of life through Him.

Reflection Question:
How does your understanding of God reflect or align with the God who has revealed himself in Scripture?
What beliefs do you have that are a product of modern spirituality rather than the God who exists?