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Theology Proper: The Doctrine of God, Including His Nature, Attributes, and Works

Published by Brother Woody Brohm

Theology Proper, the study of God’s being, nature, attributes, and works, forms the cornerstone of Christian doctrine. A correct understanding of God shapes every aspect of belief and practice. The Word of God emphasizes that God’s self-revelation unfolds progressively throughout different dispensations, revealing His nature and plan for humanity. The God of the Bible is personal, sovereign, and transcendent, working through history to fulfill His purposes.

The Bible presents God as one in essence yet existing eternally in three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. His attributes are infinite and immutable, governing His actions in history. This essay will explore the existence of God, the Trinity, His divine attributes, the decrees of God, creation, and providence, examining each from a dispensational perspective.

The Existence of God

The existence of God is foundational to all theological thought. The Bible does not attempt to prove God’s existence but assumes it as an inherent truth: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1). Nevertheless, Scripture provides abundant evidence of His reality through both general and special revelation.

General Revelation

General revelation refers to the ways God makes Himself known universally to all people through creation, human conscience, and history.

  1. Creation: The universe bears witness to an intelligent Designer. Psalm 19:1 declares, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of His hands.” Paul reiterates this in Romans 1:19-20, stating that God’s invisible qualities—His eternal power and divine nature—are clearly seen in what has been made, leaving humanity without excuse.
  2. Conscience: The moral law within every human being points to a moral Lawgiver (Romans 2:14-15). Humanity possesses an innate sense of right and wrong, reflecting God’s image in creation.
  3. Providence: God’s control over the affairs of nations and individuals reveals His presence (Acts 17:26-28).

Despite the clarity of general revelation, it is insufficient for salvation. It reveals God’s existence but not the specifics of His redemptive plan, which requires special revelation.

Special Revelation

Special revelation refers to God’s direct communication of Himself through Scripture, the person of Jesus Christ, and supernatural acts such as prophecy and miracles.

  1. Scripture: The Bible is God’s inspired Word, revealing His nature, will, and plan of salvation (2 Timothy 3:16).
  2. Jesus Christ: The ultimate revelation of God is in Christ, who is the “exact representation of His being” (Hebrews 1:1-3).
  3. Prophetic Revelation: Throughout history, God has spoken through prophets to communicate His will (Amos 3:7).

Dispensational theology affirms that God’s self-revelation is progressive, with each dispensation providing additional understanding of His character and purposes.

The Trinity

The doctrine of the Trinity affirms that God is one in essence yet exists eternally in three distinct persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each person of the Trinity is fully God, possessing all divine attributes, yet they function in perfect unity.

Biblical Support for the Trinity

Though the word “Trinity” is not found in Scripture, the concept is consistently presented:

  1. Old Testament Hints: The plural form of God’s name (Elohim) and statements such as “Let us make man in our image” (Genesis 1:26) suggest plurality within the Godhead.
  2. New Testament Clarity:
    • Matthew 28:19 – Christ commands baptism in the name (singular) of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
    • 2 Corinthians 13:14 – Paul invokes a Trinitarian blessing: “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.”

The Role of Each Person

  • The Father: The sovereign source of all things, the architect of the divine plan (Ephesians 1:3-6).
  • The Son: The Redeemer, who accomplishes salvation through His incarnation and atonement (John 1:14, Colossians 1:15-20).
  • The Holy Spirit: The Comforter, who regenerates, indwells, and sanctifies believers (John 14:16-17).

Dispensational theology acknowledges that the roles of the Trinity manifest differently across dispensations, with the Father’s governance emphasized under the Law, the Son’s redemptive work in the Gospels, and the Spirit’s indwelling ministry in the Church Age.

The Attributes of God

God’s attributes are the intrinsic qualities that define His character and being. These are commonly divided into two categories:

Incommunicable Attributes (Unique to God)

  1. Omniscience: God knows all things perfectly, including the past, present, and future (Isaiah 46:9-10; Psalm 147:5).
  2. Omnipotence: God possesses unlimited power and authority over all creation (Jeremiah 32:17; Revelation 19:6).
  3. Omnipresence: God is present everywhere simultaneously (Psalm 139:7-10).
  4. Immutability: God’s nature and promises do not change (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8).
  5. Eternality: God exists outside of time, without beginning or end (Psalm 90:2; Revelation 1:8).

Communicable Attributes (Shared with Humanity in a Limited Sense)

  1. Holiness: God is set apart from all creation in moral perfection (Isaiah 6:3; 1 Peter 1:16).
  2. Love: God’s love is infinite and sacrificial (1 John 4:8; Romans 5:8).
  3. Justice: God deals with humanity according to righteousness (Deuteronomy 32:4; Romans 2:6).
  4. Mercy and Grace: God extends compassion and unmerited favor to sinners (Ephesians 2:4-8).
  5. Truth: God is the ultimate source of all truth and faithfulness (John 17:17; Titus 1:2).

God’s attributes remain consistent across dispensations, though His emphasis may differ depending on His dealings with humanity in each era.

The Decrees of God

God’s decrees are His eternal plans and purposes, by which He ordains all events for His glory. These include:

  1. The decree of creation (Genesis 1:1; John 1:3).
  2. The decree of redemption (Ephesians 1:4-5).
  3. The decree concerning Israel’s national destiny (Romans 11:25-29).

Dispensational theology sees God’s decrees unfolding progressively through each dispensation.

Creation

God created the universe ex nihilo (out of nothing) by His sovereign will (Hebrews 11:3). Genesis 1-2 presents creation as a literal, historical account, with humanity as the pinnacle, made in God’s image for His glory.

Providence

Providence refers to God’s ongoing care and governance over His creation, ensuring His purposes come to pass. It includes:

  1. Preservation: Sustaining all things (Colossians 1:17).
  2. Provision: Meeting the needs of creation (Matthew 6:25-33).
  3. Governance: Directing human affairs toward His purposes (Romans 8:28).

Conclusion

The study of Theology Proper provides a comprehensive understanding of God’s nature, attributes, and works, serving as the foundation for all theological thought. Through general and special revelation, God has made Himself known, and through the doctrine of the Trinity, we see the fullness of His being expressed in the distinct persons of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Each of God’s attributes reveals His infinite perfection and unchanging nature, assuring believers of His sovereignty, wisdom, and love. The decrees of God demonstrate His eternal purposes, while His works in creation and providence display His ongoing involvement in the world.

A dispensational understanding of God’s nature provides clarity in recognizing how He interacts with humanity across different ages. From the creation of the world to His governance in providence and His redemptive plan unfolding through Israel and the Church, God’s sovereign hand is evident. Recognizing the distinctions in how God administers His plans throughout the dispensations helps believers grasp the uniqueness of their relationship with Him in the present age while anticipating the fulfillment of His promises in the future.

Ultimately, studying the doctrine of God leads to a greater reverence and trust in Him. Knowing that God is eternal, all-powerful, and unchanging provides confidence for the believer, reinforcing that His promises are sure and His purposes will prevail. As we deepen our understanding of God’s character and works, we are drawn to worship, obedience, and a life committed to His glory.


“Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit.” – Psalm 147:5

All Scripture quoted from:
New International Version (NIV)
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

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But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. (2 Peter 3:18)