[425 words]
This world is full of changes. Yet, the God who created this world does not change. The Bible teaches that God is an eternal, timeless, changeless being. Consider the following passages: “God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?” (Numbers 23:19); “For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed” (Malachi 3:6); “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning” (James 1:17).
From these passages, we learn the following about God’s nature: 1) God is not a man and, therefore, does not change as people often do; 2) God will always keep His promises; 3) God does not lie. Therefore, what God has said will always be true.
In view of these thoughts, there are two important points to consider:
First, since God does not change, then sinners who have not obeyed the Gospel should think about God’s unchanging hatred of sin. God loves sinners so much that he sent his son to die on the cross that sinners might have forgiveness. On the other hand, God hates sin! God’s hatred of sin will not change, and God’s requirements for salvation will not change. God requires that sinners believe in Christ (John 8:24); repent of sins (Acts 17:30); confess faith in Christ (Romans 10:10); and, be baptized for the forgiveness of sins (Acts 22:16). God’s requirements for salvation will remain unchanged. On the Day of Judgment, those who have never obeyed the gospel will face God’s unchanging hatred of sin. Since God’s nature will not change, sinners should change and obey Christ.
Second, for those who are faithful Christians, God’s unchanging nature is comforting. Since God does not change, then every promise he has made will be kept. God promises to be with his children in times of trial and temptation (Hebrews 13:5-6); forgive his people when we confess our sins (1 John 1:9); and, give eternal life to those who are faithful (1 John 2:25).
On one hand, God’s unchanging requirements for forgiveness should prompt all to obey the gospel. On the other hand, God’s unchanging promises offer security, hope, and assurance to all those who obey the gospel, live for Christ, and anticipate a heavenly home.
Mark Lindley
Chapman church of Christ
Ripley, MS