Topical Encyclopedia Divine WisdomDivine Wisdom is a central theme in the Bible, representing the perfect and infinite understanding of God. It is often personified and depicted as a guiding force that is both creative and sustaining. In the Old Testament, the Book of Proverbs frequently highlights the importance of wisdom, portraying it as a divine attribute that humans should seek. Proverbs 9:10 states, "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding." This verse underscores the belief that true wisdom begins with reverence for God. The personification of wisdom is vividly illustrated in Proverbs 8, where wisdom is described as being present at the creation of the world. Proverbs 8:22-23 declares, "The LORD created me as His first course, before His works of old. From everlasting I was established, from the beginning, before the earth began." This passage suggests that wisdom is not only a divine attribute but also an integral part of God's creative process. In the New Testament, divine wisdom is further revealed through Jesus Christ, who is described as the embodiment of God's wisdom. The Apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 1:24 , "But to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God." Here, Christ is identified as the ultimate revelation of divine wisdom, offering salvation and understanding to humanity. Omniscience Omniscience refers to God's all-encompassing knowledge, encompassing everything that has happened, is happening, and will happen. This attribute is foundational to the understanding of God's nature in the Bible. Psalm 147:5 proclaims, "Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit." This verse emphasizes the boundless nature of God's knowledge, which surpasses human comprehension. The omniscience of God is also evident in His intimate knowledge of individuals. Psalm 139:1-4 beautifully captures this aspect: "O LORD, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit and when I rise; You understand my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down; You are aware of all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, You know all about it, O LORD." These verses highlight God's personal and detailed knowledge of each person, affirming His omniscient nature. In the New Testament, Jesus demonstrates divine omniscience through His knowledge of people's thoughts and circumstances. In John 2:24-25 , it is written, "But Jesus did not entrust Himself to them, for He knew all men. He did not need any testimony about man, for He knew what was in a man." This passage illustrates Jesus' ability to perceive the innermost thoughts and intentions of individuals, further affirming His divine nature. The omniscience of God assures believers of His sovereign control over the universe and His ability to guide them according to His perfect will. Romans 11:33 exclaims, "O, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable His judgments, and untraceable His ways!" This doxology reflects the awe and reverence that God's omniscience inspires, encouraging believers to trust in His divine plan. |