Topical Encyclopedia
The concept of "God Above All" is a central tenet in Christian theology, emphasizing the supremacy, sovereignty, and preeminence of God over all creation. This doctrine is rooted in the understanding that God is the ultimate authority and the highest being, deserving of all worship, honor, and obedience.
Biblical FoundationThe Bible consistently affirms the supremacy of God. In the Old Testament, the Shema, a foundational declaration of faith for the Israelites, proclaims, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one" (
Deuteronomy 6:4). This underscores the uniqueness and singularity of God, setting Him above all other entities.
In the New Testament, the apostle Paul reiterates this theme in his letter to the Ephesians: "One God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all" (
Ephesians 4:6). This passage highlights God's overarching presence and authority in the universe.
Attributes of God's Supremacy1.
Omnipotence: God's power is unmatched and limitless.
Jeremiah 32:17 declares, "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 difficult for You" . This omnipotence places God above all other powers and authorities.
2.
Omniscience: God's knowledge is complete and perfect.
Psalm 147:5 states, "Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit" . God's infinite wisdom ensures that His plans and purposes are always fulfilled.
3.
Omnipresence: God is present everywhere, transcending time and space.
Psalm 139:7-10 reflects this truth: "Where can I go to escape Your Spirit? Where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend to the heavens, You are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, You are there" .
4.
Sovereignty: God's rule is absolute and unchallenged.
Daniel 4:35 affirms, "All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as He pleases with the army of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back His hand or say to Him: 'What have You done?'" .
Worship and DevotionThe recognition of God as "Above All" calls for exclusive worship and devotion. The first commandment given to Moses emphasizes this: "You shall have no other gods before Me" (
Exodus 20:3). This commandment establishes the expectation of undivided allegiance to God.
In the New Testament, Jesus reiterates the importance of loving God supremely: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind" (
Matthew 22:37). This commandment is described as the greatest, underscoring the primacy of God in the life of a believer.
Christ as the Revelation of God's SupremacyIn Christian theology, Jesus Christ is seen as the ultimate revelation of God's supremacy.
Colossians 1:15-18 describes Christ as "the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation. For in Him all things were created, things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities. All things were created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together" . This passage affirms Christ's role in creation and His preeminence over all.
Implications for BelieversUnderstanding God as "Above All" has profound implications for believers. It calls for a life of humility, recognizing human limitations in light of God's greatness. It also inspires trust and confidence in God's plans, knowing that His purposes are perfect and His power is sufficient to accomplish them. Believers are encouraged to live in obedience to God's will, seeking to honor Him in all aspects of life.