Topical Bible: Unity of God: Exhibited in His Exercise of Uncontrolled Sovereignty

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The concept of the unity of God is foundational to the understanding of His nature and attributes, particularly as it relates to His sovereignty. The unity of God signifies that He is one in essence and purpose, and this oneness is reflected in His absolute and uncontrolled sovereignty over all creation. This sovereignty is not divided or shared, but is exercised wholly and perfectly by God alone.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible consistently affirms the unity and sovereignty of God. In Deuteronomy 6:4, the Shema declares, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is One." This foundational statement underscores the monotheistic belief in one God who is supreme and sovereign. The unity of God is not merely numerical but also qualitative, indicating His unique and unparalleled nature.

God's sovereignty is further illustrated in Isaiah 46:9-10, where He declares, "Remember the former things of old, for I am God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none like Me. I declare the end from the beginning, and ancient times from what is still to come. I say, ‘My purpose will stand, and all My good pleasure I will accomplish.’" Here, God's sovereignty is exhibited in His ability to declare and accomplish His purposes without hindrance.

Sovereignty in Creation and Providence

The unity of God is evident in His sovereign role as Creator. Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." This act of creation was not a collaborative effort but the sole work of the one true God, demonstrating His unrivaled authority and power. Colossians 1:16-17 further affirms, "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."

God's sovereignty extends to His providential care and governance of the universe. Psalm 103:19 declares, "The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all." This verse highlights God's ongoing rule and control over all aspects of creation, ensuring that His divine will is accomplished.

Sovereignty in Salvation

The unity of God is also manifested in His sovereign work of salvation. Ephesians 1:11 states, "In Him we were also chosen as God’s own, having been predestined according to the plan of Him who works out everything by the counsel of His will." God's sovereign choice and predestination in salvation reflect His unified purpose and plan, executed according to His will alone.

Romans 9:15-16 further emphasizes God's sovereign grace: "For He says to Moses: 'I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.' So then, it does not depend on man’s desire or effort, but on God’s mercy." This passage underscores that salvation is not contingent upon human action but is a result of God's sovereign and gracious will.

Sovereignty in Judgment

God's unity and sovereignty are also evident in His role as Judge. Ecclesiastes 12:14 states, "For God will bring every deed into judgment, along with every hidden thing, whether good or evil." God's sovereign judgment is comprehensive and just, reflecting His unified nature and authority.

Revelation 20:12-13 provides a vivid depiction of God's final judgment: "And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Another book was opened, which is the book of life. The dead were judged according to their deeds, as recorded in the books. The sea gave up its dead, and Death and Hades gave up their dead, and each one was judged according to his deeds." This passage illustrates God's ultimate sovereignty in executing judgment, affirming His control over life and death.

Conclusion

The unity of God, as exhibited in His exercise of uncontrolled sovereignty, is a central theme throughout Scripture. His oneness is reflected in His creation, providence, salvation, and judgment, demonstrating that He alone is God, supreme and sovereign over all.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Deuteronomy 32:39
See now that I, even I, am he, and there is no god with me: I kill, and I make alive; I wound, and I heal: neither is there any that can deliver out of my hand.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

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The Iranian Conquest
... were subjects of the Medes, but the god had replied ... to borrow money at the beginning
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