On the Knowledge of God

Having treated in the preceding lecture upon the subject of faith, showing that it is the first principle in revealed religion, it is now necessary to consider the object upon which that faith must rest, even the true and living God, that men may know in whom they are to trust.

For it is not sufficient that a man should merely believe that God exists; it is also necessary that he should have a correct understanding of His nature, character, and attributes, for without this knowledge his faith cannot be perfect nor lead him unto life and salvation.

It is therefore evident that the knowledge of God is essential to the exercise of faith; for without knowing who God is, and what He is like, no man can place confidence in Him.

This knowledge is not left to speculation, but has been revealed from the beginning through His works, His word (davar), and His dealings with the children of men.

The first knowledge which men have of God is derived from His creations; for by them His existence is made known, according to that which is written: “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth His handiwork.” (Psalm 19:1)

And again: “For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen.” (Romans 1:20) from which it is evident that the works of creation testify of His existence and power.

Yet this knowledge alone is not sufficient to produce faith unto life and salvation; for though men may know that there is a God, they cannot know His will, nor His purposes, except He reveal them.

Therefore it has pleased God to make Himself known more fully through His word (davar), which He has spoken unto the fathers and confirmed by His servants the prophets.

Through this revealed word, men come to understand that God is not only powerful, but also just, merciful, and faithful, keeping covenant and mercy with those who love Him and keep His commandments (mitzvot).

Concerning this it is written: “Know therefore that Yahovah thy God, He is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love Him and keep His commandments.” (Deuteronomy 7:9)

From these revelations it is evident that God requires obedience, and that His blessings are given in accordance with His commandments, which He has made known through His instruction (Torah).

This same knowledge is further confirmed in the life and teachings of Yeshua the Messiah, who declared the will of God and walked in perfect obedience, showing forth the righteousness of God in all things.

For he said: “I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of Him that sent me.” (John 6:38) and again: “If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love.” (John 15:10)

From these sayings it is evident that the knowledge of God includes the knowledge of His will, and that this will is made known through His commandments and the example of those who obey Him.

It is also necessary to observe that God is unchangeable in His nature; for unless He were so, His word could not be relied upon, and faith could not exist in Him.

Concerning this it is written: “I am Yahovah, I change not.” (Malachi 3:6) and again: “With whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” (James 1:17)

From this it follows that the same God who gave commandments in the beginning continues to require obedience, and that His purposes remain fixed.

It is likewise evident that God is a being of truth; for if He were not, His word (davar) could not be trusted, and no man could exercise faith in Him.

For it is written: “God is not a man, that He should lie.” (Numbers 23:19) and again: “Thy word is truth.” (Psalm 119:160)

This truth is confirmed in all generations, for God speaks, and His word stands; He commands, and it is established.

It is further necessary to understand that God is a being of justice and mercy, rewarding the righteous and judging the wicked, according to their works.

Concerning this it is written: “All His ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is He.” (Deuteronomy 32:4)

And again: “Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin, and that will by no means clear the guilty.” (Exodus 34:7)

From these testimonies it is evident that God governs His creations according to law, and that His dealings with men are in righteousness.

It is also shown that God communicates with man through His Spirit (ruach), by which He instructs, corrects, and leads those who seek Him.

For it is written: “Thou gavest also thy good Spirit to instruct them.” (Nehemiah 9:20)

And again: “I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes.” (Ezekiel 36:27)

From this it is evident that the Spirit of God works in harmony with His word (davar) and His instruction (Torah), causing those who receive it to walk in obedience.

Therefore, the knowledge of God consists in understanding that He exists, that He is unchangeable, that He is just, merciful, and true, and that He governs all things according to His word and commandments.

Where this knowledge is obtained, faith becomes firm; for men then know in whom they trust, and can rely upon His promises.

But where this knowledge is lacking, faith cannot be perfect; for men cannot trust that which they do not understand.

It is therefore necessary that all who seek after life and salvation should labor to obtain this knowledge, through the study of His word, obedience to His commandments, and a willingness to receive His instruction.

For by these means men come to know God, and knowing Him, they are enabled to exercise faith unto life and salvation.