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What are the communicable and incommunicable attributes of God?

What are the communicable and incommunicable attributes of God?

1. What is the difference between communicable and incommunicable attributes of God?

The communicable and incommunicable attributes of God refer to the characteristics that can and cannot be shared with human beings. Communicable attributes are those qualities that God possesses which can also be found, to a lesser degree, in humans. On the other hand, incommunicable attributes are those qualities unique to God alone.

2. What are some examples of communicable attributes?

Examples of communicable attributes include love, wisdom, justice, mercy, and holiness. These attributes are shared by God with humanity, although humans possess them in a limited and imperfect way compared to God.

3. Can you explain the attribute of love as a communicable attribute?

Love is one of the most essential communicable attributes of God. It is a selfless and unconditional love that seeks the well-being and flourishing of others. While humans are capable of love, it is often tainted by selfishness and limited by our finite nature. God’s love, however, is perfect and unfailing, demonstrated through His sacrificial actions.

4. What are some examples of incommunicable attributes?

Examples of incommunicable attributes include eternity, omnipresence, omniscience, omnipotence, and immutability. These attributes are unique to God and cannot be fully comprehended or attained by human beings.

5. How does God’s attribute of eternity differentiate from human understanding of time?

God’s attribute of eternity means that He exists outside the constraints of time. He is not bound by past, present, or future as humans are. While we experience time as a linear progression, God encompasses all of time simultaneously. It is a concept beyond our full comprehension, but it emphasizes God’s eternal nature.

6. Can humans possess any incommunicable attributes?

As finite beings, humans cannot possess incommunicable attributes in their entirety. However, through our relationship with God, we can experience glimpses or aspects of His attributes. For example, through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, believers may experience a sense of God’s presence or wisdom.

7. How do the communicable and incommunicable attributes of God relate to His revelation?

God reveals Himself to humanity through His attributes. His communicable attributes allow us to relate to Him and understand His character, while His incommunicable attributes remind us of His transcendence and otherness. God’s revelation in both His Word and in creation unveils aspects of His attributes.

8. How can an understanding of God’s attributes impact our daily lives?

Understanding and reflecting on God’s attributes can deeply impact our daily lives. They inspire awe, gratitude, and humility as we recognize God’s greatness. They also serve as a model for us to grow in our own character and virtues, such as love, justice, and mercy. Embracing these attributes can transform our relationships, decisions, and worldview.

9. Are there any attributes of God that are both communicable and incommunicable?

While most attributes fall into either the communicable or incommunicable category, some attributes possess elements that are both shared and unique to God. For instance, God’s holiness is both communicable and incommunicable. Humans can strive to be holy as God is holy, but our holiness is imperfect and derived from God’s nature.

10. Can we fully comprehend or exhaustively know God’s attributes?

As finite beings, our ability to comprehend God’s attributes is limited. While God has revealed Himself to us, the full extent of His attributes remains beyond our complete understanding. We can know what God has chosen to reveal about Himself, but there will always be an element of mystery and wonder in the depths of God’s being.

11. Is it important to study and explore God’s attributes?

Studying and exploring God’s attributes is crucial for developing a deeper understanding of who God is and for growing in our relationship with Him. It enriches our worship and enables us to more fully appreciate His character and actions. Moreover, a deeper knowledge of God’s attributes provides a solid foundation in our faith and equips us to answer questions and challenges about God’s nature.

12. How should we approach the study of God’s attributes with humility?

Approaching the study of God’s attributes with humility is essential because we are finite beings attempting to comprehend the infinite. We should acknowledge our limitations and recognize that our understanding is incomplete. Humility allows us to learn from others, engage in constructive dialogue, and constantly seek a deeper knowledge of God.

13. Are there any dangers in focusing solely on God’s communicable attributes or solely on His incommunicable attributes?

Focusing solely on God’s communicable attributes without acknowledging His incommunicable attributes may lead to an imbalanced and distorted understanding of God. Emphasizing only God’s love while neglecting His holiness or justice can undermine the gravity of sin and the need for repentance. Similarly, focusing solely on God’s incommunicable attributes without recognizing His love and mercy can lead to a distant and fearful perception of God.

14. How can the knowledge of God’s attributes shape our view of suffering and hardship?

Knowing and understanding God’s attributes can provide comfort and hope in times of suffering and hardship. Recognizing His attributes of love, mercy, and sovereignty reminds us that God is with us in our pain and that He is working all things for our ultimate good, even when we cannot comprehend His plans. It encourages us to trust in His purposes and find solace in His unchanging character.

15. How can the knowledge of God’s attributes impact our relationships with others?

An understanding of God’s attributes can profoundly impact our relationships with others. God’s love and mercy inspire us to extend grace and forgiveness to others. His justice calls us to pursue fairness and fight against oppression. His wisdom guides us in cultivating healthy and uplifting relationships. Applying these attributes in our interactions fosters unity, compassion, and reconciliation.

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