The Existence and Attributes of God summary

The Nature of God

In The Existence and Attributes of God by Stephen Charnock, we embark on a profound exploration of the nature and attributes of God as understood through the lens of Christian theology. Charnock begins by asserting that the existence of God is self-evident, and as such, requires no proof. He argues that the existence of the universe, its order, and the intricacy of its design all point to the existence of a supreme being, whom he refers to as God.

Charnock proceeds to examine the attributes of God, beginning with His spirituality, infinity, and simplicity. He explains that God is not composed of parts and is not limited by space or time. Instead, He is a pure, simple, and infinite spirit. He also addresses God's immutability, arguing that God, being perfect, cannot change. His immutability, Charnock asserts, is the foundation of all our hopes and the source of all our comforts.

The Goodness and Holiness of God

Charnock then delves into the moral attributes of God, focusing on His goodness and holiness. He describes God's goodness as His readiness to communicate happiness, and His holiness as His abhorrence of all evil. He argues that these attributes, while seemingly contradictory, are perfectly harmonized in God's nature. God's goodness, Charnock contends, is not at the expense of His holiness, and His holiness is not at the expense of His goodness.

Charnock's exploration of God's holiness is particularly deep and thought-provoking. He explains that God's holiness is the foundation of His hatred for sin and His love for righteousness. He emphasizes that God's hatred for sin is not a result of any injury done to Him, but rather an expression of His infinite love for His creatures and His desire to see them happy.

God's Sovereignty and Justice

Charnock then moves on to discuss God's sovereignty and justice. He argues that God's sovereignty is an essential attribute, without which He would not be God. God's sovereignty, Charnock explains, refers to His absolute, independent, and uncontrollable power over all His creatures and all their actions. He asserts that God's sovereignty is not arbitrary but is always exercised in perfect harmony with His other attributes, particularly His justice.

Charnock's discussion of God's justice is equally profound. He contends that God's justice is not opposed to His mercy but rather serves to magnify it. He explains that God's justice requires that sin be punished, but His mercy provides a way for sinners to be reconciled to Him. In this way, justice and mercy meet in perfect harmony in the person and work of Jesus Christ.

Conclusion: The Mystery of God

In conclusion, The Existence and Attributes of God by Stephen Charnock offers a deep and comprehensive exploration of the nature and attributes of God. Charnock's work is a testament to the mystery and majesty of God, and the limitations of human understanding in comprehending His infinite being. He invites us to contemplate the greatness of God and to respond with awe, reverence, and worship.