GOD’s Omniscience
Omniscience is the divine attribute by which God possesses complete, infinite knowledge of all things, including past, present, future, and all possibilities.
Definition and Nature
In biblical terms, omniscience refers to God’s all-encompassing knowledge, meaning nothing is hidden from Him. He knows every thought, intention, and action, as well as all events in creation, whether large or small (Psalm 147:5; 1 John 3:20). Unlike human understanding, which is limited and fallible, God’s knowledge is infinite, perfect, and unchanging (Hebrews 4:13). This attribute is intrinsic to His nature, so God cannot learn anything new or be surprised by any event.
Scriptural Illustrations
The Bible provides numerous examples of God’s omniscience:
- Intimate knowledge of creation: Jesus notes that not even a sparrow falls without God’s awareness, and even the hairs on a person’s head are numbered (Matthew 10:29-30).
- Foreknowledge of future events: God declares the end from the beginning, showing His knowledge of all history and His sovereign purposes (Isaiah 46:9-10).
- Knowledge of human hearts: God knows our thoughts, motives, and actions even before we speak (Psalm 139:1-4; 1 Kings 8:39).
Theological Significance
God’s omniscience is closely linked to His sovereignty, wisdom, and eternity. It assures believers that nothing occurs outside His knowledge or control, providing comfort and security (Psalm 33:13-15; Romans 1:20). While God’s knowledge encompasses all creation, it is distinct from His act of creation; His intellect and will are separate faculties, and His knowledge is rooted in His self-knowledge (Acts 17:27; Romans 1:20).
Relationship to Other Divine Attributes
Omniscience complements God’s omnipotence and omnipresence, forming the “omni” attributes that define His lordship over creation. Together, they affirm that God is all-powerful, all-knowing, and present everywhere, ensuring that His purposes are always accomplished (Psalm 115:3; Isaiah 55:11).
Summary
In essence, omniscience is God’s perfect, infinite knowledge of all things, encompassing every detail of creation, every human thought, and all future events. It underscores His sovereignty, wisdom, and intimate involvement in the world, offering believers assurance that God is fully aware of and in control of all circumstances.
Koran Contradiction 