Brief Summary
Pastor Mensa Otabil concludes the study of 1 Timothy chapter 1 by examining a doxology, a hymn of praise common in the early church. The doxology highlights five key aspects of God's nature: He is King, eternal, immortal, invisible, and the only wise God. In response to these divine attributes, believers are called to give God honor and glory through worship and recognition of His supreme value and majesty.
- God is King, the ruler of the universe.
- God is eternal, without beginning or end.
- God is immortal, never dying.
- God is invisible, yet ever-present.
- God is the only wise God, surpassing all earthly wisdom.
Introduction to the Doxology
The passage from 1 Timothy chapter 1 verse 17 is identified as a doxology, which is a hymn of praise that was a part of the early church's worship. These hymns are often found within the New Testament and focus on God's nature, leading to expressions of what is due to Him. The discussion will cover five attributes of God's nature and two actions believers should take in response to these attributes.
Five Attributes of God's Nature
Firstly, God is King, the ruler of the universe, a strong tenet of Christian faith, with His word holding supreme authority. Secondly, God is eternal, without beginning or end, a concept difficult for humans to grasp due to our temporal existence. Thirdly, God is immortal, meaning He never dies, a crucial understanding even in times of loss. Fourthly, God is invisible, yet His presence is constant; faith is trusting in this unseen God, and physical signs alone do not guarantee belief. Lastly, God is the only wise God, whose wisdom surpasses all earthly knowledge and inventions.
Giving Honor and Glory to God
Because of God's attributes—being king, eternal, immortal, invisible, and the only wise God—believers owe Him honor and glory. Honor is valuing God, while glory is giving Him the highest acclaim through worship, acknowledging His goodness, might, and awesomeness. This recognition and worship are a response to who God is and what He has done for humanity.
Closing Prayer
The passage concludes with a prayer that summarizes the attributes of God discussed: king, eternal, immortal, invisible, and the only wise God. The prayer affirms giving God honor and glory forever.
