The Incomparable God
The incomparable God. There is no comparison to the one true God. Creator of the universe and all life. Author of the Bible. Father of Jesus Christ. And Savior of all who seek his salvation. Here’s what separates him from all other gods.
To whom will you liken me and make me equal, and compare me, that we may be alike? (ESV, Isaiah 46:5)
I am God, and there is none like me, declaring the end from the beginning and from ancient times things not yet done, saying, ‘My counsel shall stand, and I will accomplish all my purpose. (ESV, Isaiah 46:9-10)
God does not make arrogant boasts. But states the divine truth. He is above all gods of other religions. Distinct from every human philosophy and speculation. Sure-handedly guiding world history toward his planned conclusion.
The incomparable God. The great I AM.
Then the fire of the Lord fell and consumed the burnt offering and the wood and the stones and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench. When all the people saw it, they fell on their faces and said, “The Lord, he is God; the Lord, he is God.” (ESV, 1 Kings 18:38-39)
“I am the greatest” are the words of famous boxer Muhammad Ali. Indeed, a legendary fighter who secured his place in history as one of the best of all times. But he died. However, God Almighty is the great I AM. Who alone, is eternal. Over all, through all, and in all.
You call upon the name of your god, and I will call upon the name of the Lord, (ESV, 1 Kings 18:24)
A contest of comparison
Elijah the prophet challenged the 450 prophets of Baal to a contest between Baal and the Lord. Two alters, built side by side, on top of Mount Carmel. Each with a bull sacrifice and wood for fire. And the prophets would call on their god to light the fire. The 450 prophets of Baal went first. They circled the alter, calling on Baal in vain to send fire. Even to the point of slashing themselves with knives. But nothing happened except they bled everywhere. Then Elijah saturated his alter with water and called on the one true God. And fire fell from heaven and consumed it all.
Although God seldom displays his power in this dramatic fashion today, he does so in other ways. For example, through the amazing and intricate beauty of his creation. Answered prayer to his people. And the transformed lives of his followers.
The incomparable God. His purpose is unstoppable.
I have spoken, and I will bring it to pass; I have purposed, and I will do it. (ESV, Isaiah 46:11)
What is God’s purpose? It is to gather all people to him for eternity. Not by compulsion. But persuasively. Through his love and grace.
However, our world is broken by sin. And it separates us from the incomparable God. Furthermore, we’re lost and powerless against it. But God provided a way through his Son, Jesus Christ. He sacrificed himself on a cross to break the bondage of sin. Redeem us through his blood. Restore our relationship with God. And open the door to eternal life.
Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. (ESV, Revelation 21:1)
A life without God likely views a gloom and doom conclusion to this world. Certainly without hope. Ended suddenly by the annihilation of nuclear war or slowly through climate change. But God’s word says the earth will be remade into a new one that’s even better.
The incomparable God. His righteousness is near.
“Listen to me, you stubborn of heart, you who are far from righteousness: I bring near my righteousness; it is not far off, and my salvation will not delay. (ESV, Isaiah 46:12-13)
God is righteous. And he sent his righteousness to us in the form of Jesus Christ. As God’s son, Jesus lived a perfectly righteous life and sacrificed himself for our sin. By confessing our sins to Jesus and seeking his forgiveness, we are redeemed from sin, granted his righteousness, and adopted as children of God.
Jesus invites us into a relationship with him and the incomparable God waits patiently for us to respond. But as God draws history to a close, the open door to salvation closes too. And God’s righteousness is forever lost to those who reject him.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is an author, blogger and professional writer. He publishes books, humorous Christian drama, and thought provoking blogs from a Christian worldview. This blog is originally published here.
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