Who Is God According to the Bible?
The Bible does not present God as an abstract idea, force, or concept shaped by human opinion. Instead, God is revealed as a living, self-existent, personal being who makes Himself known through His word. Scripture consistently speaks of God as eternal, holy, sovereign, and purposeful in all that He does.
God Is Self-Existent and Eternal
One of the foundational truths about God in Scripture is that He exists by His own nature. He is not created, dependent, or sustained by anything outside Himself.
And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.
Exodus 3:14 (KJV)The phrase “I AM” reflects God’s self-existence. In the Greek Old Testament (Septuagint), this is expressed with egō eimi (ἐγώ εἰμι), meaning “I am.” This language conveys continuous, uncaused existence. God simply is.
God Is Holy and Distinct From Creation
Scripture consistently describes God as holy, meaning He is set apart from all creation. God is morally pure, righteous, and unlike anything He has made.
Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory.
Isaiah 6:3 (KJV)The Hebrew word translated “holy” is qādôš, meaning “set apart.” In the New Testament, the Greek term hagios (ἅγιος) carries the same idea. God’s holiness defines His nature and sets the standard for truth and righteousness.
God Is Personal and Relational
The Bible reveals God not only as powerful and eternal, but also as personal. He speaks, commands, loves, judges, and shows mercy.
God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.
1 John 4:16 (KJV)The Greek word for love here is agapē (ἀγάπη), referring to purposeful, self-giving love. This shows that God’s actions toward humanity are intentional and rooted in His character, not emotional impulse.
God Reveals Himself Through Scripture
God does not leave humanity to guess who He is. He reveals Himself through His word. Scripture is the primary means by which God makes His nature, will, and purposes known.
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
2 Timothy 3:16 (KJV)The phrase “inspiration of God” comes from the Greek word theopneustos (θεόπνευστος), meaning “God-breathed.” This affirms that Scripture originates from God and reliably communicates who He is.
Why This Matters
Understanding who God is according to the Bible shapes every aspect of faith and life. It determines how truth is defined, how morality is understood, and how salvation is viewed. A biblical understanding of God provides clarity, assurance, and direction rooted in God’s own revelation.