Contemporary Conversations on Christian Classics

S2E17 - The Unchanging God: Finding Hope in God's Immutability


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Join us as we delve into the profound concept of God's immutability, drawing from Steven Charnock's "The Existence and Attributes of God". This episode explores the unique nature of God as unchanging, setting Him apart from all creation. We examine how this attribute relates to Christ's divinity, referencing Hebrews 1:10-12 and Psalm 102:25-27, where Christ's immutability is presented as evidence of his deity. The discussion clarifies how God's unchanging nature is not contradicted by biblical passages where God appears to change His mind. We explore the idea that these apparent changes are due to our responses to Him, rather than changes in God Himself. We use the analogy of a potter and clay to understand this concept, emphasizing that God’s character and purpose remain consistent.

This episode further discusses how God's actions are responsive to our choices, using examples from the Bible such as Nineveh and Hezekiah, demonstrating God's consistent will and desire for mercy. The concept of free will and God's sovereignty are touched upon, emphasizing that despite our choices, God's unchanging nature is a constant. We explore the contrast between the constant change within creation and God's immutability, noting that everything created is subject to change and dependent on God. The reasons behind creation's changeability are examined, highlighting our origin from nothing and our dependence on God.

We also analyze how God's emotions, such as love and anger, are consistent with His unchanging holiness, using the analogy of a mirror reflecting what is placed before it. The episode clarifies that God’s responses differ based on our actions, much like the sun’s light being absorbed or reflected by different objects. God's laws, which may appear to change throughout history, are seen as adaptations to meet the needs of His people. This is likened to a parent or physician adapting their approach based on the situation. The practical implications of God's immutability are explored, emphasizing the comfort and security it provides to believers.

Finally, the episode connects God’s immutability to worship, highlighting the freedom and confidence it brings, as opposed to worshiping a changing deity. The inherent changeability of human beings is contrasted with God's steadfastness. We realize that it is only through God's grace and transformation in Christ that we can become more like him, growing in steadfastness. The episode concludes with an invitation to meditate on God's immutability and experience its transformative power in our lives.

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Contemporary Conversations on Christian ClassicsBy CCCC Podcast