Counsels on Christian Worldview

Counsel #7 — The Limits Of Knowledge

Picture: Counsel #7 — The Limits Of Knowledge CCW 17.1

Understanding God is like an insect trying to comprehend a human being; the difference is vast and probably beyond our capabilities. God is eternal, omniscient, and omnipotent — concepts infinitely beyond our finite grasp. Everything in our experience, unlike God, is created and limited. This contrast should give us a sense of profound humility. Our human analogies and experiences can only approximate rough ideas about God. Humbly realizing the limitations of reason and revelation is crucial. Because of these limitations, knowing and learning to understand God also requires experiencing His presence in our lives.^[33] CCW 17.2

“These things you have done, and I kept silent; You thought that I was altogether like you; But I will rebuke you, And set them in order before your eyes.” Psalms 50:21 NKJV CCW 17.3

“It is the duty and privilege of all to use reason as far as man's finite faculties can go; but there is a boundary where man's resources must cease…. Man can now only linger upon the borders of that vast expanse, and let imagination take its flight. Finite man cannot fathom the deep things of God; for spiritual things are spiritually discerned. The human mind cannot comprehend the wisdom and power of God.” Ellen White in Review and Herald, December 29, 1896, par. 16 CCW 17.4

Reflect: Consider the idea that “spiritual things are spiritually discerned.” What does this mean to you in the context of understanding God? CCW 17.5