Beliefs and teachings: The nature of God

• Religious education
• Lower Secondary (Key Stage 3)

Beliefs and teachings: The nature of God

Learning Objectives

At the end of the lesson you will be able to explain the concept of omnipotence in the Christian understanding of God. At the end of the lesson you will be able to identify ways in which Christians claim God has shown his omnipotence. At the end of the lesson you will understand the difference between the term 'all-loving' and the concept of agape. At the end of the lesson you will be able to articulate how God is considered all-loving by Christians.

What do you already know about the nature of God in Christianity?

The nature of God in Christianity

God is fundamentally different from anything else and is beyond human comprehension. Revealed aspects of Himself through nature, the Bible, and personal experience.

The concept of omnipotence

Omnipotence: The attribute of God being all-powerful, able to do anything that is logically possible and in alignment with His nature.

Manifestations of God's omnipotence

God's immense power to do what is fitting for God, such as creating the universe, performing miracles, and overcoming evil. The story of Jesus calming the storm on Lake Galilee showcases God's power.

Interpretations of biblical stories of omnipotence

The story of Jesus calming the storm on Lake Galilee is variously interpreted by Christians both literally and metaphorically.

Understanding all-loving and agape

All-loving: The attribute of God expressing His unconditional, selfless, and sacrificial love for creation, often described with the term 'agape'.

Definition List

Omnipotence: The attribute of God being all-powerful, able to do anything that is logically possible and in alignment with His nature. All-loving: The attribute of God expressing His unconditional, selfless, and sacrificial love for creation, often described with the term 'agape'.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.