what is fullness of god

3 min read 27-12-2024

The phrase "fullness of God" is a rich theological concept explored throughout scripture and Christian tradition. It speaks to the complete and comprehensive nature of God, encompassing all his attributes, power, and glory. This article delves into the meaning of the fullness of God, exploring its biblical basis and implications for our faith.

Understanding the Biblical Basis of the Fullness of God

The concept of God's fullness appears most prominently in Colossians 1:19: "For God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in him," referring to Jesus Christ. This verse establishes a crucial link between the fullness of God and the person of Jesus. It suggests that Jesus Christ, fully God and fully man, embodies the entirety of God's being. He is not a partial representation but the complete revelation of the divine nature.

Other passages also allude to the fullness of God. In Ephesians 1:23, the church is described as the "fullness of him who fills all in all." This highlights the expansive nature of God's influence, extending to creation and encompassing all things.

Exploring the Attributes of God's Fullness

The "fullness of God" is not a single attribute but an encompassing term representing the entirety of God's being. This includes:

Omnipotence: God's unlimited power and authority.
Omniscience: God's infinite knowledge and understanding.
Omnipresence: God's presence everywhere at once.
Love: God's boundless and sacrificial love for creation.
Justice: God's righteousness and fairness in judgment.
Mercy: God's compassion and forgiveness towards humanity.
Holiness: God's perfect purity and separation from sin.

These attributes, and many others, contribute to the holistic picture of God's fullness. They aren't separate entities but interwoven aspects of a single, unified being.

The Fullness of God and the Incarnation

The incarnation of Jesus Christ is a pivotal point in understanding the fullness of God. The Council of Nicaea in 325 AD affirmed the divinity of Christ, clarifying that he is fully God and fully man, without mixing or confusion of natures. In Jesus, the invisible God became visible, making God's fullness knowable and accessible to humanity.

This is crucial because the fullness of God, in its absolute transcendence, is beyond human comprehension. Through Jesus, God chose to reveal himself in a way humans could understand and relate to.

Experiencing the Fullness of God in Our Lives

The fullness of God isn't a distant, unattainable concept. Christians believe we can experience this fullness through faith in Jesus Christ. This experience isn't passive but involves:

Prayer and Communion: Deepening our relationship with God through prayer and regular communion with Him.
Study of Scripture: Learning more about God's character and nature through the Bible.
Fellowship with Believers: Sharing life and faith with other Christians strengthens our spiritual experience.
Acts of Service: Living out our faith by serving others, reflecting God's love and compassion.

Through these practices, we can gradually grow in our understanding and experience of God's fullness. This journey is a lifelong process of deepening intimacy and devotion.

The Fullness of God and the Church

Ephesians 1:22-23 connects the fullness of God with the church. The church, as the body of Christ, is called to reflect God's fullness to the world. This means living out the attributes of God – love, justice, mercy, and holiness – in our interactions with others. It's a call to unity, diversity, and mission.

Conclusion: Embracing the Fullness of God

The fullness of God is a profound and multifaceted concept. It reveals God's complete and comprehensive nature, his limitless attributes, and his ultimate power and glory. Through faith in Jesus Christ, we can come to know and experience this fullness, shaping our lives and transforming the world around us. It’s a journey of ongoing discovery and a testament to God's boundless love and grace. We are called to reflect this fullness in all we do, showcasing God’s love and transforming the world around us.