When we read the Bible, one of the best jewels that we can mine out of its depths is what we discover about God Himself. In fact, that is the primary reason that God gave His Word to humankind—to reveal Himself to us. So join us on a journey of “Knowing God Through His Names”, as we learn something new about God every month as we focus on a new name of God in Scripture.
“ELOHIM”
“In the beginning, GOD created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1)
Before time, there was only eternity, with no beginning and no end. Before time existed, before anything existed, God was self-existent and uncreated. We can say such things about God only because He has told us—He has revealed Himself to us. In the Bible, His Word, the very first sentence reads “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” If we believe it, this one sentence settles many questions in life:
- Yes, there is a God.
- Yes, He has made Himself known.
- Yes, He is the designer behind everything we see and experience.
The Word for “God” in Genesis 1:1 is the first name God gives to us. The Hebrew for “God” is “Elohim” and refers to the one true God. The root “El” means “mighty one, strength”. The name “Elohim” is actually the plural form of “El”, so by calling Himself “Elohim”, God is revealing to us that He is a mighty God who is plural (an early indication of the Trinity, that He is Father, Son, and Spirit!). Wow, we have learned so much about God already, even with the Bible’s first sentence!!
The name “Elohim” is used 35 times in the first two chapters of Genesis in connection with His power in creation. All of heaven must have watched in wonder as the Triune God—Elohim, the Father, Son, and Spirit—in perfect harmony wove a beautiful creation. All three persons of the Trinity were intimately involved in creation. God spoke, and light came into existence. God spoke again and made the heavens. He painted the sky without moving a hand. The power of His Word was enough to fling stars into galaxy upon galaxy with myriads of planets in perfect orbit according to His design. He spoke again and again, creating all that was in His mind to create. What a brilliant display of “Elohim’s” might and strength!
Pick up your Bible and read Psalm 19:1-6, and be in awe of the power and strength of “Elohim”. Then take some time to write down the answer to these questions:
- Why is knowing that God exists and that He is the author of creation important to you?
- How does knowing that God is “mighty” make a difference in your life?
Written by: Danny Lightner, Discipleship Program Manager
