A.W. Pink emphasizes that true knowledge of God arises from understanding His divine attributes as revealed in Scripture and submitting to His authority in daily life.
In this foundational teaching, A.W. Pink explores the essential attributes of God, emphasizing that true knowledge of God is not merely intellectual but transformative. He stresses that understanding God's perfections as revealed in Scripture is crucial for genuine faith and obedience. This sermon serves as an invitation to deepen one's relationship with God through submission and practical application of His Word.
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THE ATTRIBUTES OF GOD
PREFACE
"Acquaint now thyself with Him, and be at peace: thereby good shall come unto thee" (Job 22:21). "Thus saith the Lord, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty glory in his might, let not the rich glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth, and knoweth Me, that I am the Lord" (Jer 9:23,24). A spiritual and saving knowledge of God is the greatest need of every human creature.
The foundation of all true knowledge of God must be a clear mental apprehension of His perfections as revealed in Holy Scripture. An unknown God can neither be trusted, served, nor worshipped. In this booklet an effort has been made to set forth some of the principal perfections of the Divine character. If the reader is to truly profit from his perusal of the pages that follow, he needs to definitely and earnestly beseech God to bless them to him, to apply His Truth to the conscience and heart, so that his life will be transformed thereby.
Something more than a theoretical knowledge of God is needed by us. God is only truly known in the soul as we yield ourselves to Him, submit to His authority, and regulate all the details of our lives by His holy precepts and commandments. "Then shall we know, if we follow on (in the path of obedience) to know the Lord" (Hosea 6:3). "If any man will do His will, he shall know" (John 7:17). "The people that do know their God shall be strong" (Dan. 11:32).
FOREWORD
The papers which follow appeared first in the author’s monthly magazine "Studies in the Scriptures," which is devoted entirely to the expounding of God’s Word and a seeking to provide spiritual food for hungry souls. Free sample copy gladly sent on application. (Not today). These articles have been reissued in their present form through the generosity of a Christian friend who has defrayed the entire cost of their publication. Proceeds from the sale of this booklet will be used, D. V., to issue others of a similar nature. May the blessing of God rest upon it. - ARTHUR W. PINK.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Necessity of Knowing God
- Spiritual and saving knowledge is the greatest human need
- An unknown God cannot be trusted or worshipped
- Knowledge must be grounded in Scripture
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II. The Foundation of True Knowledge
- Clear mental apprehension of God's perfections
- Recognition of divine attributes as revealed in the Bible
- Theoretical knowledge is insufficient
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III. Experiencing God Through Obedience
- Yielding and submitting to God's authority
- Regulating life by His commandments
- Obedience leads to deeper knowledge and strength
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IV. Purpose and Blessing of the Study
- Articles originally published in 'Studies in the Scriptures'
- Aim to provide spiritual nourishment
- Prayerful application for life transformation
Key Quotes
“A spiritual and saving knowledge of God is the greatest need of every human creature.” — A.W. Pink
“An unknown God can neither be trusted, served, nor worshipped.” — A.W. Pink
“God is only truly known in the soul as we yield ourselves to Him, submit to His authority, and regulate all the details of our lives by His holy precepts and commandments.” — A.W. Pink
Application Points
- Seek to know God not just intellectually but through heartfelt submission and obedience.
- Meditate on the attributes of God revealed in Scripture to deepen your faith.
- Allow the knowledge of God's character to transform your daily decisions and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is knowledge of God considered the greatest need?
Because without a true knowledge of God, one cannot trust, serve, or worship Him effectively.
What is the foundation for knowing God according to A.W. Pink?
A clear mental understanding of God's perfections as revealed in Scripture.
Can theoretical knowledge of God suffice for spiritual growth?
No, true knowledge requires submission and obedience to God's authority.
How does obedience relate to knowing God?
Obedience to God's commands deepens our experiential knowledge and strengthens our spiritual life.
What is the intended outcome of studying God's attributes?
To transform the believer's life through a deeper understanding and application of God's truth.
