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Ian Grant Spong
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1 Minute Theology - Immanence
4 stars|9 comments|December 06, 2007|559 reads
 
Have you ever wondered how near God is? In Jeremiah 23:24 we read
23:24 Can any hide himself in secret places that I shall not see him? saith the LORD. Do not I fill heaven and earth? saith the LORD.

God fills heaven and earth. Theologians call this God's immanence. In Acts 17:27-28 we read

17:27 That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: 17:28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.

However, God is not absent, at the other end of the universe. He is immanent, quite near to us. So next time that we are feeling like God has gone way off, and is very far from us, let's remember these words from Scripture, that he is in reality very near to us at every moment. That's why Christians can refer to God as "my God" and "Abba, Father" - a first century saying of great nearness and affection for God.

 
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Gene Boecker
 Gene Boecker
December 06, 2007
I learned this in catechism as Omnipresense; everywhere at once.

And yet - immanent.
Ian Grant Spong
 Ian Grant Spong
December 07, 2007
I think there's a slight difference. Immanent means close. Omnipresent means everywhere at once.
Ronnie's blog
 Ronnie's blog
December 07, 2007
  I believe strongly. It is man (no gender intended) that moves away from God. I'm sure he wants to be near always. Man, thinks he is so great at times. He (no gender) thinks he does not need him!! This is where the distance has always came from!!
Ian Grant Spong
 Ian Grant Spong
December 07, 2007
Golden, I believe you are quite correct. Gene's comment was good too. Sorry I was so brief Gene, I did appreciate your comment.
Gene Boecker
 Gene Boecker
December 07, 2007
Aw shucks, Grant.
Forgiven
 Forgiven
December 07, 2007
This brings comfort! And also a desire to live in a way that honors Him!

Thanks,

Cathy
Pastor_Ken_and_Aminata
 Pastor_Ken_and_Aminata
December 07, 2007

Yep, that's right.... always...  immanent - always close... very present... while at the same time omnipresent....  He's God  all by Himself.

Pastor Aminata

Ian Grant Spong
 Ian Grant Spong
December 07, 2007
Cathy, you are so right.
Paul, excellent contribution. Thank you.
PK, yes.