The Nature of God (AQA GCSE Religious Studies B): Revision Note

The nature of God expressed in Genesis 1 and 2

• There are two accounts of the creation of the universe contained in the book of Genesis

  • Genesis 1 is a poem that describes the creation of everything in six days

  • Genesis 2 focuses on the creation of human beings and teaches that humans are created in God’s image

• Both contain important truths about the nature of God and his role as Creator

Genesis 1 and the nature of God

• Genesis 1 describes how God created everything in the universe using just the power of his Word to bring things into being

Awaiting Image

The account of Creation in Genesis 1

• God is the only creator of everything that exists

• God is the one who created the world and gave everything life; he alone is to be worshipped as the Creator

• God is omnipotent because he created everything from nothing (ex nihilo) and made it exactly as he wanted it simply by speaking

• Genesis 1:31 describes everything God made as “very good”, showing that God’s power is perfect and purposeful

• God is transcendent, meaning he is above and beyond the created world

  • This means that God is above and beyond human understanding and cannot be fully described by humans because he exists beyond time and space

  • God’s transcendence inspires a sense of awe and wonder in humans

• Genesis 1 also teaches about humanity’s special status

  • The idea that humans were created last shows their important status within creation

  • Humans were created in the “image of God”, meaning that humans share qualities with God

  • This means that humans have a special relationship with God and a responsibility within creation

The significance of Catholic beliefs about the nature of God

Catholic beliefs about the nature of God influence how Catholics understand God and how they live their lives

• The belief in God as Creator means that Catholics believe God deserves worship, gratitude and obedience

• Their belief in God’s omnipotence reassures Catholics that God is in control of the world, even in times of suffering or uncertainty

  • This helps Catholics trust in God’s power and his plan for creation

• Their belief in God’s transcendence inspires awe, reverence and humility, especially in worship and prayer

• The belief that creation is “very good” encourages Catholics to respect life and care for the world as part of their duty of stewardship

• The belief that humans are made in the image of God means that Catholics believe all human life has dignity and value

  • This belief underpins Catholic teachings on human rights, sanctity of life and moral responsibility