Where does the idea of God come from?

Is it a human invention, passed down through cultures to explain the unknown? Or is it something deeper, woven into the fabric of our being? The near-universal belief in a higher power across civilizations suggests more than mere imagination. Scripture, through the Apostle Paul, affirms that the knowledge of God is innate, revealed by God Himself, and known to all, leaving humanity without excuse.

In his Systematic Theology, Charles Hodge, whose work guides our study, argues that the idea of God is not learned but instinctive. We are born with an awareness of God, a truth rooted in Scripture, particularly in Romans 1:18–32. Here, Paul doesn’t write an abstract philosophical treatise but proclaims the gospel, declaring it “the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes” (Romans 1:16–17). Yet, this raises a pressing question: What about those who never hear the gospel? Paul’s answer is profound: God has revealed Himself to all through creation and conscience, making His existence undeniable.

God’s Universal Revelation in Creation

Paul’s argument in Romans 1:18–20 is clear: God has made Himself known through the created order. His “invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made” (Romans 1:20, ESV). The stars, mountains, and intricacies of life proclaim a purposeful intelligent design, pointing to a powerful and divine Creator. This revelation is not hidden in sacred texts or reserved for the educated; it is plain to all, accessible to every person, regardless of culture or era. Because of this, Paul declares, “they are without excuse.” No one can claim ignorance of God’s existence, for creation itself testifies to Him.

The Problem of Suppression

If God’s existence is so evident, why do many reject Him? Paul explains that the issue is not a lack of evidence but a willful suppression of truth. “For although they knew God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him” (Romans 1:21). Humanity’s rejection stems from a moral rebellion, a desire to live free from God’s holy standards. Instead of worshiping the Creator, people exchange His truth for lies, crafting idols—false gods shaped in their own image (Romans 1:22–23). As Alistair Begg has noted, the intensity of some atheists’ anger toward a God they claim doesn’t exist often betrays a suppressed awareness that refuses to stay buried. This suppression is not neutral; it is a deliberate choice to love sin over righteousness.

The Moral Law Within

Paul extends this argument in Romans 2:14–15, noting that even those without God’s written law “by nature do what the law requires.” How? Because God has inscribed His moral law on every heart. Our consciences bear witness, accusing or excusing us, confirming an innate sense of right and wrong. This universal moral awareness reinforces our knowledge of God’s holy character. To reject Him is to rebel against both His existence and His authority, saying, “I will not have this God rule over me.” Yet, this rebellion only underscores the truth: we know God exists, and we know He is righteous.

The Gospel as the Ultimate Goal

Paul’s teaching in Romans 1 is not an end in itself, but a bridge to the gospel. Knowing God exists is not enough; it leaves us accountable, under judgment for our sin. The good news is that the same God who reveals Himself in creation has revealed Himself fully in Jesus Christ. Paul doesn’t stop at proving God’s existence; he points to the coming judgment and the salvation found only in Christ (Romans 1:16–17). As believers, we must follow his example. Winning an argument about God’s existence – whether with a skeptic, a Jehovah’s Witness, or a Seventh-day Adventist – is incomplete if it doesn’t lead to the cross. The gospel is the power of God for salvation, transforming rebels into worshipers through faith in Christ’s death and resurrection.

Implications for Our Faith

What does this mean for us? The innate knowledge of God, revealed through creation and conscience, affirms several truths:

• God’s Revelation Is Universal: No one is truly ignorant of God. His existence is evident to all, from ancient tribes to modern cities.
• Rejection Is Rebellion: Denying God is not a matter of confusion but a moral choice to suppress His truth in unrighteousness.
• The Gospel Is Essential: General revelation points to God’s existence, but only the gospel reveals His saving grace through Christ.

This truth challenges us to engage the world with confidence. We don’t need to convince people God exists; they already know, deep down. Our task is to proclaim Christ, the only way to salvation. As we study systematic theology, let us marvel at God’s self-revelation and commit to sharing His gospel. The God who made Himself known through creation has made Himself known supremely in Jesus—crucified, risen, and reigning. May we not stop at showing His existence but lead others to His saving grace, trusting in the power of His Word to transform hearts.