Christianity's God is both transcendent and immanent from "summary" of A History of God by Karen Armstrong
In Christianity, God is often conceived as both transcendent and immanent - a paradox that has perplexed believers and theologians for centuries. This duality is rooted in the Hebrew Bible, where God is portrayed as both beyond human comprehension and intimately involved in the affairs of the world. The transcendence of God is emphasized in passages that speak of God's otherness, power, and majesty. God is portrayed as the creator of the universe, distinct from the material world, and beyond human understanding. At the same time, the immanence of God is highlighted in passages that speak of God's presence in the world and in the lives of believers. God is portrayed as a loving and compassionate being who is actively involved in human history, guiding and sustaining his creation. This dual nature of God is reflected in the teachings of Jesus, who spoke of God as both a transcendent, heavenly father and a loving, immanent presence. This tension between transcendence and immanence has been a source of debate and reflection in Christian theology. Some theologians have emphasized the transcendence of God, focusing on God's power, sovereignty, and otherness. Others have emphasized the immanence of God, highlighting God's presence, love, and compassion in the world.- The concept of a God who is both transcendent and immanent points to the mystery and complexity of the divine. It challenges believers to hold in tension the idea of a God who is beyond human understanding and yet intimately involved in the world. This tension invites believers to embrace a more nuanced and expansive understanding of God, one that transcends simplistic or one-dimensional conceptions.
