The term "Almighty," which occurs twice in the Creed, represents two
Greek words, the one denoting absolute dominion, the other infinite
power in operation. When we say that God the Father is Almighty, we
affirm that He is possessed of entire freedom of action, and that His
power is unlimited. He cannot, indeed, act in opposition to His own
nature. In executing His eternal decrees none can stay His hand from
working, but He can do nothing that would derogate from His eternal
power and Godhead. Such inability has its origin not in any limitation
of power, or restriction imposed from without, but in Himself. He knows
all things and so cannot be tempted of evil. He can do whatever He
wills, but His will cannot contradict His character.
The statement that God is Almighty implies that all beings are governed
and controlled by Him. All things, save Himself, are His creatures and
subject to Him. Even those things that seem to resist and defy His
authority are under His government. Rebellion serves but to make His
omnipotence more apparent, for He causeth the wrath of man to praise
Him, and the remainder of wrath He restraineth.[025] He so governs the
universe that all things work together, and work together for good to
them that love Him.[026]
When we say, "God the Father Almighty," it is not meant that the Son and
the Holy Ghost are not Almighty. The Father is Almighty because He is
God, the Son, who is one with the Father, is God and therefore Almighty,
and the Holy Ghost is also God and therefore Almighty. In the unity of
the Godhead the same attributes mark the three Persons.
SECTION 5.--MAKER OF HEAVEN AND EARTH
Belief in the Almighty power of God is further declared by a confession
of faith in Him as the Maker of heaven and earth, and this is but a
repetition of the statement contained in the first chapter of
Genesis--the only account of Creation which is fitted to solve all
difficulties and to meet all objections. "Maker" in this article is used
in the sense of Creator, implying that heaven and earth were called into
existence out of nothing by the word of Divine power; and by "heaven and
earth" are meant all creatures, visible and invisible, that have existed
or do exist.
Those who object to the Scripture statements regarding Creation have
maintained views as to the origin of the material universe differing
largely from those held by persons who accept this article of the Creed,
and differing also greatly from one another. Various solutions have been
given, among which may be stated:--
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