The Foundation Of Religion

from The Christian Reader:

The Foundation of Religion


“For in Him we live and move and exist” (Acts 17:28a).







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The foundation of religion is the character of God. The works of His omnipotence and benevolence are indeed reasons to stimulate man to serve God; however, they are not the basis for such service. This foundation is the very character of God. God possesses within Himself all glory and worthiness to be served, even if there were no creature. No creature could have its existence, except it be of Him and through Him. By its very existence the creature is obligated to God’s majesty to exist for the purpose of serving God, having its origin in Him and existing by virtue of His influence. If this creature is rational, then God, because He is God, obligates him who has been placed directly under his Creator to honor and serve God and devote his entire existence to Him. The character of God eternally obligates the creature, and therefore also man, to this. “Who would not fear Thee, O King of nations? For to Thee doth it appertain” (Jer. 10:7). “Thou has established the earth, and it abideth. They continue this day according to Thine ordinances: for all are Thy servants” (Psa. 119:90-91).



by Wilhelmus a Brakel, from The Christian’s Reasonable Service