Immanence of God
The literal meaning of the immanence of God is "to be within" or "near" in relation to God's creation. Immanence is closely related to God's omnipresence, in that God is always present within the universe, though distinct from it. God is 'within' the universe in that God is its sustaining cause. (Geisler)
"'Am I only a God nearby,' declares the LORD, 'and not a God far away? Can anyone hide in secret places so that I cannot see him?' declares the LORD. 'Do I not fill heaven and earth?' declares the LORD." (Jeremiah 23:23-24)
"In Christ all things hold together..." (Colossians 1:17)
Notes
- Geisler, p. 527.
References
- Norman Geisler, Systematic Theology: Volume 2: God, Creation (Bethany House, 2003)