Theology Terms Explained: “God’s Omnipresence”
In this series on the blog, we’re providing sound doctrine for everyday people by providing you with clear and simple definitions that will strengthen your theological foundation. Each article covers 4 categories including:
The Term – We lay out how it’s pronounced or synonymous terms.
The Definition – We provide the Merriam-Webster definition and an everyday version.
The Biblical Connection – We show you where the term connects with Scripture.
Used in an Everyday Conversation – We use it in a basic conversation.
The Term
Omnipresence
(om-nih-PREZ-ents)
The Definition
Merriam-Webster: The quality or state of being present in all places at all times.
FTG Expanded Explanation: Omnipresence means that God is fully present everywhere at all times. God is not divided into pieces, with part of Him in one location and another part somewhere else. His entire being is present everywhere while He remains distinct from His creation. There is no place in heaven, on earth, or anywhere in creation where someone can escape His presence. For unbelievers, this means no sin is committed beyond His sight. For believers, it means there is nowhere they can go where God is absent.
The Biblical Connection
Psalm 139:7–8 – “Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend to heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there.”
Jeremiah 23:23–24 – “‘Am I a God who is near,’ declares the Lord, ‘and not a God far off? Can a man hide himself in hiding places so I do not see him?’ declares the Lord. ‘Do I not fill the heavens and the earth?’”
Acts 17:27–28 – “...that they would seek God, if perhaps they might grope for Him and find Him, though He is not far from each one of us; for in Him we live and move and exist, as even some of your own poets have said, ‘For we also are His children.’”
Used in an Everyday Conversation
“There is no place I can go where God is not already present.”
“God’s omnipresence means Christians are never truly alone, even in seasons of suffering, loneliness, or uncertainty.”
“You cannot run from God’s presence, and if you belong to Christ, you never have to fear being abandoned by Him.”
