What does "know that I am the LORD" reveal about God's character? Setting the Scene The phrase “know that I am the LORD” recurs throughout Scripture—especially in Exodus (6:7; 7:5; 10:2), Ezekiel (6:7; 12:20; 38:23), and elsewhere. Each repetition is God’s deliberate reminder that every act He performs—whether deliverance, judgment, or providence—serves the single purpose of revealing who He is. Key Phrase Explained • “Know” means more than casual awareness; it points to personal, experiential recognition. • “I am” echoes the covenant name revealed in Exodus 3:14, underscoring God’s self-existence. • “The LORD” translates the divine name YHWH, stressing His covenant faithfulness and absolute sovereignty. What the Passage Shows About God’s Character 1. God is Personal and Relational • He wants to be “known,” not merely acknowledged (Jeremiah 9:23-24). • His actions invite relationship, not detached observation. 2. God is Self-Revealing • He takes the initiative to make Himself known (Exodus 7:5). • Revelation is both verbal (His word) and historical (His deeds). 3. God is Sovereign • He demonstrates authority over nations, nature, and spiritual powers (Ezekiel 38:23). • Nothing thwarts His purposes; all events culminate in recognition of His lordship. 4. God is Faithful to His Covenant • “I am the LORD” links back to promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Exodus 6:7-8). • Every deliverance or judgment upholds His unbreakable word. 5. God is Holy and Just • Judgment passages (“you will know that I am the LORD”) display His moral perfection (Ezekiel 7:4). • Justice is never arbitrary; it vindicates His righteousness. 6. God is Gracious and Saving • In deliverance contexts, the phrase highlights mercy (Exodus 14:18): Israel’s rescue lets them “know.” • Salvation displays His compassionate nature while magnifying His glory. 7. God is Ultimate Reality • The repeated declaration dismantles idolatry and human pride (Isaiah 45:5-6). • Recognition of Him becomes the defining truth around which all life orbits. Living It Out • Trace the phrase through Scripture and note whether it appears in judgment or salvation; both reveal complementary facets of His character. • Let God’s self-revelation shape daily trust: if He acts so that we “know,” then every circumstance—pleasant or painful—is an invitation to deeper recognition of who He is. |
    |