There is only one God

We have probably heard or read the name “god” (with a lowercase g), a word used casually in many contexts to refer to mythical objects, imaginary beings, cartoon characters, or figures in films and ancient cultures. Throughout history, humanity has created countless images, figures, and concepts to which they attribute some type of divine power. However, through all the Scriptures we learn that there has only ever been—and will always be—one true God: the Father and Creator of all things, the One who deserves all honor, glory, and power.

The apostle Paul made this very clear to the Corinthians, a city surrounded by idolatry, temples, and statues dedicated to various so-called gods. In the midst of that environment, Paul wanted the church to understand a fundamental truth: no matter what names people invent or what images they worship, there is only one true and living God.

5 For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,)
6 But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.

1 Corinthians 8:5-6

Paul made it clear that although the world may speak of “many gods and many lords,” these so-called deities are nothing but human inventions. People can give them names, build altars, carve images, and even attribute supernatural stories to them, but none of them have real power. They cannot move on their own; they must be carried by the same humans who created them. They cannot speak, hear, or save. They are lifeless objects that depend entirely on those who worship them.

In contrast, the apostle emphasizes a powerful truth: *“But to us…”*—to the church, to the believers, to those who know the Scriptures—there is only one God, the Father. He is the source of all things, the sustainer of creation, the giver of life. Everything exists because of Him, and we live in Him and through Him. And Paul adds that there is also one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom all things were made. This reminds us that Christ is not a creature, but the eternal Son of God, co-creator of the universe, worthy of the same worship as the Father.

Psalm 115 (not 110) speaks about the emptiness of false gods, describing them with striking precision: they have mouths but cannot speak, eyes but cannot see, ears but cannot hear, noses but cannot smell, hands but cannot feel, feet but cannot walk. The psalmist even adds that those who make them and trust in them become like them—spiritually senseless and blind. This is the sad condition of idolatry: it promises much but gives nothing.

However, our God is almighty. He reigns with power and glory. He does not need anyone to carry Him or defend Him. He is sovereign, eternal, and omnipresent. With His word He created the heavens and the earth. With His power He brings down thunder, lifts the mountains, calms the seas, and makes the sun rise over all mankind. He governs history, sustains the universe, and directs the steps of His children with wisdom and love.

Brothers, it does not matter how many gods the human being has invented. Across cultures and centuries people have created idols of wood, stone, metal, gold, and even modern idols such as fame, pleasure, or money. But none of them can compare to the true God. For us, there is only one God and Creator of all things. We belong to Him, we depend on Him, and we worship Him alone.

Let us remain firm in this truth. Let us not be confused by the philosophies, beliefs, or inventions of men. We serve the living God—the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; the God revealed in Jesus Christ; the God who loves, saves, speaks, and reigns forever. May our hearts always give Him the glory that only He deserves.