The Thrice-Holy One

The Thrice-Holy One

Update: 2025-05-07
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This podcast episode delves into the profound difference between God and humanity, highlighting God's infinite nature and holiness. It uses the analogy of a Roman triumph and the concept of "Homo es" to illustrate God's transcendence. The episode explores the biblical understanding of holiness as separation from sin, using Habakkuk's words about God's pure eyes and a comparison of shades of green to depict the intense, unblemished nature of God's holiness. The speaker explains how this intense holiness can be overwhelming and even disintegrating, referencing the experience of encountering God's presence. The Creator-Creature distinction is emphasized, highlighting humanity's dependence on God and the need for humility and reverence.

Outlines

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God's Holiness and the Creator-Creature Distinction

This episode explores the immense difference between God and humanity, emphasizing God's infinite holiness and transcendence. It uses analogies and biblical references (like Habakkuk's words) to illustrate the overwhelming and awe-inspiring nature of encountering God's presence, contrasting God's perfect purity with human imperfection.

Keywords

Creator-Creature Distinction


The theological concept highlighting the infinite difference between God (the Creator) and humanity (the creature), emphasizing God's transcendence and our dependence.

Holiness of God


A core attribute of God signifying His absolute purity, separation from sin, and infinite perfection; often described as overwhelming and awe-inspiring.

Transcendence


God's existence beyond human comprehension and limitations, emphasizing His infinite nature and power.

Habakkuk's words


Reference to Habakkuk 1:13, emphasizing God's inability to tolerate iniquity and His pure holiness.

God's Transcendent Nature


God's existence beyond human understanding and limitations.

Biblical Concept of Holiness


Holiness as separation from sin and absolute purity.

Q&A

  • What is the "Creator-Creature Distinction," and why is it important?

    The Creator-Creature Distinction emphasizes the infinite difference between God, the creator, and humanity, His creation. Understanding this fosters humility and reverence.

  • How does the podcast explain the holiness of God?

    The podcast describes God's holiness as intense, unblemished purity, a separation from sin, and an overwhelming presence.

  • What is the significance of encountering God's presence?

    Encountering God's presence highlights the overwhelming nature of His holiness, humbling even holy individuals.

Show Notes

What do we mean when we talk about the holiness of God? Today, Sinclair Ferguson reflects on the characteristic of God that may be most difficult for us to understand and yet is so essential to knowing who He is.

Read the transcript: https://ligonier.org/podcasts/things-unseen-with-sinclair-ferguson/the-thrice-holy-one/

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Explore all of our podcasts: https://www.ligonier.org/podcasts

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The Thrice-Holy One

The Thrice-Holy One