Module 5: God's Communicable Attributes (Part 1)

Introduction

When we speak of God's communicable attributes, we mean those aspects of His character that He, in some measure, shares with humanity. Unlike His incommunicable attributes--such as omnipresence or immutability--these attributes are qualities we can reflect because we are made in God's image (Genesis 1:26–27). The more we know God, the more we are called to imitate these traits in our relationships, decisions, and daily life (Ephesians 5:1–2).

This Module focuses on three of God's communicable attributes: Holiness, Love, and Justice & Righteousness. Each section below contains an explanation, a short everyday example, and practical applications you can use personally or in a group setting.

1. God is Holy

Holiness is central to God’s nature. The word “holy” means set apart—separate from all that is common, impure, or sinful. In Isaiah 6:3 the seraphim declare, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty,” a triple refrain emphasizing God’s absolute uniqueness and purity.

God’s holiness is both majestic separation (He is unlike anyone or anything else) and moral perfection (He is completely pure and without flaw). Because God is holy, He cannot tolerate sin (Habakkuk 1:13). This is why believers are commanded, “Be holy, because I am holy” (1 Peter 1:15–16).

Example:

Imagine a crystal-clear mountain spring compared to a muddy puddle. Both are water, but one is pure and life-giving while the other is polluted. God’s holiness is that crystal clarity—absolute purity.

Applications:

• Pursue moral integrity in private and public life.
• Guard your heart and mind from influences that normalize compromise.
• Approach worship with reverence and awe, acknowledging God’s perfection.

2. God is Love

Love is not merely something God does; it is who He is (1 John 4:8). God’s love is self-giving—it seeks the good of others, even at great cost to Himself. John 3:16 summarizes this perfectly: God gave His one and only Son for the world.

God’s love is unconditional (not based on our merit), sacrificial (shown supremely in the cross), and steadfast (unchanging even when we fail).

Example:

Consider a parent who risks everything to rescue a child in danger. This instinctive, protective sacrifice points to God’s self-giving love—only God’s love goes further, loving even when we are undeserving.

Applications:

• Love others sacrificially, prioritizing their good over convenience.
• Offer forgiveness freely, remembering the cross.
• Intentionally serve someone who cannot repay you.

3. God is Just and Righteous

Justice and righteousness are closely linked. Justice means God always acts in perfect fairness, giving each person what is due. Righteousness is God’s unchanging moral standard—His actions always align with that standard. Deuteronomy 32:4 and Psalm 97:2 teach us that justice and righteousness form the foundation of God’s rule.

God’s justice means He cannot simply overlook sin. Yet through the cross, God’s righteousness and justice find resolution: Christ bore the penalty so God could remain just while justifying those who trust in Jesus (Romans 3:26).

Example:

Think of a judge who must uphold the law impartially. If the judge ignored crimes when convenient, justice would fail. God’s perfect justice means wrongs will be addressed, and thanks to Christ, God provides a way for mercy within justice.

Applications:

• Live with integrity—let your character match your convictions.
• Act to oppose injustice in your community and workplace.
• Rest in God’s promise that He will ultimately make all things right.

Conclusion

God’s holiness, love, and justice are not abstract doctrines to store away; they are realities meant to shape our living. As image-bearers, we are invited to grow in these attributes and reflect Christ to the world (2 Corinthians 3:18). Pursuing holiness, loving sacrificially, and seeking justice are the daily outworkings of God’s Spirit in us.

Suggested Memory Verses:

• Isaiah 6:3 — "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty."
• 1 Peter 1:15–16 — "Be holy, because I am holy."
• 1 John 4:8–10 — "God is love... He sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice."
• John 3:16 — "For God so loved the world..."
• Deuteronomy 32:4 — "All His ways are justice..."

Reflection Questions:

1. What habit can you change this week to pursue holiness more intentionally?
2. Who is someone you can show sacrificial love to in the next seven days?
3. What is one justice issue in your community you could learn about and act on?

Module 5 Quiz

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1. Which of the following best describes God’s communicable attributes?

• A) Qualities only God can have, like omnipresence
• B) Qualities God shares with humanity in some measure
• C) Qualities God sometimes forgets
• D) Qualities that change over time

2. The word holy means:

• A) Set apart and morally pure
• B) Always joyful
• C) Full of love only
• D) Spiritually emotional

3. Which verse says, “Be holy, because I am holy”?

• A) Isaiah 6:3
• B) John 3:16
• C) 1 Peter 1:16.
• D) Romans 3:26

4. God’s love is best described as:

• A) Conditional, based on obedience
• B) Strict and impersonal<
• C) Self-giving, unconditional, and steadfast
• D) Only for perfect people

5. “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of His throne” is found in:

• A) Psalm 97:2
• B) Deuteronomy 32:4
• C) Romans 5:8
• D) 1 John 4:8

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