The Concept of God in the Early Days

The understanding of God’s nature and relationship with humanity was a central theme in the discussions and formulations of the early community of believers. The concept of God, especially in relation to the Old and New Testaments, was a subject of considerable reflection and debate.

God as Creator

The early community affirmed that the one God was the creator of all things. This belief was vital in distinguishing their understanding from other prevailing philosophies and religious ideas, some of which proposed that the world was created by lesser beings or powers. It was asserted that there was no other God besides Him who made and fashioned humanity. Any suggestion that the creation to which we belong was formed by any other or through any other [than the one God] would lead to inconsistencies. (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)

For if a man be once moved away from the Creator of all things, and if he grant that this creation to which we belong was formed by any other or through any other [than the one God], he must of necessity fall into much inconsistency, and many contradictions of this sort; to which he will [be able to] furnish no explanations which can be regarded as either probable or true. (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)

The Two Testaments

The relationship between the Old and New Testaments was another area of focus. It was taught that there were indeed two testaments among the two peoples; but that it was one and the same God who appointed both for the advantage of those men (for whose sakes the testaments were given) who were to believe in God. (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt) The first testament was regarded as purposeful, designed to guide and prepare people for God, rather than being accidental or without reason.

Purpose of the Old Testament

The Old Testament served to subdue those to whom it was given to the service of God, for their benefit (for God needs no service from men), and exhibited a type of heavenly things, inasmuch as man was not yet able to see the things of God through means of immediate vision; and foreshadowed the images of those things which [now actually] exist. (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt) It also contained a prophecy of things to come, in order that man might learn that God has foreknowledge of all things. (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)

God's Provision for Humanity

Early figures emphasized that God had made provision for all things to turn out for good, in a way consistent with justice. This understanding affected how they viewed material possessions and their responsibility towards others.

Using Material Possessions Righteously

Because He knew that we would make a good use of our substance which we should possess by receiving it from another, He says, "He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat, let him do likewise." (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt) This reflects a belief in the responsible use of resources and sharing with those in need.

Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness, that they, when ye shall be put to flight, may receive you into eternal tabernacles. (Source: Document: 1739749258570-eotm94-anf01.txt)

Conclusion

The concept of God was fundamental to the early community, shaping their understanding of creation, the scriptures, and ethical responsibilities. The emphasis on one God as the creator, the purposeful nature of both testaments, and the call to righteous living reflect key aspects of their beliefs.