Simplicity is a familiar notion with people in our world today. We read articles and join groups about keeping life simple. We like the thought of simplicity in our homes and schedules. But the simplicity of God? That can be a bit more confusing.
Think of it like this: “On account of its absolute perfection, every attribute of God is identical with his essence” (Herman Bavinck, 2004). Therefore, God not only loves, but also He is love. Not only does He show justice; God is justice. Our righteous God is righteousness. While these attributes may be distinct, God is perfectly all of them.
Paul tells us that in the cross, God has proven His attributes are never in conflict. Rather, He is simultaneously gracious towards sinners and righteous in judging His Son on their behalf. He is at the same time “just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus” (v. 26). His simplicity teaches us that He “is love” (1 John 4:8) as well as “the truth” (John 14:6). That is the simplicity of God… and simply wonderful for you and me.