Economic Attributes Of God In Theology

The concept of "economic" attributes of God refers to the way God relates to and interacts with His creation, particularly in the context of salvation and redemption. This term is derived from the Greek word "oikonomia," meaning "household management" or "stewardship." In Reformed theology, the economic attributes of God are distinguished from His "essential" or "incommunicable" attributes, which describe His inherent nature and character. As seen in Ephesians 1:10, where it is written, "as a plan for the fullness of time, to unite all things in him, things in heaven and things on earth," God's economic attributes are displayed in His sovereign plan to redeem and restore creation through Jesus Christ.

The economic attributes of God are significant because they reveal His wisdom, goodness, and grace in orchestrating the salvation of humanity. They demonstrate how God's essential attributes, such as His holiness and justice, are expressed in His dealings with humanity. For example, in Romans 3:25-26, it is written, "God put forward as a propitiation by his blood, to be received by faith. This was to show God's righteousness, because in his divine forbearance he had passed over former sins. It was to show his righteousness at the present time, so that he might be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus." This passage highlights God's economic attribute of justice, which is rooted in His essential attribute of holiness.

This truth addresses the heart of God's relationship with humanity, revealing His desire to redeem and restore creation through the person and work of Jesus Christ. It also underscores the importance of understanding God's attributes in a way that is grounded in Scripture and consistent with Reformed theology. By recognizing the economic attributes of God, believers can gain a deeper appreciation for the richness and complexity of God's character, and worship Him with greater reverence and adoration.