Rooted: A Journey Through the Larger Catechism
Post 2 – How Doth It Appear That There Is a God?
Q2. How doth it appear that there is a God?
A. The very light of nature in man, and the works of God, declare plainly that there is a God; but His Word and Spirit only do sufficiently and effectually reveal Him unto men for their salvation.
Evidence All Around (and Within)
Every leader I’ve met, regardless of background, has asked some version of the same question:
“Is this all there is?”
“Is someone out there?”
The Larger Catechism gives us a profound and layered answer—not only theological, but deeply human.
It doesn’t begin with doctrine. It starts with what you already know deep down:
“The very light of nature in man…”
That sense of wonder. That ache for eternity. The inner compass. The moments when beauty silences you. The tension when something seems unjust. The longing for meaning. All of that is the light of nature—evidence of God wired into your soul.
Even before we read Scripture, the witness of creation speaks.
1. The Light of Nature in Man
This refers to human reason, conscience, and intuition.
“The work of the law is written on their hearts…”
— Romans 2:14–15
“He has set eternity in the human heart…”
— Ecclesiastes 3:11
We instinctively understand moral law. We naturally desire purpose and transcendence. The “light” within us is not saving light—but it is signaling light. It points upward and outward.
Reflection: Even in high-stakes environments like consulting, policy, or leadership, I’ve seen how moral instincts and the hunger for meaning transcend credentials. You can’t silence the soul’s signal.
2. The Works of God
This refers to the natural world—creation itself.
“The heavens declare the glory of God…”
— Psalm 19:1
“His invisible attributes… have been clearly perceived… in the things that have been made.”
— Romans 1:20
From galaxies to DNA, from oceans to the design of the human eye, creation points beyond itself.
Reflection: As someone rooted in data, systems, and evidence, I’m constantly amazed by the precision of creation. Complexity doesn’t deny God—it demands Him.
3. The Word and Spirit: God Revealed for Salvation
Here’s the shift: While nature and conscience point to a God, only the Word and the Spirit point to the God who saves.
“The sacred writings… are able to make you wise for salvation…”
— 2 Timothy 3:15
“These things God has revealed to us through the Spirit…”
— 1 Corinthians 2:10–12
Nature can tell us there is a Creator.
Only Scripture tells us He is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Only the Spirit opens our hearts to believe.
Reflection: I can learn about God by walking in the desert or standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon. But I can only know God through His Son, revealed in His Word, made alive by His Spirit.
So… How Do We Know?
We know because we’re made in His image.
We know because creation sings His song.
We know because the Spirit breathes on the Word and makes dead hearts come alive.
My Prayer
Lord, thank You for not hiding Yourself. Thank You for the beauty around me and the conviction within me. But thank You most of all for Your Word and Your Spirit—for without them, I’d never truly know You. Help me walk with eyes open to Your majesty and a heart grounded in Your truth.
Coming Up Next
Post 3 – What is the Word of God?
We’ll explore how Scripture serves as the only rule of faith and obedience—and why it still speaks with authority today.