MOST HIGH: GOD THE FATHER IN THE BIBLE
Why is God the Father Called the Most High?
God the Father is often called the “Most High” in the Bible, a title that emphasizes His supreme authority, power, and sovereignty over all creation. This designation underscores the belief in God’s unparalleled greatness and His position above all other beings and deities. The title “Most High” is derived from the Hebrew term “El Elyon,” which means the most exalted or supreme God. This term is used to highlight God’s absolute perfections and His sovereign dominion over all creatures. The concept of height conveys superiority in power, strength, and authority, making “Most High” a fitting title for the Creator of heaven and earth. It signifies that there is no god, idol, or created being that should be worshiped or exalted above Yahweh, as He is superior in every way.
Biblical References to God as the Most High
The title “Most High” is used extensively throughout the Bible, both in the Old and New Testaments. Here are some key references from the Catholic Bible:
1. Genesis 14:18-20: “And Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine; he was priest of God Most High. And he blessed him and said, ‘Blessed be Abram by God Most High, maker of heaven and earth; and blessed be God Most High, who has delivered your enemies into your hand!’ And Abram gave him a tenth of everything.” Melchizedek, king of Salem, is described as a priest of God Most High. He blesses Abram and attributes Abram’s victory to God Most High.
2. Psalm 7:17: “I will give to the Lord the thanks due to his righteousness, and I will sing praise to the name of the Lord, the Most High.” The psalmist praises God for His righteousness and acknowledges Him as the Most High.
3. Psalm 91:1-2: “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High, who abides in the shadow of the Almighty, will say to the Lord, ‘My refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust.'” This psalm speaks of the protection and refuge found in the Most High.
4. Daniel 4:34: “At the end of the days I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted my eyes to heaven, and my reason returned to me, and I blessed the Most High, and praised and honored him who lives forever; for his dominion is an everlasting dominion, and his kingdom endures from generation to generation.” King Nebuchadnezzar acknowledges the sovereignty of the Most High after his period of madness.
Usage of Jesus as the Son of the Most High
In the New Testament, Jesus is frequently referred to as the Son of the Most High, underscoring His divine nature and unique relationship with God the Father. Here are some key references:
1. Luke 1:32: “He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High; and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David.” The angel Gabriel tells Mary that her son Jesus will be called the Son of the Most High.
2. Luke 1:35: “The angel answered, ‘The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God.'” Gabriel explains to Mary that the Holy Spirit will come upon her, and the power of the Most High will overshadow her.
3. Mark 5:7: “And crying out with a loud voice, he said, ‘What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I adjure you by God, do not torment me.'” A demon recognizes Jesus as the Son of the Most High God.
4. Luke 8:28: “When he saw Jesus, he cried out and fell down before him and said with a loud voice, ‘What have you to do with me, Jesus, Son of the Most High God? I beg you, do not torment me.'” Another instance where a demon acknowledges Jesus as the Son of the Most High.
REFLECTION
Reflecting on God as the Most High invites us to recognize His supreme authority in our lives and the world. It calls us to trust in His providence and seek refuge in His power, especially in times of uncertainty and difficulty. Acknowledging God as the Most High also reminds us of His ultimate plan for our salvation, fulfilled through Jesus Christ, the Son of the Most High.
In our daily lives, we often face challenges and uncertainties. Remembering God as the Most High can bring comfort and reassurance. Just as God delivered Abram’s enemies into his hand, He is capable of guiding and protecting us in our struggles.
As Christians, recognizing Jesus as the Son of the Most High calls us to follow His teachings and example. Jesus’ life on earth was a testament to His divine mission and His intimate relationship with the Father. By emulating His love, humility, and obedience, we honor the Most High and draw closer to Him. By embracing the sovereignty of the Most High and the teachings of His Son, we find purpose and direction, knowing that we are part of His divine plan.