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The principle of causality is a foundational truth upon which much of philosophy, theology, and science is built. Stated simply, the principle asserts that every effect must have a cause. This self-evident principle is deeply tied to the biblical understanding of Jehovah as the Creator and Sustainer of all things. The Scriptures consistently affirm that God is the ultimate source of all existence, and this understanding of causality aligns perfectly with the Bible’s teaching about the nature of God and creation. This article will explore the principle of causality from a biblical perspective, its implications for understanding the universe, and how it points unmistakably to the existence of a Creator.

The Biblical Basis for the Principle of Causality

The Bible assumes and teaches the principle of causality throughout its narrative. One of the clearest expressions of this principle is found in Genesis 1:1: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” This verse establishes that the universe, as an effect, has a cause: Jehovah, the Creator. The Hebrew word for “created” (bara’) is used exclusively in Scripture for divine activity, emphasizing that only God has the power to bring something into existence from nothing (ex nihilo). This act of creation underscores the dependence of all things on God as the ultimate cause.

In the New Testament, Paul reinforces this truth in Romans 1:20: “For since the creation of the world, his invisible attributes, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are without excuse.” This verse highlights the observable evidence of causality in creation. The natural world testifies to God’s power and divine nature, as everything that exists points back to a Creator.

The Necessity of a First Cause

The principle of causality demands a First Cause, an uncaused being that explains the existence of all other contingent beings. Contingent beings are those that depend on something outside of themselves for their existence. For example, the universe is a contingent reality—it had a beginning and could have conceivably not existed. As such, it requires a cause that is not itself contingent.

Jehovah is revealed in Scripture as this First Cause, the one who is self-existent and independent of all else. In Exodus 3:14, God declares to Moses, “I am who I am.” This statement reflects God’s eternal, self-existent nature. The Hebrew phrase ’ehyeh asher ’ehyeh emphasizes that Jehovah’s existence is not derived from anything else but is intrinsic to His being. Unlike created things, which are caused and dependent, Jehovah is uncaused and self-sufficient.

The apostle Paul affirms this truth in Acts 17:24-25: “The God who made the world and everything in it, since he is Lord of heaven and earth, does not dwell in temples made by hands; nor is he served by human hands, as though he needed anything, since he himself gives to all people life and breath and all things.” This passage underscores that Jehovah is the source of all life and existence, while He Himself is uncaused and independent.

The Universe as a Contingent Reality

The principle of causality also teaches that everything that begins to exist must have a cause. This is evident in the nature of the universe itself. The scientific understanding that the universe had a beginning aligns with the biblical declaration of creation. The “Big Bang” theory, for example, posits that the universe came into existence from a singular point in time, but it cannot explain the cause of that beginning. The Bible provides the answer: Jehovah, the eternal Creator, brought the universe into being.

Psalm 102:25-27 declares, “Of old you founded the earth, and the heavens are the work of your hands. Even they will perish, but you endure; and all of them will wear out like a garment; like clothing you will change them, and they will pass away. But you are the same, and your years will not come to an end.” This passage contrasts the transient nature of the created order with the eternal nature of its Creator. The universe, as a contingent reality, is dependent on God not only for its origin but also for its continued existence.

The writer of Hebrews echoes this in Hebrews 1:3, stating that Jesus Christ, as the radiance of God’s glory, “upholds all things by the word of his power.” This upholding of all things reveals that the universe is not self-sustaining; it is continually dependent on the will and power of its Creator.

Nonbeing Cannot Produce Being

Another critical aspect of the principle of causality is the assertion that nonbeing cannot produce being. This principle is inherently logical and aligns with the biblical teaching that Jehovah alone has the power to create. Job 38:4-7 illustrates this truth vividly when God challenges Job, saying, “Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. Who set its measurements—since you know? Or who stretched the line on it? On what were its bases sunk? Or who laid its cornerstone, when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God shouted for joy?”

This rhetorical question emphasizes that creation is not the result of random chance or spontaneous existence but is the product of intentional, divine causation. The notion that the universe could arise from nothing defies both logic and Scripture. The psalmist declares in Psalm 33:6, “By the word of Jehovah the heavens were made, and by the breath of his mouth all their host.” Creation was an act of divine will and power, not the result of nonbeing producing being.

The Causal Relationship Between God and Humanity

The principle of causality extends beyond the physical universe to the relationship between Jehovah and humanity. God is not only the Creator of all things but also the Sustainer and Redeemer of His people. In Colossians 1:16-17, Paul writes, “For by him all things were created, both in the heavens and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and in him all things hold together.” This passage emphasizes that all creation has its origin in Jehovah and exists for His purpose.

God’s causality is not limited to physical creation but also includes spiritual regeneration. In 2 Corinthians 5:17, Paul states, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.” Just as Jehovah caused the physical universe to come into existence, He also causes spiritual renewal in the lives of those who turn to Him in faith. This transformative work is accomplished through the Spirit-inspired Word of God, which leads individuals to repentance and obedience.

Objections to the Principle of Causality Addressed

Some skeptics argue that the principle of causality does not apply to reality or that it leads to an infinite regress of causes. However, these objections misunderstand the nature of causality and the necessity of a First Cause. The principle does not assert that everything has a cause but that everything that begins to exist has a cause. Jehovah, as the eternal, uncaused Creator, stands outside the chain of contingent causes.

Isaiah 40:28 affirms, “Do you not know? Have you not heard? The everlasting God, Jehovah, the Creator of the ends of the earth, does not become weary or tired. His understanding is inscrutable.” This verse reminds us that God’s existence and power are beyond human comprehension. Attempts to confine Jehovah to the limitations of created reality fail to recognize His unique nature as the self-existent One.

Conclusion: Causality and Faith in Jehovah

The principle of causality, when properly understood, points unmistakably to the existence of Jehovah as the Creator and Sustainer of all things. The Bible consistently affirms this truth, revealing that God’s power and wisdom are evident in the created order. By recognizing Jehovah as the First Cause, believers can find assurance in His sovereignty and purpose. This understanding should inspire awe, worship, and a commitment to live in obedience to His will.

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About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).