7. The Immutability (Unchanging Nature) of God

The doctrine of the immutability (unchanging nature) of God emphasizes that God remains the same in His essence, nature, character, and purposes throughout eternity. The Bible teaches that God does not change in His essence, moral character, or in His promises. However, some theological perspectives have different views or nuances regarding how this immutability is understood. Below, I will provide scriptures that support and challenge the idea of God’s immutability, as well as a discussion of the views of different Christian denominations.

Scriptures Supporting God’s Immutability

Malachi 3:6 (KJV): “For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.”
- Interpretation: This passage asserts that God does not change, emphasizing His steadfastness in His nature and covenant.
James 1:17 (KJV): “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”
- Interpretation: God is depicted as being constant, with no shadow of change, reflecting His unchanging nature.
Hebrews 13:8 (KJV): “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.”
- Interpretation: The eternal, unchanging nature of Jesus Christ confirms the immutability of God in His incarnate form.
Psalm 102:27 (KJV): “But thou art the same, and thy years shall have no end.”
- Interpretation: God’s immutability is emphasized in this psalm, which contrasts God’s eternal consistency with the temporal nature of creation.
Numbers 23:19 (KJV): “God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?”
- Interpretation: God’s integrity and faithfulness to His promises are affirmed, suggesting no change in His purpose or word.
1 Samuel 15:29 (KJV): “And also the Strength of Israel will not lie nor repent: for he is not a man, that he should repent.”
- Interpretation: This verse highlights that God is not like humans who change, and His purposes remain unaltered.
Isaiah 46:9-10 (KJV): “Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure.”
- Interpretation: God’s eternal sovereignty and unchanging plans are emphasized.
Titus 1:2 (KJV): “In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began.”
- Interpretation: God’s unchanging nature is evident in His promises, which are sure and eternal.

Scriptures Challenging God’s Immutability

Genesis 6:6 (KJV): “And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.”
- Interpretation: This verse seems to suggest that God’s decision-making can change based on human actions, but it can be understood in terms of God’s relational response to sin rather than a change in His immutable nature.
Exodus 32:14 (KJV): “And the LORD repented of the evil which he thought to do unto his people.”
- Interpretation: This appears to show God changing His course of action. However, this can be interpreted as God adjusting His judgment in response to prayer or repentance, without implying a change in His character.
Jonah 3:10 (KJV): “And God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God repented of the evil that he had said that he would do unto them; and he did it not.”
- Interpretation: This could indicate that God adjusts His actions based on human repentance, showing a dynamic interaction with creation.
Jeremiah 18:7-10 (KJV): “At what instant I shall speak concerning a nation, and concerning a kingdom, to pluck up, and to pull down, and to destroy it; If that nation, against whom I have pronounced, turn from their evil, I will repent of the evil that I thought to do unto them.”
- Interpretation: This verse shows God responding to the actions of people, and His decision to change His judgment based on their repentance.
1 Samuel 15:35 (KJV): “And Samuel came no more to see Saul until the day of his death: nevertheless Samuel mourned for Saul: and the LORD repented that he had made Saul king over Israel.”
- Interpretation: The passage suggests a change in God’s mind about Saul’s kingship. It can be understood in a relational or covenantal context.
Amos 7:3 (KJV): “The LORD repented for this: It shall not be, saith the LORD.”
- Interpretation: The Lord expresses regret, which is viewed as a change in His course of action, showing responsiveness to human circumstances.
Psalm 106:45 (KJV): “And he remembered for them his covenant, and repented according to the multitude of his mercies.”
- Interpretation: This is seen as God’s action being conditioned by His mercy, showing dynamic engagement with His people.
Genesis 18:21 (KJV): “I will go down now, and see whether they have done altogether according to the cry of it, which is come unto me; and if not, I will know.”
- Interpretation: This suggests a process of decision-making that involves God’s interaction with the people, as though He is responding to new information.

Denominational Views on the Immutability of God

1. Roman Catholic Church

Position: The Roman Catholic Church affirms the immutability of God in His essence and moral character. While God is unchanging in nature, His interactions with creation can change, reflecting His responsive and dynamic relationship with humanity.
- Scriptural Support for Immutability:
  - Malachi 3:6 (KJV): “For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.”
    - Interpretation: God’s immutability is highlighted here; He remains the same and is faithful to His covenant with Israel.
  - James 1:17 (KJV): “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”
    - Interpretation: God is presented as unchanging in His character, with no variability or shadow of turning.
- Arguments Against (Relational Change):
  - Exodus 32:14 (KJV): “And the LORD repented of the evil which he thought to do unto his people.”
    - Interpretation: God changes His mind in response to human repentance. This shows a relational change, but not a change in God’s unchanging nature.
- Summary: The Roman Catholic Church upholds God’s immutability in His essence and promises but allows for changes in how He responds to humanity’s actions, such as repentance.

2. Eastern Orthodox Church

Position: Similar to the Roman Catholic view, the Eastern Orthodox Church teaches that God is immutable in essence and moral character. However, His dealings with creation can appear to change based on historical events or human actions, especially in salvation history.
- Scriptural Support for Immutability:
  - Psalm 102:27 (KJV): “But thou art the same, and thy years shall have no end.”
    - Interpretation: This supports the view that God remains the same throughout time and eternity.
  - Hebrews 13:8 (KJV): “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.”
    - Interpretation: This emphasizes Christ’s eternal, unchanging nature, affirming the unchanging nature of God.
- Arguments Against (Relational Change):
  - Genesis 6:6 (KJV): “And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.”
    - Interpretation: This indicates a change in God’s emotional response to humanity’s sin, suggesting relational change, but not a change in essence.
- Summary: The Eastern Orthodox Church agrees with the immutability of God in essence but allows for God’s dynamic interaction with creation, particularly in salvation history.

3. Evangelical Protestants

Position: Evangelicals generally affirm God’s immutability in both His essence and moral character. They emphasize that God does not change in His nature, but He engages dynamically with His creation.
- Scriptural Support for Immutability:
  - Malachi 3:6 (KJV): “For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.”
    - Interpretation: God’s unchanging nature is foundational to His faithfulness and mercy towards His people.
  - James 1:17 (KJV): “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”
    - Interpretation: God is constant, giving good and perfect gifts without change or fluctuation in His nature.
- Arguments Against (Relational Change):
  - Jonah 3:10 (KJV): “And God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God repented of the evil that he had said that he would do unto them; and he did it not.”
    - Interpretation: God’s response to the repentance of Nineveh shows a change in His judgment, though His moral character remains unchanging.
- Summary: Evangelical Protestants affirm God’s unchanging essence but emphasize that His relational actions may appear to change in response to human behavior and repentance.

4. Baptist (Southern Baptist, Independent Baptist, etc.)

Position: Baptists hold strongly to the immutability of God. God is unchanging in His essence, character, and promises. His dealings with humanity, however, can change based on the actions of His people.
- Scriptural Support for Immutability:
  - Numbers 23:19 (KJV): “God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?”
    - Interpretation: God is presented as completely trustworthy and faithful, unchanging in His promises.
  - Psalm 102:27 (KJV): “But thou art the same, and thy years shall have no end.”
    - Interpretation: God’s eternal nature and faithfulness are central to this verse, affirming His immutability.
- Arguments Against (Relational Change):
  - Exodus 32:14 (KJV): “And the LORD repented of the evil which he thought to do unto his people.”
    - Interpretation: This can be seen as an instance of God changing His course of action in response to prayer and repentance, which some may view as a relational change.
- Summary: Baptists strongly affirm God’s immutability in His nature and promises but recognize that God may change His actions in response to human repentance or prayer.

5. Methodists (United Methodist, AME, etc.)

Position: Methodists generally agree with the immutability of God but place more emphasis on His relational nature. While God is unchanging in essence, He interacts with creation in a dynamic and responsive way.
- Scriptural Support for Immutability:
  - Hebrews 13:8 (KJV): “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.”
    - Interpretation: The eternal constancy of Christ reflects the unchanging nature of God.
  - Psalm 102:27 (KJV): “But thou art the same, and thy years shall have no end.”
    - Interpretation: God’s constancy is affirmed as eternal and unchanging.
- Arguments Against (Relational Change):
  - Jonah 3:10 (KJV): “And God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way; and God repented of the evil that he had said that he would do unto them; and he did it not.”
    - Interpretation: This suggests God’s response to human repentance involves change in His judgment, highlighting His relational interaction with humanity.
- Summary: Methodists affirm God’s unchanging essence, but they emphasize His dynamic relational engagement with creation, especially in responding to human choices.

6. Lutherans (Missouri Synod, ELCA, etc.)

Position: Lutherans affirm that God is immutable in His essence and character. However, they recognize that God’s actions may change based on His relationship with humanity, particularly in the context of salvation history.
- Scriptural Support for Immutability:
  - Hebrews 13:8 (KJV): “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.”
    - Interpretation: Christ’s unchanging nature affirms the immutability of God.
  - Malachi 3:6 (KJV): “For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.”
    - Interpretation: This emphasizes God’s consistent faithfulness and unchanging nature.
- Arguments Against (Relational Change):
  - 1 Samuel 15:35 (KJV): “And Samuel came no more to see Saul until the day of his death: nevertheless Samuel mourned for Saul: and the LORD repented that he had made Saul king over Israel.”
    - Interpretation: God’s regret over Saul’s kingship appears to indicate a change in His course of action, though His nature remains unchanged.
- Summary: Lutherans hold that while God’s nature and character are immutable, His actions may appear to change as He interacts with humanity in different contexts, especially in His judgment.

7. Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI, etc.)

Position: Pentecostals generally believe in God’s immutability but emphasize the dynamic work of the Holy Spirit. God’s unchanging essence is clear, but His work in the world is seen as active and responsive.
- Scriptural Support for Immutability:
  - James 1:17 (KJV): “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.”
    - Interpretation: God’s constancy is central to this verse.
  - Psalm 102:27 (KJV): “But thou art the same, and thy years shall have no end.”
    - Interpretation: Emphasizes God’s eternal and unchanging nature.
- Arguments Against (Relational Change):
  - Genesis 6:6 (KJV): “And it repented the LORD that he had made man on the earth, and it grieved him at his heart.”
    - Interpretation: This suggests an emotional response to human sin, which some may see as a change in God’s relational disposition.
- Summary: Pentecostals believe in the immutability of God’s essence but focus on the dynamic nature of His work in the world, particularly through the Holy Spirit.

8. Jehovah’s Witnesses

Position: Jehovah’s Witnesses affirm that God is immutable in His nature and character, but they believe that God’s actions can change based on His relationship with humanity, especially in light of His Kingdom’s progress.
- Scriptural Support for Immutability:
  - Malachi 3:6 (KJV): “For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.”
    - Interpretation: God’s constancy is affirmed, showing that He does not change in His nature or essence.
  - Hebrews 13:8 (KJV): “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.”
    - Interpretation: This verse is used to affirm Christ’s eternal and unchanging nature.
- Arguments Against (Relational Change):
  - Jeremiah 18:7-10 (KJV): “At what instant I shall speak concerning a nation, and concerning a kingdom, to pluck up, and to pull down, and to destroy it; If that nation, against whom I have pronounced, turn from their evil, I will repent of the evil that I thought to do unto them.”
    - Interpretation: This suggests that God’s plans can change in response to human actions, reflecting a dynamic aspect of God’s relationship with creation.
- Summary: Jehovah’s Witnesses hold to God’s immutability in essence but believe that His actions may change based on human behavior, especially concerning the Kingdom of God.

9. Mormonism (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints – LDS)

Position: Mormons believe that God, as an eternal and exalted being, has undergone a process of change. They affirm that God is not immutable in the same way as traditional Christian views of God. In Mormon theology, God was once a man and became God through a process, which suggests that God can progress or change.
- Scriptural Support for Immutability (as interpreted in Mormonism):
  - Hebrews 13:8 (KJV): “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.”
    - Interpretation: While Mormons believe in the immutability of Christ, this does not mean that God’s nature is unchanging in the sense that He was always God.
- Arguments Against (Relational and Ontological Change):
  - Doctrine and Covenants 130:22: “The Father has a body of flesh and bones as tangible as man’s; the Son also; but the Holy Ghost has not a body of flesh and bones, but is a personage of Spirit.”
    - Interpretation: This passage supports the view that God (the Father) has a tangible, physical form and that His nature has changed over time. This theological stance contrasts with traditional Christian immutability.
- Summary: Mormons do not hold to the immutability of God in the traditional Christian sense. They believe God has changed and progressed over time and can continue to do so, especially in terms of His physical and spiritual nature.

10. Seventh-day Adventists

Position: Seventh-day Adventists affirm the immutability of God in essence, character, and moral law. They believe that God’s nature is unchanging, but His interactions with creation, especially through His salvific work, may seem dynamic. They view the immutability of God as crucial to understanding His faithfulness, particularly in the context of the Sabbath and the everlasting covenant.
- Scriptural Support for Immutability:
  - Malachi 3:6 (KJV): “For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.”
    - Interpretation: The immutability of God’s character is emphasized, showing that He is faithful and unchanging in His promises.
  - Hebrews 13:8 (KJV): “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.”
    - Interpretation: Christ’s eternal constancy reinforces the belief in God’s unchanging nature.
- Arguments Against (Relational Change):
  - Exodus 32:14 (KJV): “And the LORD repented of the evil which he thought to do unto his people.”
    - Interpretation: Although the Seventh-day Adventists affirm God’s unchanging nature, this passage shows God’s response to human repentance, which may seem to suggest a change in His actions.
- Summary: Seventh-day Adventists emphasize God’s immutability in His character and promises, but they allow for a dynamic relationship with humanity that leads to changes in His dealings with creation.

Conclusion

Roman Catholic Church & Eastern Orthodox Church: Both view God as immutable in essence but allow for relational changes in God’s interaction with humanity. The emphasis is on God’s dynamic relationship with His creation, especially in salvation history.
Evangelicals & Protestants: They affirm God’s immutability in essence and character, recognizing that His actions may change in response to human behavior, particularly repentance and prayer.
Baptists & Lutherans: These traditions emphasize the immutability of God in His nature and promises, while acknowledging changes in His relational actions, particularly in judgment or mercy.
Methodists: They emphasize God’s unchanging essence while recognizing His dynamic, relational nature, especially in His dealings with humanity through history.
Pentecostals: These believers stress the immutability of God’s essence but focus on His dynamic work through the Holy Spirit and His responsiveness to human actions.
Jehovah’s Witnesses: They uphold God’s immutability in essence but believe His actions can change, especially in light of His Kingdom’s progress.
Mormonism (LDS): Mormons hold to a different view altogether, suggesting that God has undergone change and progression, and therefore does not hold to the traditional Christian belief in immutability.
Seventh-day Adventists: They affirm God’s immutability in essence but highlight that His relational actions, especially in response to human choices, can change, especially in regard to His judgment and salvation plan.

Each denomination provides a unique perspective on God’s immutability, but most affirm that God’s essence remains unchanged while allowing for relational dynamic interactions with humanity.

Summary Table for Denominational Views on Immutability

Denomination	View on Immutability	Scripture Basis (For)	Argument Against	Scripture Basis (Against)
Roman Catholic Church	God is immutable in essence but can change His relational actions.	Malachi 3:6 “For I am the LORD, I change not…”	God’s actions can change based on repentance and prayer.	Exodus 32:14 “And the LORD repented of the evil…”
Eastern Orthodox Church	God is immutable in essence but dynamic in His relational dealings with humanity.	Psalm 102:27 “But thou art the same…”	God’s relational responses may change in history.	Genesis 6:6 “And it repented the LORD…”
Evangelical Protestants	God is immutable in essence and promises, but His actions may change in response to human repentance.	Malachi 3:6 “For I am the LORD, I change not…”	God can respond differently to human repentance or actions.	Jonah 3:10 “And God repented of the evil…”
Baptist (Southern, Independent)	God is immutable in essence and moral character, but His actions can change based on human actions.	Numbers 23:19 “God is not a man, that he should lie…”	God’s actions can change in response to human repentance.	Exodus 32:14 “And the LORD repented…”
Methodist (United, AME)	God is immutable in essence but dynamic in His relational engagement with humanity.	Hebrews 13:8 “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever.”	God may change His relational responses based on human behavior.	Jonah 3:10 “And God saw their works, and he repented…”
Lutheran (Missouri Synod, ELCA)	God is immutable in essence, but His actions may appear to change in response to human behavior.	Hebrews 13:8 “Jesus Christ the same yesterday…”	God’s actions may change but not His essence.	1 Samuel 15:35 “And the LORD repented that he had made Saul king…”
Pentecostal (Assemblies of God, UPCI)	God is immutable in essence but works dynamically through the Holy Spirit, responding to human actions.	James 1:17 “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above…”	God’s relational responses change in interaction with human needs.	Genesis 6:6 “And it repented the LORD…”
Jehovah’s Witnesses	God is immutable in essence but may change His actions based on His relationship with humanity.	Malachi 3:6 “For I am the LORD, I change not…”	God’s actions can change based on human behavior or prayer.	Jeremiah 18:7-10 “If that nation, against whom I have pronounced, turn from their evil…”
Mormonism (LDS)	God has undergone change and progression; He is not immutable in the traditional sense.	Hebrews 13:8 “Jesus Christ the same yesterday…”	God’s nature has changed and progressed over time.	Doctrine and Covenants 130:22 “The Father has a body of flesh and bones…”
Seventh-day Adventists	God is immutable in essence and character but His actions may change in response to human actions.	Malachi 3:6 “For I am the LORD, I change not…”	God’s actions may change based on human repentance and prayer.	Exodus 32:14 “And the LORD repented…”

Final Thoughts

This table summarizes the different theological views on God’s immutability as understood by various Christian denominations. While most denominations affirm God’s immutability in His essence and promises, many recognize that God’s actions or relational responses may change based on human repentance, prayer, or behavior. However, the immutability of God is a core tenet that remains central in the faith and practice of most Christian traditions, though how they understand its implications can vary widely.

Each denomination brings a unique perspective, emphasizing different aspects of God’s nature and His dynamic interaction with creation. As we explore the scriptures, it is clear that while God may respond differently to human actions, His essence and character remain constant, making Him a faithful, unchanging, and reliable foundation for believers across all traditions.