The term “Almighty,” which occurs twice in the Creed, represents two Greek words, the one denoting absolute dominion, the other infinite power in operation.  When we say that God the Father is Almighty, we affirm that He is possessed of entire freedom of action, and that His power is unlimited.  He cannot, indeed, act in opposition to His own nature.  In executing His eternal decrees none can stay His hand from working, but He can do nothing that would derogate from His eternal power and Godhead.  Such inability has its origin not in any limitation of power, or restriction imposed from without, but in Himself.  He knows all things and so cannot be tempted of evil.  He can do whatever He wills, but His will cannot contradict His character.

The statement that God is Almighty implies that all beings are governed and controlled by Him.  All things, save Himself, are His creatures and subject to Him.  Even those things that seem to resist and defy His authority are under His government.  Rebellion serves but to make His omnipotence more apparent, for He causeth the wrath of man to praise Him, and the remainder of wrath He restraineth.[025] He so governs the universe that all things work together, and work together for good to them that love Him.[026]

When we say, “God the Father Almighty,” it is not meant that the Son and the Holy Ghost are not Almighty.  The Father is Almighty because He is God, the Son, who is one with the Father, is God and therefore Almighty, and the Holy Ghost is also God and therefore Almighty.  In the unity of the Godhead the same attributes mark the three Persons.

SECTION 5.—­MAKER OF HEAVEN AND EARTH

Belief in the Almighty power of God is further declared by a confession of faith in Him as the Maker of heaven and earth, and this is but a repetition of the statement contained in the first chapter of Genesis—­the only account of Creation which is fitted to solve all difficulties and to meet all objections.  “Maker” in this article is used in the sense of Creator, implying that heaven and earth were called into existence out of nothing by the word of Divine power; and by “heaven and earth” are meant all creatures, visible and invisible, that have existed or do exist.

Those who object to the Scripture statements regarding Creation have maintained views as to the origin of the material universe differing largely from those held by persons who accept this article of the Creed, and differing also greatly from one another.  Various solutions have been given, among which may be stated:—­