The Theology of a Thunderstorm

The weather in Racine has been interesting of late...not necessarily unusual, just interesting. We have experienced warm weather for this time of year, then snow, then rain (actually, a thunderstorm in the middle of the night -- yes, I was awake ), then a warmer day, and now back to normal (temps in the 30's).

As I was awake listening to the thunderstorm a few nights ago I was struck by the oddity of thunder and lightning in November (or, almost December). That made me think about the different human explanations of thunder and lightning in relation to God. Some of them are, "Thunder is God laughing in heaven" or, "Thunder is the sound of angels bowling in heaven." I'm sure there are others even more strange. From there my sleep-deprived mind wandered to thinking about thunder and lightning and the Bible. I wondered what the real relationship between a thunderstorm and God is biblically.

So, if you are interested, here is a brief excursus on the theology of a thunderstorm:

Points of Interest (not exhaustive):

1. Logically, thunderstorms probably began with the flood. Prior to the flood there was no rain (Gen. 2:5-6), thus thunderstorms would have been initiated with the flood. This isn't looking good--thunder and lightning associated with God's judgment on sin???
2. Exodus 9:23, 1 Samuel 2:10, and 1 Samuel 7:10 mention thunder coming from God as part of His judgment upon certain people groups. Strike two...?
3. Job 28:26 states that God creates the path for the lightning. Is this good or bad? At least He is in control of it!
4. Job 40:9 and Psalm 77:18 and Revelation 14:2 compare God's voice with thunder.
5. Job 36:32 says that God's hands are covered with lightning.
6. Daniel 10:6 says that God's face is like the appearance of lightning.

Conclusion: Thunder and lightning were created by our Almighty God and are directed by His power. Biblical history declares that God has used these elements as part of His judgment and discipline. These thoughts naturally instill some fear and awe within human beings. That being so, what better way for God (who is indescribable) to "describe" Himself to us in order that we may seek to know Him in His greatness, worship Him in His glory, and fear Him for His power.