I’ve been diving deep into systematic theology lately as part of my cohort at Kindred Community Church. Right now, we’re in the section called Theology Proper, studying the doctrine of God the Father — who He is, how we know Him, and what we can confidently say about His nature.
In this module, I’ve been studying the different “natural proofs” for the existence of God — arguments based on reason or observation rather than divine revelation. One of the most well-known is the Teleological Argument, or the argument from design.
For years, I’ve personally used the Teleological Argument in evangelism. I’d point to the complexity of the human body, the fine-tuning of the universe, or the beauty of nature as evidence that a Creator — an intelligent Designer — must exist.
And I still believe that’s true. Design implies a Designer.
But recently I’ve been challenged by this important follow-up question:
“But how do you know your God — the God of the Bible — is that Designer?”
And that question is exactly where the Teleological Argument falls short if it’s used alone.
What Is the Teleological Argument?
The Teleological Argument says that the observable design, order, and purpose in the universe point to an intelligent Creator. The word teleological comes from the Greek word telos, meaning end, goal, or purpose.
The logic goes like this:
- The universe displays intelligent design.
- Design requires a Designer.
- Therefore, an intelligent Designer must exist.
It’s a powerful argument — so powerful, in fact, that non-Christian thinkers like Plato, Aristotle, and even Immanuel Kant accepted some version of it. But that’s also the problem.
Just because someone accepts the idea of a “designer” doesn’t mean they know who that designer is.
The Limit of General Revelation
Scripture itself teaches that nature does reveal God — to a point.
“For what can be known about God is plain to them, because God has shown it to them. For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived… in the things that have been made.”
— Romans 1:19–20
God has revealed Himself in creation, but only enough to leave us “without excuse” — not enough to lead us to salvation or the full knowledge of who He truly is.
That’s why theologians distinguish between:
- General Revelation (God revealed in nature, conscience, and history)
- Special Revelation (God revealed in Scripture and the person of Christ)
So, How Do I Know the Designer Is the God of the Bible?
Here’s how I now answer that honest and necessary follow-up question:
1. Creation shows us that a Designer exists.
When we observe nature — from DNA to galaxies — it clearly points to a Creator who is powerful, intelligent, and purposeful.
But that’s not enough.
2. We need more than creation to know who He is.
The same God who designed the universe didn’t leave us guessing. He spoke. He revealed Himself, first through the prophets, and ultimately through Jesus Christ.
“Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son…”
— Hebrews 1:1–2
“Whoever has seen Me has seen the Father.”
— John 14:9
3. Jesus Christ is the signature on the canvas.
If someone paints a masterpiece, the only way to truly know who created it is if they sign it — or show up and say, “I made that.”
The resurrection of Jesus is that moment. It’s the public, historical confirmation that the God of the Bible is not just a vague “designer,” but the one true, living God — the Creator, Redeemer, and Ruler of all things.
Don’t Stop at the Surface
So yes — use the Teleological Argument. It’s a great starting point for conversations about God’s existence. But don’t stop there.
Design points to a Designer. But only Scripture tells you who He is.
And once you see Him through the lens of Scripture, the beauty and complexity of creation become even more breathtaking — because now, it’s not just a Designer behind it all. It’s your heavenly Father.
