The Tri-Unity (Trinity) of God
Definition:
Because it is a mystery we do not expect to reduce it to logic.
To the human mind the Unity of God and the Trinity of God are contradictions. However both are clearly taught throughout the New Testament.
The Trinity of God is a cornerstone of our faith. Every time this doctrine has been compromised the other major Bible tenants have been compromised or abandoned. (Deity of Christ, virgin birth, Atonement, Personality of the Holy Spirit)
The Westminister Confession:
There is but one living and true God. In the unity of the Godhead there are three persons, of one substance, power and eternity -
God the father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. The Father is one, neither begotten nor proceeding. The Son is eternally begotten of the Father. The Holy Spirit eternally proceeding from the Father and the Son.
Scriptural Presentation
1.Old Testament
a. Gen 1:26
b. Is 6:8
c. Theophany = Theos (God) - phaino (to appear)
d. Gen 18:1-19
2.The New Testament
a. Matt 3:16-17 all are present
b. Jon 14:16-26 Jesus, Father, Comforter
c. Matt 28:19 Baptizing in the NAME not names
d. 2Cor 13:14
e. Jude 20:21
Here is the mystery:
There are three separate identities (not individuals), yet there is one God not three. The Trinity is beyond our comprehension, yet definitely the teaching of the Bible.
1 Cor 8:6
6 But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.
