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The Mystery Of The Trinity: One God In Three Persons Series
Contributed by Dean Courtier on Dec 4, 2024 (message contributor)
Summary: The word “Trinity” isn’t found in Scripture, yet the concept of the Trinity is woven throughout the Bible. God reveals Himself as one being in three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
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The Mystery of the Trinity: One God in Three Persons
Theme: The Trinity is one of the most profound truths about God—one God revealed in three distinct Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Key Verse: Matthew 28:19 – “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.”
Introduction
Today, we’re embarking on a journey into one of the most beautiful and mysterious truths of our faith: the Trinity.
The word “Trinity” isn’t found in Scripture, yet the concept of the Trinity is woven throughout the Bible. God reveals Himself as one being in three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This truth may challenge our understanding, but as A.W. Tozer said, “What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us.”
This morning, we will answer three key questions:
What is the Trinity?
How is the Trinity revealed in Scripture?
Why does the Trinity matter to us today?
1. What Is the Trinity?
Let’s start with the foundational truth of God’s nature. Deuteronomy 6:4 declares: “Listen, O Israel! The Lord is our God, the Lord alone.” (NLT)
This verse, known as the Shema, is the cornerstone of Jewish monotheism. The Hebrew word for “Lord” here is Yahweh, signifying God’s covenantal name. Yet, within this oneness, Scripture reveals a complexity—a tri-unity.
Matthew 28:19 provides clarity: “Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.”
Notice that “name” is singular, yet three Persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—are mentioned. This verse affirms both God’s unity and the distinct roles of each Person.
The term “Trinity” is derived from the Latin trinitas, meaning “threefold.” The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are co-equal, co-eternal, and fully God.
Think of water. It exists as liquid, ice, and steam, yet it’s all H2O. While this analogy is imperfect, it helps us grasp the idea of one substance in three forms. Similarly, God is one being revealed in three persons.
R.C. Sproul said, “The doctrine of the Trinity is not a contradiction but a mystery. It is a truth above reason but not against reason.”
We worship a God who is infinitely greater than our understanding. Embrace the wonder and majesty of who He is. Allow this truth to deepen your reverence for God’s greatness.
2. How Is the Trinity Revealed in Scripture?
The Trinity is not just a theological concept; it is revealed in the narrative of Scripture.
A. The Father as Creator and Sovereign
Genesis 1:1 – “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” (NLT)
The Father is the source of all creation. The Hebrew word for God here is Elohim, a plural noun, hinting at the Trinity.
B. The Son as Saviour and Redeemer
John 1:1-3 – “In the beginning the Word already existed. The Word was with God, and the Word was God. He existed in the beginning with God. God created everything through him, and nothing was created except through him.”
Jesus, the Word, is God and was active in creation. He is the eternal Son who became flesh (John 1:14).
C. The Holy Spirit as Sustainer and Comforter
John 14:16-17 – “And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth.”
The Holy Spirit is our Advocate (Parakletos), meaning one who comes alongside to help and guide.
Imagine a relay team. Each runner has a specific role but works in harmony toward the same goal. Similarly, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit work together in perfect unity for our salvation and sanctification.
Acknowledge the distinct roles of the Trinity in your life:
Worship the Father as Creator.
Trust the Son as Saviour.
Depend on the Spirit as Sustainer.
3. Why Does the Trinity Matter to Us Today?
The doctrine of the Trinity isn’t just abstract theology—it impacts our lives profoundly.
A. The Trinity Defines Our Salvation
Ephesians 1:3-14 shows the Trinity’s work in salvation:
The Father chose us (v. 4).
The Son redeemed us through His blood (v. 7).
The Spirit guarantees our inheritance (v. 13).
B. The Trinity Shapes Our Relationships
1 John 4:7-8 – “Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love.”
The Trinity is a community of love. As God’s people, we are called to reflect His love in our relationships.
C. The Trinity Empowers Our Mission
Acts 1:8 – “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”