The_Trinity

The concept of the Trinity predates the beginning of creation. However, the term “Trinity” was not introduced until after the Bible was written. Because the Trinity is never explicitly defined in the Bible and the concept is not obvious, the matter has confused many Christians over time. This lesson defines the concept of the Trinity and presents a variety of Biblical and practical supports to solidify this concept within the hearts and minds of believers.

I. The Unity of God - God is One

John 10:30; Deuteronomy 6:4; Galatians 3:20

A. What is meant by “one”? One being?

1. Matthew 3:16, 17 - Father speaks from heaven; Jesus is in the water; Holy Spirit descends like a dove

2. Luke 9:33-35 - Father speaks from heaven; Jesus is with Peter, James and John

3. John 14:16, 23, 26 - Father will send the Holy Spirit in Jesus’ name (Notice the “we” in verse 23)

From the examples listed above, “one cannot refer to one being. Let’s diverge for a moment.

II. United States Government Example

How many federal governments are there in the United States? Correct Answer: one

What is the structure of the
U. S. government? --- Executive branch, Legislative branch, and Judicial branch. These three combined to form the U. S. government. It is incorrect to say that the Executive and Legislative branches are the same because they perform different roles. In addition, it is incorrect to say the Judicial branch is the Executive branch for the same reason. Likewise, it is incorrect to say that all three are the same but just manifest themselves in different forms because our one single government consists of three individual entities with specific roles and duties. These different, distinct governmental branches work together on the common cause of furthering (advancing, promoting) the U. S.

It is the same way with God. We have one God. Our one God consists of three individuals (beings): the Father, the Son (Jesus), and the Holy Spirit (Holy Ghost, Comforter). Each of these entities executes specific tasks that distinguish it from the other entities; and all three work together on the common cause of furthering the
kingdom of God. Therein is the oneness of God. There is no strife, miscommunications — no discord whatsoever. These three are unified. These three are one!

III. Scriptural Evidence: 1 John 5:6, 7

IV. Logical Evidence: John 17:20 - 22

What is Jesus asking for in verse 22? If Jesus, the Father, and the Holy Spirit are all the same physical being, then He is praying that we believers all become the same physical being as well ... that all of us individual believers conglomerate ourselves into one physical being. Does Jesus want this for us? According to verse 22, why does Jesus want us to be “one”? (so “... that the world may believe that thou (Father) has sent me (Jesus).” ) Would we becoming one being accomplish this task’? No.

If Jesus, the Father, and the Holy Spirit are all individuals with the same goal and mind-set, then what is Jesus asking for in verse 22? He is asking for all believers to be whole-heartedly unified in furthering the kingdom of God. According to verse 22, why does He want us to become one? (so “... that the world may believe that thou (Father) has sent me (Jesus).”) Would we being whole-heartedly unified and committed to furthering the kingdom of God accomplish this task? Certainly.

Note: The latter understanding of Jesus’ prayer is consistent with scripture.

Matthew 28:18 – 20; Mark 16:15; Luke 24:46, 47; Acts 1:6-8

Can you imagine what a powerful testimony to the world it would be to have all of the Christians on earth not to be concerned about sports, fashion, the stock market. etc. and to be solely concerned about furthering the kingdom of God. Our natural minds probably cannot comprehend such a powerful witness.

V. Old Testament Evidence

1. John 1:1 -4, 14 - Who is the “Word”? Correct Answer: Jesus

2. Genesis 1:26; 3:22 - Who is the ‘us” and “our”? Correct Answer: The Trinity

3. Genesis 11:4 – 7 -- Notice that “... the people is one ...“ (recall oneness scriptures); “... now nothing will be restrained from them which they have imagined to do.” In addition, notice the “us” in verse 7.

These plural pronouns show that the Trinity has been in existence since the beginning of time.

VI. Final Question

If the Trinity exists as explained in this lesson, why is Jesus deemed the “Son of

God” and why does He pray “to God”? (confer: Matthew 8:29: John 10:36; Luke

6:12)

Correct Answer: There are many Hebrew and Greek words translated to be “God” in English. The different words translated to be “God” in the Bible are:

Hebrew Greek

El Joshua 3:10 Theos Jude 25

Elahh Ezra 7:25 Kurios Acts 19:20

Elohiym Jeremiah 42:6

Elowahh Job 29:4

Yehovah Exodus 23:17

Yehovih Zechariah 9:14

Tsuwr Isaiah 44:8

Each word has a slightly different meaning. It is up to the reader of the English translation to use the context to determine if “God” refers to the Father, the Trinity, or someone else. But this in no way lessens the credibility of the Trinity’s existence.

VII. Conclusion

A. God consists of three individuals: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

B. These three are one in goal and in mind-set.

C. This goal is to further the kingdom of God.

D. Evidence of the Trinity can be traced back to the beginning of time.

The Trinity is of fundamental importance to a believer’s understanding of God.