Affirming the Trinity

Daily Dose of God's Word 5-7

Memory Verse: And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:18

Affirming the Trinity

One of the most distinctive and, without a doubt, most challenging teachings of the church is typically called the Trinity.

Explaining the nature of the Trinity has proven to be complex and, for many, confusing. The most widely held explanation, rooted in the 4th and 5th century, focuses on the nature of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit. Three persons and yet one essence or substance. Other explanations focus on their relationship to one another (such as the assertion in the Nicene Creed that the son is "eternally begotten").

Although such explanations are theologically important, it is actually easier to assert the truth of the Trinity than to explain it. Historically seven simple statements might be said to affirm the truth of the Trinity.

1. The Father is God.

2. The Son is God

3. The Spirit is God

4. The Father is not the Son.

5. The Son is not the Spirit.

6. The Spirit is not the Father.

7. There is only one God.

But, whether someone uses the actual term "Trinity" or not, to affirm those seven statements to all be true is to accept the truth of the Trinity.

 For example the beautiful unity and power of the Trinity working together: in creating the Church

The Father was the Designer (Ephesians 3:10-11).

Jesus formed the church in his earthly ministry.

The Spirit was the Perfecter who brought it into reality (John 14:26; 16:7-15).

Lord, I am open to the Holy Spirit. Come to me, 

dwell in me, speak to me so I may become 

more like Christ. Lord, give me the courage to be open.

Lord, I am open to the Holy Spirit. Come, Holy Spirit. Amen.

McKnight, Scot. Open to the Spirit (p. xvii). 

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