Jesus and the apostles never espoused the idea of the Trinity

COMMENT:

Jesus and the apostles never espoused the idea of the Trinity

ANSWER:

I am aware that the word ‘Trinity” is not in scripture, but I have become convicted by scripture that alludes to the triune God. God is one, but there is clear evidence of three identities. A great example of this is at the baptism of Jesus Christ. Jesus was in a physical state, being baptized by John. When he came up out of the water, the Holy Spirit descended upon him as like a dove, and then a voice from heaven spoke saying, “Thou art my beloved Son; in thee I am well pleased.” So, from this one event, we see three different instances of God present at one time and in one event.

2 Corinthians 13:14 clearly encapsulates the triune nature of God: “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” Here, we see all three persons mentioned together, emphasizing their unity and equality.

In Genesis 1:26 we have the creation account, where God says, “Let us make man in our image, according to our likeness.” The plural pronouns (“us” and “our”) allude to the plurality of God as Father, Son, and Spirit who were all involved in the act of creation.

How about John 1:1–18. This passage affirms the deity of Christ, describing Him as the Word who was God and was with God from the beginning. It reveals the eternal existence of the Son alongside the Father. Jesus, the Word, became flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:14).

Lastly, there is another clear distinction of the trinity in Matthew 28:18–20. In this passage, known as the Great Commission, Jesus commissions His disciples, saying, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Here, the three persons are mentioned together, emphasizing their divine unity and distinct roles.

In summary, while the Old Testament provides hints, the New Testament more explicitly reveals the Triune God. The Trinity is a mystery beyond complete comprehension, yet our responsibility is to affirm it based on God’s Word, even when our understanding falls short. For me, this is sufficient evidence to believe that God manifests Himself in three identities, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.