Introduction
Have you ever been asked if Trinity is in the Bible? People might tell you that Trinity is a man-made concept and not a biblical truth. However, the truth is that even though Trinity is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible, the concept of Trinity is revealed throughout Scripture. This article will cover the biblical evidence of the Trinity, as well as provide an overall perspective of Scripture as it relates to this key doctrine.
The Trinity Explained
The Christian doctrine of the Trinity is the understanding that the one God of the universe is composed of three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—who are all equal, eternal, and of the same substance. The word “Trinity” does not appear in the Bible, but it is the term used to describe the teaching of the Bible on the nature of the one true God.
Old Testament Evidence of the Trinity
Though it is not stated in so many words, there are several verses in the Old Testament that point to the concept of a Triune God. In Genesis 1:26-27, God is described as saying “Let us make man in our image,” and in Isaiah 48:16, God is referred to as “The Lord, your Redeemer, The Holy One of Israel.” Both of these references point to a plurality in the Godhead.
New Testament Evidence of the Trinity
The New Testament provides even more evidence of the Trinity. Jesus Himself speaks of the three distinct Persons of God (Matthew 28:19), and He frequently refers to God as His Father (John 17:1). In John 14:26, Jesus sends the Holy Spirit to comfort believers, and in Acts 2, the Spirit comes to live in believers. The New Testament also shows Jesus sending the Holy Spirit to empower believers to proclaim the gospel (John 16:13-15).
Trinity in the Apostles’ Creed
The Trinity is further emphasized in the Apostles’ Creed, a statement of faith used by many Christians since the fifth century. The creed states: “I believe in God the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. I believe in Jesus Christ His only Son our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary.” This creed clearly states that God is Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Trinity and Salvation
The doctrine of the Trinity is important to the Christian message of salvation. The Trinity is the origin of salvation. God the Father is the initiator who sent His Son to redeem humanity. Jesus is the mediator who, by His death and resurrection, brings about the forgiveness of sins. The Holy Spirit is the one who brings about the new birth, which is necessary for one to be saved.
Trinity and the Nature of God
The Trinity is also central to the nature of God. While the one true God is a unified essence, evidenced by His oneness in the Old Testament, He is also three co-equal, co-eternal persons, evidenced by the testimonies of Jesus and the New Testament writers. This provides an understanding that God is both a mystery and loving, as He is both unified and relational.
The Father in the Trinity
The Father is the first person of the Trinity. He is the source and creator of the universe and the Father of Jesus, the Son. In the Old Testament, the Father is shown to be the only, sovereign, and loving God. In the New Testament, Jesus reveals that His Father is perfect and not willing that anyone should perish (Matthew 5:48).
The Son in the Trinity
The Son (Jesus Christ) is the second person of the Trinity. Before coming to Earth, Jesus existed alongside His Father in the form of God (John 1:1, 18). He entered into the world out of love for the Father and to save humanity (John 3:16). Jesus is the only mediator between God and humanity and is the only one who can provide salvation to humanity (John 14:6).
The Holy Spirit in the Trinity
The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity. The Holy Spirit works to bring about the work of God in humanity. He guides and comforts believers, gives spiritual gifts, and speaks to God on behalf of believers (John 14:16-17, 26; Acts 2:38, 4:31). The Holy Spirit also serves as the seal of God, guaranteeing the believer’s eternal redemption.
Trinity and Spiritual Life
The Trinity is essential for the spiritual life of a believer. Without Jesus, we cannot be brought into a right relationship with God. Without the Spirit, we cannot access the power of God to live the life He requires. And without the Father, we cannot experience the love and comfort that only He can provide.
Conclusion
The Bible does not explicitly state “the Trinity,” yet there are numerous verses that point to the truth that God is composed of three Persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—who are all equal, eternal, and of the same substance. This understanding of the Trinity is the cornerstone of Christianity and the basis for our relationship with God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
