God - Trinity

Introduction

Illustration: St. Augustine once said, "If you can comprehend it, it is not God." The Trinity is one of the deepest mysteries of the Christian faith. While difficult to fully grasp, it is essential to our understanding of God.

Opening Scripture: Matthew 28:19 — "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."

The Biblical Foundation of the Trinity

A. God is One (Monotheism)

Deuteronomy 6:4 — "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one."

James 2:19 — "You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder!"

Quote: A.W. Tozer wrote, "Nothing twists and deforms the soul more than a low or unworthy conception of God."

B. God is Three in Persons

The Father is God (John 6:27, 1 Corinthians 8:6)

The Son is God (John 1:1, Colossians 2:9)

The Holy Spirit is God (Acts 5:3-4, 2 Corinthians 3:17)

Quote: Charles Spurgeon said, "To deny the Trinity, you must overthrow the very foundation of the gospel."

C. The Trinity in Action

Creation: Genesis 1:1-2, John 1:1-3

Jesus’ Baptism: Matthew 3:16-17

Salvation: Ephesians 1:3-14 (Father plans, Son accomplishes, Spirit applies)

Quote: John Wesley stated, "Bring me a worm that can comprehend a man, and then I will show you a man who can comprehend the triune God!"

The Importance of the Trinity

The Trinity Defines God's Nature

Without the Trinity, we would misunderstand God's eternal nature and love (1 John 4:8).

The Trinity and Our Salvation

The Father sends the Son (John 3:16).

The Son redeems (Ephesians 1:7).

The Spirit regenerates and seals believers (Titus 3:5, Ephesians 1:13).

The Trinity and Christian Unity

John 17:21 — Jesus prays that believers may be one as He and the Father are one.

Augustine wrote, "In the Trinity, there is a lover, a beloved, and the spirit of love."

Application and Discussion

Discussion Questions:

Why is it important that God is one in essence but three in persons?

How does the Trinity shape the way we worship and pray?

How can we better explain the Trinity to others?

Closing Thought:

While the Trinity is beyond full human comprehension, it is the foundation of Christian faith. As we embrace this mystery, we grow in our understanding and love for God.

Closing Prayer:

Thank God for revealing Himself as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, and ask for a deeper understanding of His nature.