Teaching Outline for Chapter 2: Of God and of the Holy Trinity

Introduction

Context of the Confession

Briefly introduce the 1689 London Baptist Confession as a historic Reformed Baptist document rooted in Scripture.

Explain that Chapter 2 establishes the foundational doctrine of God, which underpins all other theological truths in the confession.

Purpose of the Chapter

To define who God is, what He is like, and how He exists as the Triune God.

To distinguish the Christian view of God from false conceptions.

Scriptural Foundation

Highlight key texts referenced in the chapter (e.g., Deuteronomy 6:4, 1 Corinthians 8:4-6, John 4:24, Exodus 3:14).

Section 1: The Nature and Attributes of God

Text Summary: "The Lord our God is but one only living and true God; whose subsistence is in and of Himself..." Teaching Points:

God’s Unity and Uniqueness

God is one (monotheism) – there is no other God beside Him (Deut. 6:4).

He is the only living and true God, distinct from idols or false gods (Jer. 10:10).

God’s Self-Existence (Aseity)

God exists independently, not relying on anything outside Himself (Ex. 3:14 – "I AM THAT I AM").

Contrast with created beings who depend on God for existence.

God’s Attributes

Infinite: Without limits in being, power, or presence (Ps. 147:5).

Eternal: Without beginning or end (Ps. 90:2).

Immutable: Unchanging in nature or purpose (Mal. 3:6).

Incomprehensible: Beyond full human understanding (Job 11:7-9).

Almighty: All-powerful (Gen. 17:1).

Wise, Holy, Just, Merciful, etc.: A balanced view of God’s perfections (Rom. 11:33, Isa. 6:3, Deut. 32:4, Ex. 34:6-7).

God as Spirit

God is immaterial and invisible (John 4:24), not confined to a physical form.

Application/Discussion Questions

How does God’s self-existence challenge our reliance on created things?

Why is it important to affirm both God’s justice and mercy together?

Section 2: God’s Sovereignty and Works

Text Summary: "To Him is due from angels and men, whatsoever worship, service, or obedience, as creatures they owe unto the Creator..." Teaching Points:

God’s Absolute Sovereignty

God is the Creator and Sustainer of all things (Rev. 4:11).

His will is the ultimate cause of all that happens (Eph. 1:11).

Human Responsibility

All creatures owe God worship and obedience because of His authority as Creator.

This duty is not coercive but flows from His worthiness.

God’s Knowledge and Freedom

God knows all things actual and possible (omniscient).

He is free to act according to His own will, not bound by external forces.

Application/Discussion Questions

How does God’s sovereignty comfort us in uncertain times?

What does it mean practically to owe God worship and obedience?

Section 3: The Holy Trinity

Text Summary: "In this divine and infinite Being there are three subsistences, the Father, the Word or Son, and Holy Spirit..." Teaching Points:

Definition of the Trinity

One God in essence, existing eternally in three distinct persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matt. 28:19, 2 Cor. 13:14).

Each person is fully and completely God, not a part or mode of God.

Unity and Distinction

The three persons share the same divine nature and attributes (John 10:30).

Yet, they are distinct in their relations and roles (e.g., the Father sends the Son, the Son sends the Spirit – John 14:26, 15:26).

Scriptural Evidence

Old Testament hints (Gen. 1:26 – "Let us make man").

New Testament clarity (Matt. 3:16-17 – baptism of Jesus).

Rejection of Heresies

Contrast with Modalism (one God in three modes) and Arianism (denying the Son’s deity).

The confession affirms orthodox Trinitarianism.

Application/Discussion Questions

Why is the Trinity essential to the Christian faith?

How does the Trinity shape our understanding of love and relationship?

Conclusion

Summary of Key Truths

God is one, self-existent, and perfect in all His attributes.

He is sovereign over all creation and worthy of worship.

He exists eternally as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit – one God in three persons.

Practical Implications

This doctrine calls us to worship God alone, trust His sovereign care, and marvel at the mystery of His triune nature.

Closing Reflection

Encourage learners to meditate on a passage like Isaiah 40:28-31, which exalts God’s greatness and care.

Optional Activity

Discuss how this chapter might respond to common objections about God (e.g., “How can God be one and three?” or “Why does evil exist if God is sovereign?”).