Bible Daily

Understanding the Trinity: Jesus, God, and Their Unity

The question of whether Jesus is God often stirs confusion among believers. The concept of the Holy Trinity, which includes God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit, provides a framework for understanding this relationship. The Trinity is not about three separate gods but one God in three distinct persons, co-existing in perfect harmony.

To grasp this unity, one can turn to Genesis 1:26 where God says, "Let us make mankind in our image." The plural "us" and "our" suggest a collective divine being, yet they are one in essence.

The Trinity Knot

The Celtic trinity knot, or triquetra, serves as a visual aid. It features three interconnected ovals, symbolizing the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, all part of one continuous line representing the eternal nature of God. This knot illustrates how the three are distinct yet inseparable.

Jesus's Divine Nature

Jesus himself made several statements that affirm His divinity:

  1. Before Abraham was, I am - Jesus's use of "I am" echoes God's name revealed to Moses, asserting His eternal existence and divine identity.

  2. I and the Father are one - This declaration emphasizes the unity in essence between Jesus and God the Father, not merely in purpose but in nature.

  3. Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father - Jesus explains that He is the visible image of the invisible God, showcasing the intimate connection between the Son and the Father.

Biblical Descriptions of God

The Bible portrays God in various ways:

  • Father - Jesus often referred to God as "Father," yet God transcends gender, as seen in Isaiah where God's love is likened to a mother's comfort.

  • Creator and Protector - God is depicted as the creator and a loving protector, sending His Son for humanity's salvation.

  • Names of God - Scriptures provide names like El Shaddai (God Almighty), El Elyon (God Most High), and Jehovah Rapha (The Lord Who Heals), each highlighting different aspects of His character.

Jesus in the Bible

Jesus is described as:

  • The Messiah and Son of God - His life, death, and resurrection are central to Christian faith.

  • Savior and King - Titles like "King of kings" and "Lord of lords" affirm His divine authority.

  • Humanity and Divinity - John 1:14 speaks of Jesus as the Word made flesh, highlighting His unique role as both divine and human.

Implications for Faith

Understanding Jesus's role within the Trinity affects our faith profoundly:

  • Jesus as Intermediary - He serves as our high priest, bridging humanity to God.

  • The Holy Spirit - Sent by God to dwell within us, guiding us in Jesus's absence.

Faith in this divine relationship does not require complete comprehension but trust in the eternal, loving nature of God. As Hebrews 11:6 states, "And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him."

In essence, whether we address our prayers to Jesus, God, or the Holy Spirit, we engage with the Triune God, who is one in essence, perfect, true, and right.

Amen.