Can One Be Justifiably Incredulous of the Trinity Based On This Meme?

I saw the following meme on Facebook and I responded to it with what I wrote below it. It's my very brief refutation:

MY RESPONSE:

Nearly Every other doctrine in the Bible needs to be systematized. Whether the attributes of God, eschatology, ecclesiology, sacramentology, atonement theories, how and in what sense the OT laws continue and/or are abrogated under the New Covenant, the relationship [if any] between Israel and the Church, etc. Why think that wouldn't be the case for Christology and theology proper [i.e. the doctrine of God in particular]? Most of the New Testament books are occasional letters. Meaning letters written on an occasion to address a particular issue the author deems necessary to focus on. They weren't written to teach the very basics of the faith.

The rudimentary elements and concept of the Trinity are presupposed in the New Testament Scriptures, and strongly hinted at in the Old Testament. The Trinity makes most sense of the comprehensive data and evidence we find in the Bible. It's the best abductive explanation. Abduction is inference to the best explanation. Or reasoning to that theory that has the greatest explanatory power, explanatory scope, is least Ad Hoc, fits best with already established facts, et cetera. 

For example, it only makes sense that the Holy Spirit is in some sense divine if Christians are the temple of God due to the indwelling of the Holy Spirit [1 Cor. 6:19; 3:16-17] . It only makes sense that Jesus is fully divine if He's worshipped to the same degree as the Father [John 5:23; Heb. 1:6 citing the LXX of Ps. 97:7 & Deut. 32:43]. These, and many other thing, are things that don't make sense in various types of anti-Trinitarian Unitarianism. 

Why for example does the New Testament teach all three persons dwell in believers [Father and Son: John 14:21-23; Son: Rev. 3:20; John 17:23], if it's not the case that all three persons are divine. Why are ALL THREE said to be INVOLVED in creation [Jesus: John 1:1ff.; 1Cor. 8:6; Col. 1:16; Spirit:Job 33:4; Ps. 33:6; 104:30], and redemption [Spirit: Eph. 4:30; Rom. 8:23], sanctification [Jesus: 1 Cor. 1:2, 30; Heb. 10:10; 13:12; Spirit: 1 Pet. 1:2; 2 Thess. 2:13; Rom. 15:16] and the resurrection of Christ [Christ: John 2:18; 10:17-18; Spirit: Rom. 1:4; 8:11]? Why are all three taught to be followed and obeyed [Jesus is obvious; Spirit: Isa. 63:10; Acts 7:51]? Why all three are said to give spiritual gifts [Jesus: Eph. 4:7ff.; Spirit: 1 Cor. 12:11]? Why all three said to be mentioned and invoked in the initiation rite of entrance into the church [Matt. 28:19ff.]? Why all three invoked in a benediction [2 Cor. 13:14]? Why all three are said to be objects whom we ought not to blaspheme [Mark 3:28-29; Matt. 12:31-32; Luke 12:10]? Why all three objects whom we are to seek fellowship [Jesus: 1 John 1:3; Spirit: 2 Cor. 13:14]? Why all three teach and guide us [Jesus: John 13:14; 8:12; Spirit: John 14:26; Luke 12:12; 1 Cor. 2:12-13, Heb. 9:8; Job 32:8]  Why all three are a source of grace [Jesus: 1 Thess. 5:28; 1 Cor. 13:14; Phil 4:23; Spirit: Heb. 10:29; Zech 12:10]? EXAMPLES COULD BE MULTIPIED. But they will never be enough for a hard headed Unitarian.

The Athanasian Creed: Christianity’s Most Controversial Statement of Faith by Gavin Ortlund

 
As I've written I'm open to various models of the Trinity. The following is a video by Gavin Ortlund on the Athanasian Creed.

The Athanasian Creed: Christianity’s Most Controversial Statement of Faith 
https://youtu.be/qpekHClbGjI

 

 

 

 

Trinitarianism Is More Monotheistic Than Unitarianism

 

Unitarians often argue that the understanding of monotheism of the Jews during the Biblical periods precludes Trinitarianism and Binitarianism because it's a strict understanding of the unity and singularity of God. 

But we Trinitarians argue that that approach doesn't go far enough in explaining the radical nature of Jewish monotheism. Because Biblical Jewish monotheism was so extreme that it would not permit any similarly and association between YHWH/Yahweh/Jehovah and any other being or person with near or exact status. It made sure to distance YHWH and all other things and beings. The very fact that the New Testament so identifies Jesus and the Holy Spirit with the Father and the Father's attributes is a strong telling sign that Trinitarianism is true. Because it would have been blasphemous to Biblical Jews to so associate something else with YHWH with YHWH's unique attributes, honors, prerogatives, name, deeds/works, and authority if the Son and Spirit weren't full, true and proper deity along with and united to the Father.

Note that I'm talking about orthodox Jewish theology during the Biblical periods. Extra-biblical and post-Biblical Jews did sometimes associate other beings to near status of God. But often still distinguishing the Most High with the exalted mediator. 

Given that, either the Jesus of the New Testament is a heretical mutation of Biblical Judaism, or something like Trinitarianism or Binitarianism must be true.

Here are some examples of attributes and prerogatives that only belong to YHWH, yet the New Testament also assigns to Jesus:

Jesus will judge the world, despite the Old Testament teaching that YHWH will judge the world [John 5:22; 2 Cor. 5:10 compare Gen. 18:25; Rom. 14:10; Ps. 7:8; 9:8, 18; 58:11; 67:4; 82:8; 96:10-13; 98:9]

Jesus tests hearts and rewards according to works [Rev. 2:23 compare Jer. 17:10;  Ps. 62:12]

Jesus is the First and Last [Rev. 1:17; 2:8; 22:12-13 compare Isa. 41:4; 44:6; 48:12]

See my blog:

http://trinitynotes.blogspot.com/2014/03/revelation-2212-13-and-deity-of-christ.html

The Fear of the Lord Jesus is tantamount to the Fear of YHWH. See my blog:

http://trinitynotes.blogspot.com/2014/05/the-reverence-for-jesus-is-fear-of.html

The "Day of YHWH" is associated with the "Day of the Lord (Jesus)" [1 Cor. 5:5; 1 Thess. 5:2; 2 Thess. 2:2]

God's angels are Jesus' angels [Matt. 13:41; 16:27]

God's Spirit is Jesus' Spirit [Rom. 8:9; Gal. 4:6; 1 Pet. 1:11]. 

This makes sense given the Trinitarian doctrine of perichoresis/circumincession.

See my blog:

http://trinitynotes.blogspot.com/2014/09/the-spirit-of-jesus.html

Jesus is to be Worshipped by all the angels with the highest form of worship. The Septuagint of Deut. 32:43 and Ps. 97:7 is applied to Jesus in Heb. 1:6 even though the original context is of the Supreme worship given to YHWH.

Jesus was involved in creation despite Isa. 44:24 saying only YHWH was involved in creation [compare John 1:1-3; 1 Cor. 8:6; Col. 1:16]

Jesus trods the winepress of the wrath of God Rev. 19:15 despite Isa. 63:3 saying YHWH alone does so.

Testing Jesus amounts to testing YHWH as per 1 Cor. 10:9

See my blog:

http://trinitynotes.blogspot.com/2014/08/the-temptingtesting-of-christ-is.html

The Will of Jesus is paramount as God's is. [Cf. 1 Cor. 4:19; 16:7; Acts 21:13-14; 2 Cor. 2:12-13; Acts 16:6-7]

http://trinitynotes.blogspot.com/2014/05/lord-jesus-christ-willing-gods-will-and.html

Trusting in Jesus is tantamount to trusting in YHWH. See my blog:

http://trinitynotes.blogspot.com/2014/05/trust-in-jesus-is-apparently-trust-in.html

Jesus may work on the sabbath as YHWH works on the Sabbath:

See my blog:

http://trinitynotes.blogspot.com/2014/05/jesus-breaking-sabbath-as-evidence-of.html

Jesus is Lord of the Sabbath as YHWH is the Lord of the Sabbath. See my blog:

http://trinitynotes.blogspot.com/2014/05/jesus-lord-of-sabbath.html

Jesus is omniscient as YHWH. See my blog:

http://trinitynotes.blogspot.com/2015/12/jesus-omniscience.html

The table of Jesus is the table of YHWH. See my blog:

http://trinitynotes.blogspot.com/2014/08/the-cup-and-table-of-lord-as-evidence.html

Answering the Unitarian Use John 17:3 from a Trinitarian Perspective

 By Artison Rex from Facebook 

John 17:3— in Trinitarian Light

Answering John 17:3 from a Trinitarian Perspective

📖 John 17:3 – “And this is eternal life, that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.”

Unitarians often cite this verse to argue that Jesus excludes Himself from being God by referring to the Father as "the only true God." However, from a Trinitarian perspective, this passage does not contradict the doctrine of the Trinity. Instead, it aligns with it when properly understood in context.

Contextual Considerations:

1. Jesus’ Statement Affirms Monotheism, Not Unitarianism

🔹 Jesus, as a Jew, affirms monotheism—that there is only one true God (Deuteronomy 6:4).

🔹 Trinitarians also affirm one God, but understand that the one divine essence is shared by three Persons: the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

🔹 Jesus calling the Father “the only true God” does not exclude Himself from divinity, just as saying “Jesus is the only true Lord” does not exclude the Father from being Lord.

💡 Parallel Argument:

✅ 1 Corinthians 8:6 – "For us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things... and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things."

• If calling the Father "one God" excludes the Son, then calling Jesus "one Lord" would also exclude the Father.

• But Trinitarians understand this as distinguishing persons, not denying deity.

2. Jesus is Included in the Identity of the "Only True God"

🔹 Jesus is described throughout the Gospel of John as fully divine and one with the Father:

• John 1:1 – "The Word was God."

• John 10:30 – "I and the Father are one."

• John 20:28 – Thomas calls Jesus "My Lord and my God."

🔹 Since Jesus is the divine Son of the Father, acknowledging the Father as "the only true God" does not exclude Jesus but affirms their relationship within the Trinity.

💡 Key Point:

✅ John 17:3 does not deny Jesus' deity—it defines eternal life as knowing both the Father and the Son.

3. The Context: Eternal Life Requires Knowing Both the Father and the Son

🔹 Jesus does not stop at saying "that they may know You, the only true God." He adds:

• "and Jesus Christ whom You have sent."

🔹 If Jesus were merely a human prophet, it would be blasphemous to put knowing Him on the same level as knowing God.

🔹 In contrast, throughout Isaiah (e.g., Isaiah 43:10-11), God alone is the source of salvation—yet here, eternal life depends on knowing both the Father and the Son.

💡 Conclusion:

✅ If knowing Jesus is essential for eternal life, then Jesus must be divine, not merely a created being.

4. Jesus Shares the Father's Glory (John 17:5)

📖 John 17:5 – "And now, Father, glorify Me in Your own presence with the glory that I had with You before the world existed."

🔹 Jesus speaks of a shared eternal glory with the Father—something that no mere human or created being can claim.

🔹 Isaiah 42:8 – God says, "I will not give My glory to another." Yet, Jesus asks to be glorified alongside the Father.

🔹 This confirms that Jesus shares in the divine nature.

💡 Key Point:

✅ Jesus is not separating Himself from the Father’s deity—He is affirming His eternal relationship with the Father.

Conclusion: John 17:3 in a Trinitarian Framework

✔ Jesus calls the Father "the only true God" in distinction of person, not exclusion of essence.

✔ Jesus is included in the identity of the one true God throughout John’s Gospel.

✔ Eternal life depends on knowing both the Father and the Son, affirming Jesus’ divine status.

✔ Jesus claims preexistent glory with the Father, confirming His divine nature.

John 17:3, when read in context, supports rather than contradicts the Trinity. The context supports the Trinitarian understanding of the passage!

Answering Unitarian Objections and Argument:

Refuting Unitarian Grammatical Arguments

A. The "Appositional Phrase" and "only" Argument

Unitarians claim that "the only true God" in John 17:3 is an appositional phrase, meaning they suggest, that it restricts divinity exclusively to the Father.

Why This Argument Fails

• Greek Syntax Does Not Demand Exclusivity

• The phrase "the only true God" (τὸν μόνον ἀληθινὸν θεὸν) does not necessarily exclude Jesus.

• In Greek, an appositional phrase simply identifies the subject but does not automatically exclude others from also being true God. It simply identifies or explains the subject more precisely.

• Similar Constructions Exist Without Exclusivity

• Jude 4: Jesus is called "our only Master and Lord" (τὸν μόνον δεσπότην καὶ κύριον ἡμῶν Ἰησοῦν Χριστόν)

• But God the Father is also called "Lord" throughout Scripture (e.g., Luke 1:32, Matthew 11:25).

Conclusion: Just as Jude 4 does not exclude the Father from being Lord, John 17:3 does not exclude Jesus from being the true God.

B. The Use of "Only" (μόνον) Restricts Divinity to the Father

• The Greek word for "only" (μόνος) is an exclusive term, meaning "alone, without another."

Since μόνος modifies "the true God" (τὸν ἀληθινὸν θεὸν), it means that the Father is the only true God, excluding Jesus from this category, Unitarians would argue. But is this so?

• Parallel Uses of "Only" in Greek

• Mark 2:7 – "Who can forgive sins but God alone (μόνος)?"

• Matthew 4:4 "live by bread alone, (μόνῳ) but by every word"

• Matthew 12:4 "for them which were with him, but only (μόνος) for the priests"

• In these passages, "only" Gr. μόνος doesn't always exclude all else, clear exceptions are made in the immediate context. Men do not "only" "live by bread," for example, they eat fish, fruit, and vegetables. These passages, just as Jude 4, have clear exceptions to the word "only" made elsewhere. (See also Bengel's Gnomen cited below *¹)

• Likewise, in John 17:3, we should not take the passage to exclude Jesus Christ from the "only true God" phrase, rather we should accept the passage as Jesus Christ rightly pointing to the Father as the true God as opposed to the false gods of the heathen.

🔷️John 17:3 in Light of 1 John 5:20

A. John 17:3 Does Not Exclude Jesus from Being the True God

"And this is eternal life, that they know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent." (John 17:3)

Unitarians claim that Jesus is distinguishing the Father as "the only true God," thereby denying that He Himself is God. However, this interpretation is flawed because:

• John 17:3 does not say "the Father alone is God"—it only affirms that the Father is the true God, without denying Christ’s divinity.

• 1 John 5:20 explicitly calls Jesus "the true God and eternal life," which completes the picture of John 17:3 by showing that both the Father and the Son share the divine identity.

• Eternal life requires knowledge of both the Father and the Son, meaning that Christ is essential for salvation (cf. John 5:23).

B. 1 John 5:20: Jesus Is Also the "True God"

"And we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life." (1 John 5:20)

Since 1 John 5:20 directly applies "the true God" to Jesus, the Unitarian interpretation of John 17:3 collapses. Instead of contradicting John 17:3, 1 John 5:20 shows that both the Father and the Son are included in the divine identity. (See Barnes and Matthew Poole at the bottom who also make this parallel*²)

🔷️Hebrews 1:8-10: The Father Calls Jesus "God" and "Lord"

One of the most striking affirmations of Jesus' deity comes from the Father Himself:

"But of the Son He says, ‘Your throne, O God, is forever and ever’." (Hebrews 1:8)

"You, Lord, laid the foundation of the earth in the beginning." (Hebrews 1:10)

Key Points:

• The Father explicitly calls Jesus "God."

• Jesus is called "Lord" in the sense of YHWH, since Psalm 102:25-27 (applied here) refers to YHWH creating the heavens.

• No one argues that Jesus is above the Father, yet the Father Himself calls Jesus both God and Lord.

🔷️ Other Arguments of Exclusivity Favor the Trinitarian Perspective

• The Bible in numerous places adamantly teaches Monotheism-the belief in only one true God. For example: Deut 4:35, 6:4, 32:39, Isa 44:6, 45:5, 6. It is also taught in the NT just as strongly: 1 Cor 8:4; Eph 4:6, 1 Tim 1:17, John 17:3. Lest there be doubt that there is one, and only one, true God, according to the Bible. For example, Isa 45:5, "I am the LORD, and there is no other; apart from me there is no God." Despite the above, the NT repeatedly calls Jesus God, Matt 1:22, 23; John 1:1, 18, Col 2:9, and not just any god, but uses the phrase, "ho theos" so that there can be no doubt, John 20:28, Heb 1:8. The implication here is that both God the Father and Jesus are the one true God.

• We have the same situation with the title, "Creator". For example in Isa 44:24, "I am the LORD, the Maker of all things, who stretches out the heavens, who spreads out the earth by myself" See also Isa 45:18. Yet in the NT we have similar assertions that Jesus created all things, John 1:3, Col 1:16, 17. Again, the implication is that both Jesus and God constitute the One true creator.

• There is an almost identical situation with Saviour and Redeemer; for example, Isa 43:11 says: "I, even I, am the LORD, and apart from me there is no savior." See also Isa 43:3, 45:18. Yet in the NT we often have Jesus referred to our true Saviour and Redeemer: Matt 1:21; Acts 4:12; 2 Tim 1:10; Tit 1:4, 2:13, 3:6; 2 Pet 1:1, 11. Once more, the implication being that both God the Father (YHWH) and Jesus constitute the One True Saviour of mankind.

• The same is true of the One "Rock" as per Isa 44:8, "Is there any God besides me? No, there is no other Rock; I know not one." See also Deut 32:3,4,15; Ps 92:15. In the NT we find that 1Cor 10:4 says, "for they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that rock was Christ." The implication is that both God the Father and Jesus constitute the One true Rock.

• Another point, for example, is God the Father does not share His glory (Isa 42:8, 48:11) yet we find in John 17:5, 24 Jesus shares the Father's glory.

• In Isa 41:4; 44:6 The Father (YHWH, LORD) is called, "First and Last" and so is Jesus, Rev 1:17, 18; 22:13

• Jehovah is the declared the only One who is deserving of worship in Ex 20:3, 34:14; Deut 8:19; 2 Kings 17:35-38; (see also Matt 4:10; Acts 10:25, 26; Rev 19:10, 22:8, 9), yet the NT records numerous times when Jesus was worshipped Matt 2:11; 14:33; 28:9, 17; Luke 4:8; 24:52; John 9:38; Rom 10:9; Heb 1:5, 6; Phil 2:10, etc.

🔷️Patristic Considerations and Arguments from the Saints

John 17:3 was used by Arius to maintain that Jesus Christ was not of the same nature as the Father; however this objection was resolved.

St Thomas excellently writes in his commentary on the Gospel of John (17):

Secondly, we should explain the phrase, you the only true God. It is clear that Christ was speaking to the Father, so when he says, you the only true God, it seems that only God the Father is true God. The Arians agree with this, for they say that the Son differs by essence from the Father, since the Son is a created substance, although he shares in the divinity more perfectly and to a greater degree than do all other creatures. So much more that the Son is called God, but not the true God, because he is not God by nature, which only the Father is.

Hilary answers this by saying that when we want to know whether a certain thing is true, we can determine it from two things: its nature and its power. For true gold is that which has the species of true gold; and we determine this if it acts like true gold. Therefore, if we maintain that the Son has the true nature of God, because the Son exercises the true activities of divinity, it is clear that the Son is true God. Now the Son does perform true works of divinity, for we read, "Whatever he [the Father] does, that the Son does likewise" (5:19); and again he said, "For as the Father has life in himself," which is not a participated life, "so he has granted the Son also to have life in himself" (5:26); "That we may be in his true Son, Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life" [1 Jn 5:20].

According to Hilary, he says, you the only true God, in a way that does not exclude another. He does not say without qualification, you the only, but adds and Jesus Christ whom you have sent. It is like saying: that they know you and Jesus Christ whom you have sent to be the one and only true God. This is a pattern of speaking that we also use when we say [in the Gloria]: "You alone, Jesus Christ, are the most high, together with the Holy Spirit." No mention is made of the Holy Spirit because whenever the Father and the Son are mentioned, and especially in matters pertaining to the grandeur of the divinity, the Holy Spirit, who is the bond of the Father and Son, is implied.

Or, according to Augustine in his work, The Trinity, he says this to exclude the error of those who claim that it is false to say that the Father is God, and the Son is God, and the Holy Spirit is God; while it is true to say that the Father and the Son and Holy Spirit are one God. The reason for this opinion was that the Apostle said that "Christ [is] the power of God and the Wisdom of God" (1 Cor 1:24). Now it is clear that we cannot call anyone God unless he has divine power and wisdom. Therefore, since these people held that the Father was wisdom, which is the Son, they held further that the Father considered without the Son would not be God. And the same applies to the Son and the Holy Spirit.

In summary:

• Hilary’s Response:

• Something is "true" based on its nature and power (e.g., true gold has both the properties and actions of gold).

• Since the Son performs divine works (John 5:19, 5:26), He possesses the divine nature and is true God.

• 1 John 5:20 states: “This is the true God and eternal life,” referring to the Son.

• Jesus’ phrase "you the only true God" does not exclude the Son but includes Him as sharing in the one divine essence.

• Hilary’s Linguistic Argument:

• The phrase "you the only true God" is structured in a way that does not exclude Jesus.

• Example: In the Gloria, we say, "You alone, Jesus Christ, are the most high, together with the Holy Spirit," implying shared divinity.

• The Holy Spirit is not mentioned explicitly but is always implied when the Father and Son are referenced.

• Augustine’s Explanation (from The Trinity):

• The phrase guards against a misunderstanding that denies the distinct persons of the Trinity.

• Some falsely claim that only the Trinity as a whole is God, rather than the individual persons being fully God.

• Since Christ is called the Wisdom and Power of God (1 Cor 1:24), and only a being with divine wisdom and power can be God, both the Father and Son must be fully God.

• Thus, the Father is not God apart from the Son, and vice versa, preserving Trinitarian unity.

🔷️ Commentator's on John 17:3

🔅Bengel's Gnomen (*¹)

μόνον, the only, the alone) The Son and Holy Spirit are not excluded by this word. Comp. μόνος, ch. John 8:9, “Jesus was left alone, and the woman.” But those meant to be excluded are the false gods, with the idolatrous worship of which the world was crowded.

🔅Barnes writes: (*²)

The only true God - The only God, in opposition to all false gods. What is said here is in opposition to idols, not to Jesus himself, who, in 1 John 5:20, is called "the true God and eternal life."

🔅Matthew Poole writes: (*²)

the only true God. But divines answer, that the term only, or alone, is not to be applied to thee, but to the term God; and the sense this: To know thee to be that God which is the only true God: and this appeareth from 1Jo 5:20, where Christ is said to be the true God, which he could not be if the Father were the only true God, considered as another from the Son. The term only, or alone, is not exclusive of the other two Persons in the Trinity, but only of idols, the gods of the heathen, which are no gods; so 1 Timothy 6:15,16, and many other Scriptures: so Matthew 11:27, where it is said, that none knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any the Father, save the Son; where the negative doth not exclude the Holy Spirit. Besides, the term alone is in Scripture observed not always to exclude all others, as Mark 6:47. Our Saviour saith, it is life eternal to know him who is the only true God, that is, it is the way to eternal life, which is an ordinary figure used in holy writ. He adds,

and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent; by which he lets us know, that the Father cannot be savingly known, but in and by the Son.

🔅Pulpit Commentary

The life eternal, of which Jesus has just spoken, is this (cf. for construction, John 15:12; 1 John 3:11, 23; 1 John 5:3), that they might know - should come to know - thee, the only veritable God. All ideas of God which deviate from or fall short of "the Father" revealed to us by Christ, are not the veritable God, and the knowledge of them is not life eternal. The Father is here set forth as the fens Deitatis. This does not exclude "the Son," but is inconceivable without him. The Fatherhood expresses an eternal relation. The one element involves the ether as integral to itself: "I am in the Father, and the Father in me."

🔷️ Conclusion: John 17:3 Does Not Deny Christ’s Deity

• 1 John 5:20 explicitly calls Jesus "the true God and eternal life."

• Greek syntax does not exclude Jesus from being God.

• Unitarians misinterpret "only" (μόνος), ignoring exceptions like Jude 4.

• The Father and Son share divine attributes.

• Hebrews 1:8-10 shows that the Father calls Jesus "God" and "Lord."

Thus, John 17:3 does not contradict Christ’s deity but affirms the unity of the Father and Son. Jesus Christ is truly the True God and Eternal Life.

The Holy Trinity—Master List V2 BY Artison Rex

 

The Holy Trinity—Master List V2

by Artison Rex

The Biblical Doctrine of the Trinity: An Exhaustive Reference

The doctrine of the Trinity is rooted in the Bible's affirmation of monotheism—that there is only one true and living God—and yet it simultaneously reveals three distinct Persons who are fully and equally God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. This is not a contradiction but a mystery consistent with the scriptural witness.

I. The Foundation: Monotheism

• Deuteronomy 6:4 – "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one."

• Isaiah 43:10 – "Before me no god was formed, nor shall there be any after me."

• Isaiah 44:6 – "I am the first and I am the last; besides me there is no god."

• Isaiah 45:5-6, 21-22 – "I am the LORD, and there is no other, besides me there is no God."

• Mark 12:29-32 – Jesus affirms the Shema: "The Lord our God, the Lord is one."

• 1 Timothy 2:5 – "For there is one God..."

II. The Deity of Each Divine Person

A. The Father is God

• John 6:27 – "The Father, who has set his seal on him."

• 1 Peter 1:2 – "According to the foreknowledge of God the Father..."

• Romans 1:7 – "Grace to you and peace from God our Father."

• Galatians 1:1 – "God the Father, who raised him from the dead."

B. Jesus Christ is God

• John 1:1 – "The Word was God."

• John 1:14 – "The Word became flesh and dwelt among us."

• John 1:18 – "The only God, who is at the Father's side, he has made him known."

• John 20:28 – Thomas: "My Lord and my God!"

• Romans 9:5 – "Christ, who is God over all, blessed forever."

• Titus 2:13 – "Our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ."

• 2 Peter 1:1 – "Our God and Savior Jesus Christ."

• Hebrews 1:8 – "But of the Son he says, 'Your throne, O God, is forever and ever.'"

• Philippians 2:6 – "Though he was in the form of God..."

• Colossians 1:15-17 – "In him all things were created."

• Colossians 2:9 – "In him the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily."

C. The Holy Spirit is God

• Acts 5:3-4 – Lying to the Holy Spirit is lying to God.

• 1 Corinthians 3:16 – "God's Spirit dwells in you."

• 2 Corinthians 3:17 – "The Lord is the Spirit."

• Hebrews 9:14 – "The eternal Spirit."

• Psalm 139:7-8 – Omnipresence of the Spirit.

• Some quotes in the Old Testament spoken by Yahweh are said (in the NT) to have been spoken by the Holy Spirit (Acts 28:25-27; Heb. 10:15-17)

III. Distinction of Persons

• John 5:20, 30, 32, 37 – The Father and the Son are not the same person.

• John 14:16 – Jesus will ask the Father to send another Helper.

• John 15:26 – The Spirit proceeds from the Father, sent by the Son.

• John 17:5 – Jesus speaks of the glory he had with the Father before the world existed.

• Matthew 3:16-17 – At Jesus' baptism: the Father speaks, the Son is baptized, the Spirit descends.

IV. Unity of the Three Persons

• Matthew 28:19 – "Baptizing them in the name [singular] of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."

• 2 Corinthians 13:14 – "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit."

• Ephesians 4:4–6 – "One Spirit... one Lord... one God and Father."

V. Interchange and Indistinction in Roles

• 1 Corinthians 10:9 – The Israelites tested Christ in the wilderness, though YHWH is the referent in Numbers.

• Romans 8:9 – Spirit of God and Spirit of Christ used interchangeably.

• Romans chapter 8 (whole chapter) all three referred to interchangeably.

• Acts 16:6–7 – The Holy Spirit and Spirit of Jesus guide Paul. Used interchangeably. 

• 2 Corinthians 3:17–18 – "The Lord is the Spirit."

• 1 Peter 1:11 – The Spirit of Christ in the prophets.

VI. The Work of the Trinity

A. Creation

• Genesis 1:1–3, 26 – God creates, Spirit hovers, plural language used.

• Psalm 148:5 – Commanded by God, creation exists.

• John 1:1–3 – The Word created all things.

• Colossians 1:16 – All things created through and for the Son.

B. Revelation

• John 1:17-18 – The Son reveals the Father.

• John 16:13-15 – The Spirit glorifies the Son, sent by the Father.

• Mark 13:11 – The Holy Spirit speaks through believers.

• 2 Corinthians 13:3 – Christ speaks in Paul.

• Hebrews 1:1-2 – God spoke through the Son.

C. Sanctification

• Hebrews 2:11 – Jesus as sanctifier.

• 1 Peter 1:2 – Sanctification of the Spirit.

• Jude 1 – Sanctified by the Father and preserved in Jesus.

D. Supplying Ministers

• Jeremiah 3:15; 26:5 – God gives shepherds.

• Matthew 5:10 – Blessed are the persecuted for righteousness.

• Acts 13:2 – The Holy Spirit sets apart Paul and Barnabas.

• Acts 20:28 – The Spirit appoints overseers.

• Ephesians 4:11 – Christ gives apostles, prophets, etc.

E. Prayer and Access to God

• John 14:14 – Prayer in Jesus’ name.

• Ephesians 1:6; 2:18; 6:18 – Access to the Father through the Son by the Spirit.

F. Confirmation and Presence

• Matthew 3:16–17 – Father speaks, Son baptized, Spirit descends.

• Matthew 17:5 – Transfiguration: Father affirms Son.

G. Salvation

• John 6:63 – The Spirit gives life.

• 1 Corinthians 6:11, 19-20 – Washed, justified in the name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit.

• Ephesians 1:7–9 – Redemption in Christ, purpose of the Father.

• 2 Thessalonians 2:13–14 – Chosen by God, sanctified by the Spirit, called through the gospel.

• Titus 3:4–6 – Saved by the mercy of God, through the washing of rebirth by the Holy Spirit.

• 1 Peter 1:2 – Chosen by the Father, sanctified by the Spirit, sprinkled by the blood of Christ.

VII. Reflections on the Trinity vs. Unitarianism

The vast and cohesive scriptural evidence points not toward a polytheistic view of separate divine beings, nor a modalistic confusion of roles, but to a complex unity—one God in three co-eternal, co-equal persons. Attempts to affirm only the deity of the Father while still calling Jesus "God" result in philosophical contradictions or a slide into functional polytheism.

Trinitarianism is not heathen; it is the most faithful and biblically consistent view of the one God revealed in Scripture.

The early Church Fathers universally affirmed this faith:

• Ignatius of Antioch (c. 110 AD): "Jesus Christ our God."

• Justin Martyr (c. 150 AD): "The Word... being God."

• Tertullian (c. 200 AD): Coined the term Trinitas (Trinity).

• Athanasius (4th Century): Defended the full deity of the Son and the Spirit.

Conclusion: The doctrine of the Trinity is not an invention of philosophy or creeds—it is the testimony of the whole of Scripture, rightly understood.

“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.” – 2 Corinthians 13:14

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The Biblical understanding of the Trinity is founded on strict Monotheism~there is only one true God. (Dt 6:4;Is 43:10;44:6; etc.)

Yet, the Bible teaches and recognizes the Father as God (Jn 6:27; 1 Pe 1:2, etc)

The Lord Jesus Christ as God (Jn 1:1,14,18;20:28;Ro 9:5; Ti 2:13; 2 Pt 1:1; Heb 1:8, etc)

The Holy Spirit is recognized as God (Ax 5:3-4; 1 Cor 3:16)

These three are distinct individuals or persons

•the Father and Son are distinct (Jn 5:20,32,37;17:5)

•the Father and Son are distinct from the Spirit (Jn 14:16; 15:26)

These three are unified (Mt 28:19; also~3:12-16; 2 Cor 13:14)

●There exists some indistinction/interchange between the three:

•Jesus and the Father 1 Cor 10:9

•Between all 3 Rom 8:9

•Jesus and the Holy Spirit Ax 16:6-7 2Cor 3:17-18; 1 Pt 1:11

The Work of the Trinity~

Author of all Spiritual Operations 1 Cor 12:11; Col 1:29; Heb 13:21

Creator Gen 1:1-3,26;Ps 148:5;Jn 1:1-3;Col 1:16

Inspiring people to speak Mk 13:11;2 Cor 13:3; Heb 1:1

Sanctifier Heb 2:11; 1 Pt 1:2; Jude 1

Supplying ministers to the Church Jer 3:15;26:5; Mt 5.10; Ax 13:2; 20:28; Eph 4:11

Trinity works together in Revelation of God's truth Jn 1:17-18;16:13

Trinity works together in prayer Jn 14:14; Eph 1:6;2:18;6:18

Trinity works together in confirmation Mt 3:16-17

Trinity works together in salvation Jn 6:63; 1 Cor 6:19-21; Eph 1:7-9; 2 Thes 2:13-14; Ti 3:4-6; 1 Pt 1:2

As far as I can tell the Trinity is the best explanation of the references and information above.

I personally think there's just too much evidence that seems to work in favor of it, including quotes from the early Church Fathers and it's early formulation.

Also, on the flip side; I feel the Unitarian whether admitted or not has some problem with Polythiesm. If both Jesus and the Father can rightly be called "God" it seems to me those who affirm it, have an issue to one varying degree or other with a Polythiestic Pantheon where there is one Ultimate God but lesser Deities. This; to my mind, is far more 'heathen' than the Trinity could ever be.

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God is one Deut. 6:4

1.) Yet, the word "one" means one in unity as well as one in number. It means unity in John 10:30; 1 Jo 5:7; John 17:11,21-23 yet the 3 persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are spoken of as one in number and individuality. There is one God, the Father, one Lord Jesus Christ, and one Holy Spirit (1 Cor.8:6; Eph. 4:3-6)

The Father being called God (1 Cor. 8:6) the Son is called God (Is. 9:6; Heb 1:8; John 1:1-2,18;20:28) and the Holy Spirit is called God (Acts 5:3-4) Thus, there are 3 separate persons in divine individuality and divine plurality. As individuals they can rightly be called God and as a collective they can be spoken of and referred to as God. The word "God" is used either as a singular or plural word, like "sheep."

2.) Names/Titles of God prove a plurality of persons. The Hebrew word Elohim is the word for God in Ge 1:1 & in nearly 2600 other places in the OT. It is a uniplural noun meaning "Gods" and is so translated 210 times (Ge. 3:5; Ex. 22:28; 1 Sam 4:8; Dan 2:11; 4:6-9; 5:11,14, etc.) Sometimes elohim is used with plurality verbs and pronouns, "the Gods they caused me to wander" the monotheistic Abraham says in Ge. 20:13 and in Ge 35:7 it reads, "there the Gods appeared unto him" 

3.) Plural pronouns are used of God, proving a plurality of persons (Gen. 1:26;3:22;11:7;Is 6:8;John 14:23;17:11,22-22)

4.) "Man has become like one of us" Gen. 3:22 shows a plurality of persons.

5.) God said, "let us make man in our image, after our likeness" Ge. 1:26 "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him..." proves a plurality of persons, "Let US MAKE in OUR image" - 3 plural pronouns, "we,us,our" are used 6 times in four different texts: (Gen 1:26;3:22;11:7;Is. 6:8) whoever is being addressed has the potential in creating and since Ge. 1:27 reads "God created" and uses the singular pronoun "his image" the plurality of God is proven.

(The unanimous opinion of the early church fathers was God was convening with Christ )

6.) 2 or 3 persons called God have been seen by the same men at the same time and place(s) yet as being seperate persons. (Gen. 16:7-11;18:1-3,5,9-22;Dan. 7:9-14; Mat 3:16-17; Jn 1:31-34; Ax 7:54-60; Rev. 6:16;7:9-17;21:22; 22:3)

7.) 2 YaHWeHs are mentioned in Gen. 19:24 one on earth and one in heaven. Compare to Is. 44:6 where 2 YHWH are also distinguished, "thus saith Jehovah, the King of Israel, and HIS Redeemer, Jehovah of hosts" (ASV Emphasis mine) 

8.) Two persons are mentioned in the OT See Ps. 8:5-6 w/ Heb 2:5-18; Ps. 16:8-10 w/ Ax 2:25-36; Ps. 22:1-22 w/ Mat. 27:35,39-43,45-26; Heb. 9:14;10:5-12; Ps. 40:6-10 w/ Heb. 10:5-7; and Ps 45:6-7 w/ Heb 1:8-9

9.) 2 Lords are mentioned sitting side by side Ps. 110:1,5; Mt 22:44; 26:64; Ax 2:33-34;7:54-56;Ro 8:34; Eph. 1:20; Col. 3:1; Heb. 1:3,13;8:1;10:12;12:2; 1Pe 3:22; Rev. 22:3

10.)2 persons are required and mentioned to understand the plain language of Ps. 2 whole chapter; Pro 30:4; Is. 4:2;10:16-17;28:16;44:6;49:1-10;50:4-11;52:13-53:12; 62:11; Mic 5:1-5; Jer 23:4-8;33:14-26;Zech. 3:8-10;6:12-13 In these passages one is anointed, becomes the Son of/is the Son of, is set by, is taught by, and serves the other; yet both are called YHWH, and or Lord

11.) Three self acting persons- YHWH Jehovah God, the Christ,  and the Holy Spirit, are all referred to as blessing, anointing, sending and serving or doing things for one another. Ps. 110:1+Ax 2:34-35; 1 Cor. 15:25; Heb. 1:13; Is. 11:2;42:1-7;48:16;59:21;61:1-2;63:1-14;Zech. 12:10-13:2; Lk 24:49; Ax 16:7

12.)Zech. 1:7-21 Jehovah and the angel of Jehovah (also called Lord), 1:19-20;2:1-13) are talking together. One Lord says to the other Lord that he has sent him to Israel (2:8-13) one Lord refers to himself as me and to Jehovah of hosts as his and he (2:8-11) the conference continues throughout Zechariah until 13:6-7 where both Lords are called "fellows" or "associate"

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The following quotes show that the doctrine of the Trinity was indeed alive-and-well before the Council of Nicea: 

Polycarp (70-155/160).  Bishop of Smyrna.  Disciple of John the Apostle. 

“O Lord God almighty . . . I bless you and glorify you through the eternal and heavenly high priest Jesus Christ, your beloved Son, through whom be glory to you, with Him and the Holy Spirit, both now and forever” (n. 14, ed. Funk; PG 5.1040). 

Justin Martyr (100?-165?).  He was a Christian apologist and martyr. 

“For, in the name of God, the Father and Lord of the universe, and of our Savior Jesus Christ, and of the Holy Spirit, they then receive the washing with water” (First Apol., LXI). 

Ignatius of Antioch (died 98/117).  Bishop of Antioch.  He wrote much in defense of Christianity. 

“In Christ Jesus our Lord, by whom and with whom be glory and power to the Father with the Holy Spirit for ever” (n. 7; PG 5.988).

“We have also as a Physician the Lord our God Jesus the Christ the only-begotten Son and Word, before time began, but who afterwards became also man, of Mary the virgin.  For ‘the Word was made flesh.’ Being incorporeal, He was in the body; being impassible, He was in a passable body; being immortal, He was in a mortal body; being life, He became subject to corruption, that He might free our souls from death and corruption, and heal them, and might restore them to health, when they were diseased with ungodliness and wicked lusts.” (Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson, eds., The ante-Nicene Fathers, Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1975 rpt., Vol. 1, p. 52, Ephesians 7.) 

Irenaeus (115-190).  As a boy he listened to Polycarp, the disciple of John.  He became Bishop of Lyons. 

“The Church, though dispersed throughout the whole world, even to the ends of the earth, has received from the apostles and their disciples this faith: . . . one God, the Father Almighty, Maker of heaven, and earth, and the sea, and all things that are in them; and in one Christ Jesus, the Son of God, who became incarnate for our salvation; and in the Holy Spirit, who proclaimed through the prophets the dispensations of God, and the advents, and the birth from a virgin, and the passion, and the resurrection from the dead, and the ascension into heaven in the flesh of the beloved Christ Jesus, our Lord, and His manifestation from heaven in the glory of the Father ‘to gather all things in one,’ and to raise up anew all flesh of the whole human race, in order that to Christ Jesus, our Lord, and God, and Savior, and King, according to the will of the invisible Father, ‘every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth, and that every tongue should confess; to him, and that He should execute just judgment towards all . . . ‘” (Against Heresies X.l) 

Tertullian (160-215).  African apologist and theologian.  He wrote much in defense of Christianity. 

“We define that there are two, the Father and the Son, and three with the Holy Spirit, and this number is made by the pattern of salvation . . . [which] brings about unity in trinity, interrelating the three, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.  They are three, not in dignity, but in degree, not in substance but in form, not in power but in kind.  They are of one substance and power, because there is one God from whom these degrees, forms and kinds devolve in the name of Father, Son and Holy Spirit.” (Adv. Prax. 23; PL 2.156-7). 

Origen (185-254).  Alexandrian theologian.  Defended Christianity and wrote much about Christianity. 

“If anyone would say that the Word of God or the Wisdom of God had a beginning, let him beware lest he direct his impiety rather against the unbegotten Father, since he denies that he was always Father, and that he has always begotten the Word, and that he always had wisdom in all previous times or ages or whatever can be imagined in priority . . . There can be no more ancient title of almighty God than that of Father, and it is through the Son that he is Father” (De Princ. 1.2.; PG 11.132). 

“For if [the Holy Spirit were not eternally as He is, and had received knowledge at some time and then became the Holy Spirit] this were the case, the Holy Spirit would never be reckoned in the unity of the Trinity, i.e., along with the unchangeable Father and His Son, unless He had always been the Holy Spirit.” (Alexander Roberts and James Donaldson, eds., The Ante-Nicene Fathers, Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1975 rpt., Vol. 4, p. 253, de Principiis, 1.111.4) 

“Moreover, nothing in the Trinity can be called greater or less, since the fountain of divinity alone contains all things by His word and reason, and by the Spirit of His mouth sanctifies all things which are worthy of sanctification . . . ” (Roberts and Donaldson, Ante-Nicene Fathers, Vol. 4, p. 255, de Principii., I. iii. 7). 

Conclusion 

If, as the anti-Trinitarians maintain, the Trinity is not a biblical doctrine and was never taught until the council of Nicea in 325, then why do these quotes exist?  The answer is simple: the Trinity is a biblical doctrine, and it was taught before the council of Nicea in 325 A.D. 

Part of the reason that the Trinity doctrine was not “officially” taught until the time of the Council of Nicea is that Christianity was illegal until shortly before the council.  It wasn’t really possible for official Christian groups to meet and discuss doctrine.  For the most part, they were fearful of making public pronouncements concerning their faith. 

Additionally, if a group had attacked the person of Adam, the early church would have responded with an official doctrine of who Adam was.  As it was, the person of Christ was attacked.  When the Church defended the deity of Christ, the doctrine of the Trinity was further defined. Generally speaking, it usually takes some err for a position to 'have' to be articulated. The fact that the Nicene Council was overwhelming in agreement should lend some evidence to who is on the right side of the issue.

The early church believed in the Trinity as is evidenced by the quotes above, and it wasn’t necessary to really make them official.  It wasn’t until errors started to creep in that councils began to meet to discuss the Trinity as well as other doctrines that came under fire.

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Christ "Anointed One"

A. Preexistence of:

Affirmed in OT- Ps. 2:7;Pr. 30:4; Dan 7:13; Mi 5:2

Confirmed by Christ-Jn 8:57-58;3:13;6:33,38,62;8:23;16:28;17:5

Proclaimed by Apostles-Jn 1:1-3,12,14,18; Col 1:15-19; Philp 2:6-8

John the Baptist taught-Jn 1:30 Other Passages relating~Is 9:6; Zec 12:10;13:7; 1 Cor. 10:4; 2 Cor. 8:9; Heb ch 1; 11:26; (Angel of YHVH?)

"In the beginning" Jn 1:1-3,12,14,18;17:5,24;Col 1:17; 1 Jn 1:1;2:14

"Descended from heaven" Jn 3:13,31-36; 6:38,39,62; 8:23

"Come from the Father" Jn 1:18; 3:16,17,34; 5:36-38; 6:29,38,46,57; 7:27-29; 8:42; 10:36; 13:3; 16:30; 17:5,8,18; 1 Jn 1:1-3

"Before Abraham was" John 8:56-58

B. Deity/Divinity of: His own testimony regarding- Jn 7:29; 8:12-21,25-47; 10:25-38; 14:1-24; 15:8-27; 16:15; 17:1-8

His own Scriptural citations regarding his Deity- Jacob's dream of YHVH Jn 1:50-51+Gen 28:13-17 Shepherd Ps 23:1;95:7-8+Jn 10:11,27-28 Word forever Mk 13:31+Ps 119:89+Is 40:8 Mouth of Infants praise Mt 21:15-16+Ps 8:1-2 Shared glory/equal honor Jn 17:5+Is 42:8+Jn 5:23 Immutable hand Is 43:13+Jn 10:28-30 Fount of living water Jer 2:13+Jn 4:10;7:37 Light Is 60:19-20+Jn 8:12+1Jn 1:5;Jam 1:17 Judge of all Ps 62:12;96:13; Joel 3:12; Is 62:11+Mt 16:27; 25:31-46; Jn 5:22-23+Zec 14:3+Ax 1:6-11

I AM Ex 3:14; Dt 32:39;Is 43:10+Jn 8:24,28,58;18:5-8 Bridegroom Is 62:5; Hos 2:16+Mt 25:1;Rev 21:1,9 First and Last Is 41:4;44:6;48:12;Rev 1:7-8?+Rev 1:17-18;2:8;22:12-16

Acknowledged by Christ Jn 20:28,29

Predicted in Scripture Is 9:6; Jer 23:5-6; Mi 5:2; Zec 12:9-10; Mal 4:5

Acclaimed by witnesses Jn 1:1-3,14,18;Mk 2:7-8; Lk 5:21-22; Jn 5:18;10:33

Affirmed by Apostles-Ro 9:5; Phil 2:5-6; Col 1:16-17; 2:9; Ti 2:13; 2 Pt 1:1; Heb 1:8-10

•Creator Jn 1:1-4,10; 1 Cor 8:6; Eph 3:9; Col 1:16-17; Heb 1:2;8:10; Rev 3:14

•Equality with God Jn 5:17,18,23;10:30,38; 12:44-45; 14:6-11;15:23;17:10,21-23; 2 Cor 5:19; Phil 2:5-6; Col 1:15; 2:9; Heb 1:3-4, 10-12; 13:8

•Mutuality with God Mt 11:27; Jn 5:17,18,23-27,37,43; 12:44-45; 14:23; 16:23-32; 17:9-12; 2 Thes 1:2; 1 Ti 1:2

•Called God Is 7:14+Mt 1:23; Is 9:6; Jer 23:5-6; 33:16; Mt 4:7; Jn 1:1-4; 10:33; 20:28; Ax 20:28; Ro 9:5; Col 1:15,19; 2:9; 1 Ti 3:16; Ti 1:3;2:13; 2 Pt 1:1; He 1:8,10; 1 Jn 5:20

Called YHVH Is 40:3+Mt 3:3; Mk 1:1-3;Lk 3:4; Jn 1:23 Jacob's dream of YHVH Jn 1:50-51+Ge 28:13-17 YHVH's glory Is 6:1-3+Jn 12:41 YHVH first and last Is 41:4;44:6;48:12-16+Rev 1:17;2:8;22:12-16 YHVH Rock Ps 18:2; Is 44:8 cf Is 8:14; Dt 32:37+1Cor 10:4; 1 Pt 2:6+Is 8:14 Call on YHVH Joel 2:32+Ax 7:59-60; Rom 10:12-13; 1 Cor 1:2 Confessed as YHVH Is 45:23+Phil 2:9-11 

YHVH our righteousness Jer 23:5-6+1 Cor 1:30 YHVH pierced Zech 12:10+Jn 19:34-37

YHVH praised by Infants Ps 8:1-2+Mt 21:15-16

YHVH ascended on high Ps 68:18+Eph 4:7-10

YHVH Creator Heb 1:10-12 + Ps 102:25-27

Inferred as YHVH: By works~ Calming Storm Mt 8:23-27; Mk 4:39-41+Ps 107:28-29; 89:8-9 Walks on water Mk 6:48-51+Job 9:8 "I Am" Mt 14:27-33 "Why did you doubt?" Nu ch.14 Receives Worship 

Forgives sin Mk 2:5-12+Is 43:25; Nu 14:19-20; Ps 25:18; 32:5; 85:2;Jer 31:34;36:3

Healer of Infirmities Ps 103:2-5; 147:3+Mt 12:15;15:30; Lk 4:18,40; 6:19 Feeding Crowd in wilderness Mk 6:31-44; Jn 6:1-14 also Mk 8:1-9+Ex ch. 16

By reference~Peter's plea,like Isias Lk 5:8-10+Is 6:5 Seek and save the Lost Ez 34:16+Lk 19:9-10

Forgiver of sins Lk 7:36-50 Good Shepherd John 10:11-13+Ez 34:2,4 

King of Jews 1 Sam 8:6-7 + Mt 2:2;27:11 

•Pilate's sign "Jesus of Nazareth King of the Jews"~ acronym-acrostic  YHVH - Yeshua HaNazaret VaMelek HaYehudim Jn 19:19+Zech 12:9-10

YHVH's fellow/associate Zech 13:7+Phil 2:6

YHVH for whose glory all things were created Pr 16:4+Col 1:16 YHVH Messenger of the Covenant Mal 3:1;4:5+ Lk 2:6-27

Yhvh judge of all Ps 96:13; + Rev 19:11-20

•As Warrior Ex 15:3; Ps 24:8+Rev 19:11

•Breathe of his mouth Is 11:4; Job 4:9 + 2 Thess 2:8; Rev 1:16; 2:12,16; Rev 19:15

•Faithful and True Rev 3:14; 19:11+21:5

•Blood on Garments Is 63:3+Rev 19:13

•Lord of Lords Dt 10:17; Dan 2:47;8:25 + Rev 17:14; 19:16; 1 Tim 6:15

Return to Mt Olivet Zech 14 +Ax 1

Lord of Glory Ps 24:7-8 +1 Cor 2:8;James 2:1

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Jesus "Yahweh Saves" (see note on "Christ")

As God–YHVH God's pictographic name meaning~"yood-hand" "hey-behold" "vav-nail" "hey-behold" since Hebrew is a verb first language–God's Name literally means, "Behold, the Hand; Behold, the Nail"

Yahweh as Creator (Ge ch1 [v26-27] Is 44:24;Jn 1:1-3,10; Col 1:16-17; Heb 1:1-3,8-12+Ps 102:24-27)

Taking Adam's blame for sin (Ge 3:12+Zech 12:10;Jn 19:19)

Eve believes she got a man YHVH[?] (Ge 4:1)

Adam's Genealogy prophetic names (Gen ch5) "the Blessed God shall come down"

Yahweh giving new law on Mount (Ex ch 19-20+Mt ch5-7) "God said"~ "But I say"(to add to God makes Him God)

Yahweh Word never passes away (Is 40:8+Mt 24:35)

Yahweh's Law a way of life and death (Dt 30:19;+Mt 7:13-14, 24-27)

Yahweh saving his people with mighty hand and outstretched arm (Dt 26:8+Jesus' life and crucifixion)

Yahweh feeding multitudes in wilderness (Ex ch16+Mt 14:13-21)

Yahweh dwelling with his people (Ex. 25:8; Ez. 37:27; Zec 2:10+Mt 1:23;Jn 1:1,14,18)

Yahweh commissions people to Promised Land (Ge ch28; Ju ch1+Mt 28:18-20;Jn 1:49-51)

Yahweh promises his presence in conquest (Ge ch 28;Ex 3:12;Josh 1:5; Mt 28:18-20)

Yahweh King over Israel (1 Sam 8:7; Is 44:6; Jn 19:19)•Pilate's sign "Jesus of Nazareth King of the Jews"~ acronym-acrostic  YHVH - Yeshua HaNazaret VaMelek HaYehudim (Jn 19:19+Zech 12:9-10)

Yahweh as Calming storms (Ps 89:8-9;107:23-30 +Mk 4:39-41)

Yahweh as walking on water (Job 9:8+Mt 14:22-33; Mk 6:48-51) •Jesus identifies and comforts with "I am" Ex 3:14;Is 51:12; 52:6 •Why did you doubt? -Peter/like Israel doubted God– Mt 14:30-31; Nu ch14 •recieves worship Mt 14:33

By reference~Peter's plea,like Isias Lk 5:8-10+Is 6:5 

Yahweh Rejected (Ex 16:8;1 Sam 8:7+Is ch53;Jn 1:11)

Yahweh Shepherd (Ps 23:1; Jn 10:11)

Yahweh seated on Throne (Is 6:1-3 (10)+John 12:40,41+Rev 3:21;7:17)

Yahweh Stone of stumbling (Is 8:14;+1 Pt2:8)

Yahweh's teaching rejected (Dt 32:18;Jer 9:13 31:32+Jn 6:52-66)

Yahweh the God with us, (Is 7:14+Mt 1:23) Mighty God, Father of Eternity (Is 9:6;Mi 5:2;+Jn 1:1-3,10)

Yahweh alone who is God.  (Is 44:24+Jn 1:1,18,50-51; 20:28) ~Savior(Is 43:11+Ax 4:12; Titus2:13)  ~Rock (Is 44:8+1 Pe 2:6-8)

Yahweh who sends himself (Is 48:12-16; Zec 12:10)

Yahweh our Righteousness (Jer 23:5-6+1 Cor 1:30)

Yahweh seeks and saves lost (Ez 34:16+Lk 19:9-10)

Yahweh as Giving rest (Ex 33:14; Mt 11:28)

Yahweh source of life (Dt 30:20+Col 3:3-4)

Yahweh Healer of Infirmities (Ps 103:2-5; 147:3+Mt 12:15;15:30; Lk 4:18,40; 6:19)

Yahweh forgiver of sin (Mk 2:5-12+Is 43:25; Nu 14:19-20; Ps 25:18; 32:5; 85:2;Jer 31:34;36:31)

Yahweh Worker of Wonders (Ex 3:20; 4:8-9;15:11+Jn 2:1-12; 9:1-41)

Yahweh as Giving the Spirit (Jn14:26;15:26;16:7;20:22; 2Tim 1:7-9)

Yahweh as having his own people (Ez 37:23+Titus 2:11-14)

Yahweh vs. lawlessness (Barabas) chosen beside him (Ex ch 32; Lev 20:2-5; 2Ki 17:16; 21:6; Jer 32:35+Mt 27:16;Mk 5:17;Lu 23:18;Jn18:40; Ax 3:14)

Yahweh as First and Last (Is 44:6;48:12-16+Rev 1:17; 2:8; 22:13-16)

Yahweh as power over life and death (Gen 6:3; Dt 32:39; Jn 17:1-2; Rev 1:18)

Yahweh as upholding all things (Job 38:33-37;Ps 104:1-35;145:16-17; Ax 17:28+Col 1:16-20; Heb1:3)

Yahweh as Bridegroom (Is 62:5; Hos 2:16+Mt 25:1;Rev 21:1,9)

Yahweh as Comforter (Is 51:12;2 Cor 1:3-4;+Mt 11:28; Jn 14:18)

Yahweh as causing all things to work together for good (Ge 50:20; Book of Job;+Rev 2:10)

Yahweh ascended (Ps 68:18+Eph 4:7-10)

Yahweh from whom all blessings flow (Jam 1:17; Jn 14:14)

Taste and see Yahweh is good (Ps 34:8+ 1 Pe 2:3)

The Unchanging Yahweh (Mal 3:6+Heb 13:8)

Yahweh as all in all (1 Cor 15:28+Col 3:11; Eph 1:23)

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Angel of Yahweh

• Ge 16:8-14 Omniscience (tells Hagar about future descendants) Omnipotent (promises to make specific future occur) Recognized as God (Hagar calls the Angel "God who sees" Correlation to Christ (has familiar tenderness of Jesus in the Gospels. Like woman caught in adultery (Jn 8:1-11) Hagar has been misused and the Angel comes in understanding and sympathetic way

• Ge 22:11-12 speaks as God, identifies Himself as God (have not withheld your only son, from Me) Correlation with Christ (the Father sacrifices His Son to give eternal life Jn ch3)

• Ge 31:13 recalls Jacob's dream (Ge 28:12) where the Angel identifies Himself as "the God of Bethel" who revealed Himself previously to Jacob.

• Ex ch3 Identifies as God: If we weren’t told at the beginning this was an angel, we wouldn’t even know it. The rest of the narrative shows Moses speaking to God.

Recognized as God: Moses turns his face away because he is afraid to look upon God (verse 6).

Demands worship: The angel tells Moses to remove his shoes because the ground in the angel’s presence is holy.

Omniscience: The angel tells Moses he has heard the cries of the afflicted in Egypt (verse 7).

Omnipotence: The angel’s message is that he will use Moses to deliver his people. Throughout the exchange, the angel promises to display his power to Egypt.

Omnipresence: When Moses expresses doubt, the angel promises to be with him (verse 12).

Immutability: When the angel reveals the name of God as “I AM,” it signifies God’s timeless and unchangeable nature.

Correlation with Christ: Here we see the angel of the Lord demonstrating a characteristic we recognize from Jesus’ ministry. He is empowering Moses to release his people from bondage (Luke 4:16–21).

•Ex 14:19-20+13:21-22

Angel of Yahweh is a protector of the Israelites

Identified as God: At one moment the guiding phenomenon is linked to God, and later identified as the angel of the Lord.

Nu 22:22-35

Angel of Yahweh shows distinction from YHVH God here. Balaam is unable to see the Angel until is given vision to see.

Distinct from God: Here we see both God and the angel of the Lord as separate agents in the same story.

Identified as God: The angel identifies Balaam’s sin as a personal affront.

Sovereignty: The angel talks about potentially taking Balaam’s life, but it doesn’t appear to be an order. The comment is delivered in a way that indicates the angel’s own authority.

Jdg 2:1-5

Angel of the Lord points to himself as the one who delivered Israel from the Egyptians, is the keeper of Israel’s covenant, and requires obedience. As a consequence of their insubordination, the angel informs the Hebrew nation that he’s withdrawing his protection from them. Angel takes credit for what the entire Biblical witness associates with God.

Jdg ch 13

Sovereignty: The angel informs Manoah and his wife how he plans to use Samson.

Identified as God: Monoah recognizes that they have seen God (verse 22).

Accepts worship: When Manoah offers to sacrifice a goat to the angel, the angel tells him to sacrifice it to the Lord. But the author of Judges tells us that the angel only said that because Manoah didn’t understand who he was talking to (verses 15–16). When it’s all over and Manoah is worried about being killed for seeing God, his wife tells him “If the Lord had desired to kill us, He would not have accepted a burnt offering and a grain offering from our hands . . .” (verse 23).

Correlation with Christ: The angel of the Lord refuses to give Manoah his name because it is wonderful (or incomprehensible), which seems to hint to his identity as Wonderful, Counselor, and Mighty God (Isaiah 9:6).

1 Chr ch21

The Angel of Yahweh executes judgement over Jerusalem–a role associated with Jesus

Zech 1:12; 3:4

Correlation with Christ: Zechariah portrays the angel of the Lord as a mediator for Israel, an opponent of Satan, and a purifier of the righteous. These are all ministries associated with Jesus in the New Testament.

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Divinity of Jesus Christ in Early Christian Writings

He is Lord of all the world, to whom Hod said at the foundation of the world, "Let us make man after our image, and after our likeness." Barnabas (c.70-130, E),1.139.

Let us reverence the Lord Jesus Christ, whose blood was given for us. Clement of Rome (c.96, W), 1.11

God Himself was manifested in human form for the renewal of eternal life. Ignatius (c.105,E), 1.58

Continue in intimate union with Jesus Christ, our God. Ignatius (c.105,E), 1.68

I pray for your happiness forever in our God, Jesus Christ. Ignatius (c.105, E), 1.96

The Christians trace the beginning of their religion to Jesus the Messiah. He is called the Son of the Most High God. It is said that God came down from heaven. He assumed flesh and clothes Himself with it from a Hebrew Virgin. And the Son of God lived in a daughter of man. Aristides (c. 125, E), 9.265

Truly God Himself, who is Almighty, the Creator of all things, and invisible has sent from heaven, and placed among men, the One who is truth, and the Holy and incomprehensible Word...God did not, as one might have imagine, as one might have imagined, send to men any servant, angel or ruler....Rather, He sent the very Creator and Fashioner of all things–by whom He made the heavens...As a King sends his son, who is also a king, so God sent Him. He sent Him as God. Letter to Diognetus (c.125-200) 1.27.

Brethren, it is fitting that you should think of Jesus Christ as of God–as the Judge of the living and the dead. Second Clement (c.150), 7.517.

The Father of the Universe has a Son. And He, being the First Begotten Word of God, is even God. Justin Martyr (c 160, E), 1.184.

The above quotes were taken from: "A Dictionary of Early Christian Beliefs". David W. Bercot Hendrickson Publishers, 1998 pgs. 93-94

Justin Martyr quotes Jesus as God~

•"The Father of the universe has a Son, who also being the first begotten Word of God, is even God." (Justin Martyr, First Apology, ch 63)

• "Christ is called both God and Lord of hosts." (Dialogue with Trypho, ch, 36)

• Moreover, in the diapsalm of the forty-sixth Psalm, reference is thus made to Christ: 'God went up with a shout, the Lord with the sound of a trumpet."Dialogue with Trypho, ch 37

• "Therefore these words testify explicitly that He [Christ] is witnessed to by Him who established these things, as deserving to be worshipped, as God and as Christ." - Dialogue with Trypho, ch. 63.

• Justin Martyr in Chap. LXVI. He (Justin) Proves From Isaiah That God Was Born From A Virgin. (Chapter Title, Chap. LXVI)

•"And Trypho said, "You endeavor to prove an incredible and well-nigh impossible thing;[namely], that God endured to be born and become man...some Scriptures which we mention, and which expressly prove that Christ was to suffer, to be worshipped, and [to be called] God, and which I have already recited to you, do refer indeed to Christ." (Dialogue with Trypho, ch 68)

•[Trypho to Justin] "...you say that this Christ existed as God before the ages, and that He submitted to be born and become man" 

•"Whence to God alone we render worship." (Justin Martyr, First Apology, ch 17) Yet, Justin says that they worship Jesus Christ as God.  "Therefore these words testify explicitly that He [Christ] is witnessed to by Him who established these things, as deserving to be worshipped, as God and as Christ." - Dialogue with Trypho, ch. 63.

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Artificial Intelligence and Unitarianism vs. Trinitarianism

Obviously, all conversations with AI in 2025 should be taken with a grain of salt. I asked various Artificial Intelligences the following question:

Just based on the Biblical evidence alone and an inductive study of the Bible alone, and leaving out historical theology and later patristic church developments after the 1st century, which has a greater claim to being biblical? Something like Unitarianism or something like Trinitarianism?

Grok's answer:

To determine whether Unitarianism or Trinitarianism has a greater claim to being biblical based solely on an inductive study of the Bible, without reference to historical theology or post-1st-century patristic developments, we must examine the New Testament (and relevant Old Testament background) for evidence concerning the nature of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. An inductive approach involves collecting and analyzing scriptural data to form conclusions based on patterns and teachings in the text. Below, I’ll outline the key biblical evidence, assess how it aligns with Unitarianism (God as a single person, typically the Father, with Jesus as a distinct, non-divine being or subordinate agent) versus Trinitarianism (God as one being in three distinct, coequal, coeternal persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), and conclude which view better accounts for the full scope of biblical data.

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Biblical Evidence

1. Monotheism: The Oneness of God

The Bible consistently affirms that there is only one God, a foundational belief in both Unitarianism and Trinitarianism.

• Deuteronomy 6:4: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.”
• Isaiah 45:5: “I am the Lord, and there is no other; besides me there is no god.”
• Mark 12:29: Jesus quotes Deuteronomy 6:4, affirming, “The Lord our God, the Lord is one.”
• 1 Corinthians 8:4, 6: Paul states, “There is no God but one… for us there is one God, the Father, from whom are all things and for whom we exist, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist.”

Implication: Both Unitarianism and Trinitarianism affirm monotheism. Unitarianism interprets this as God being one person (the Father). Trinitarianism interprets it as one divine essence shared by three persons, consistent with the singular “God” and “Lord” in these texts.

2. The Identity of Jesus (The Son)

The New Testament’s portrayal of Jesus is central to distinguishing between Unitarianism and Trinitarianism.

• Divinity of Jesus:
  • John 1:1-3, 14: “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through him… And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us.” The “Word” (Jesus) is explicitly called God and credited with creation, a divine prerogative.
  • John 10:30: Jesus says, “I and the Father are one,” prompting accusations of blasphemy (John 10:33: “You, being a man, make yourself God”).
  • John 20:28: Thomas declares to Jesus, “My Lord and my God!” Jesus accepts this without correction.
  • Philippians 2:6-7: Jesus, “being in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant.”
  • Colossians 2:9: “In [Christ] the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily.”
  • Hebrews 1:3: Jesus is “the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature,” and in 1:8, God says of the Son, “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever” (quoting Psalm 45:6).
  • Titus 2:13: Paul refers to “our great God and Savior Jesus Christ.”
• Divine Prerogatives and Worship:
  • Mark 2:5-7: Jesus forgives sins, which the scribes recognize as a divine act (“Who can forgive sins but God alone?”).
  • John 5:22-23: Jesus says, “The Father… has given all judgment to the Son, that all may honor the Son, just as they honor the Father.”
  • Revelation 5:12-14: The Lamb (Jesus) receives worship alongside the Father, with creatures ascribing “blessing and honor and glory and might forever and ever” to both.
• Distinction from the Father:
  • John 14:28: Jesus says, “The Father is greater than I,” indicating a distinction in role or position.
  • John 17:5: Jesus prays, “Glorify me… with the glory I had with you before the world existed,” suggesting preexistence and distinction from the Father.
  • Matthew 26:39: Jesus prays, “Not as I will, but as you will,” showing distinct wills while united in purpose.

Implication: These passages strongly support Jesus’ divinity, preexistence, and equality with God, aligning with Trinitarianism’s view of the Son as fully God yet distinct from the Father. Unitarianism, which typically views Jesus as a human prophet, Messiah, or subordinate divine agent (e.g., an exalted creature), struggles to account for texts like John 1:1, John 20:28, and Colossians 2:9, which attribute full deity to Jesus. Unitarians might interpret “Son of God” or “Lord” as titles of agency or honor (e.g., Psalm 2:7, applied to kings), but this requires downplaying or reinterpreting explicit claims of deity.

3. The Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit’s nature and role further differentiate the two views.

• Divinity of the Holy Spirit:
  • Acts 5:3-4: Peter says to Ananias, “Why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit?… You have not lied to man but to God.” The Holy Spirit is equated with God.
  • 1 Corinthians 2:10-11: The Spirit “searches everything, even the depths of God,” and knows God’s thoughts, indicating divine omniscience.
  • Psalm 139:7-8 (cited in NT context): The Spirit’s omnipresence is affirmed: “Where shall I go from your Spirit?”
• Personal Attributes:
  • John 14:16-17: Jesus calls the Holy Spirit “another Helper” (parakletos), implying a personal role distinct from himself and the Father.
  • John 16:13-14: The Spirit “will guide you into all the truth… He will glorify me,” indicating personal actions like teaching and glorifying.
  • Romans 8:26-27: The Spirit “intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words,” suggesting a distinct, active role.
• Association with Father and Son:
  • Matthew 28:19: Jesus commands baptism “in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,” placing the Spirit alongside the Father and Son as coequal in divine authority.
  • 2 Corinthians 13:14: Paul’s benediction invokes “the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit,” suggesting the Spirit’s coequal role.

Implication: The Holy Spirit is depicted as divine (equal to God), personal (not a mere force), and distinct from the Father and Son. Trinitarianism accounts for this by viewing the Spirit as the third person of the Godhead. Unitarianism typically regards the Holy Spirit as God’s power or influence (e.g., citing Luke 1:35, where the Spirit is parallel to “the power of the Most High”), but this struggles to explain the Spirit’s personal actions (e.g., interceding, teaching) and explicit identification as God (Acts 5:3-4).

4. Relational Dynamics and Unity

The New Testament portrays the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit in dynamic relationship, often emphasizing their unity.

• John 14:9-11: Jesus says, “Whoever has seen me has seen the Father… I am in the Father and the Father is in me,” suggesting a mutual indwelling that preserves distinction yet affirms unity.
• John 15:26: Jesus says, “The Spirit of truth, who proceeds from the Father, he will bear witness about me,” showing the Spirit’s distinct role in relation to the Father and Son.
• John 16:14-15: Jesus says of the Spirit, “He will take what is mine and declare it to you. All that the Father has is mine,” indicating shared divine authority and essence.
• Ephesians 4:4-6: Paul speaks of “one Spirit… one Lord [Jesus]… one God and Father,” linking the three in the context of unity. Xxxx

Implication: These texts suggest a complex unity-in-distinction, where the Father, Son, and Spirit are distinct yet share divine attributes and authority. Trinitarianism interprets this as one divine essence in three persons. Unitarianism, emphasizing God as one person, often views Jesus and the Spirit as subordinate agents or manifestations of the Father’s will, but this requires reinterpreting texts that affirm their deity and distinctness.

5. Old Testament Context

The Old Testament provides background for New Testament claims, particularly regarding monotheism and hints of divine complexity.

• Genesis 1:2: The “Spirit of God” is active in creation, suggesting a distinct divine agency.
• Isaiah 9:6: The Messiah is called “Mighty God, Everlasting Father,” attributing divine titles to a future figure.
• Psalm 110:1: David says, “The Lord says to my Lord: ‘Sit at my right hand,’” which Jesus applies to himself (Matthew 22:41-45), implying a distinction within God’s identity.
• Isaiah 48:16: A speaker (possibly the Servant) says, “The Lord God has sent me, and his Spirit,” hinting at a triad of divine actors.

Implication: While the Old Testament emphasizes monotheism, it contains inklings of divine plurality (e.g., “Let us make man” in Genesis 1:26) that the New Testament expands upon. Trinitarianism sees these as consistent with a multi-personal God, while Unitarianism interprets them as poetic or referring to angels or God’s power.

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Analysis: Unitarianism vs. Trinitarianism

Unitarianism’s Biblical Case

Unitarianism argues that the Bible teaches God as one person (the Father), with Jesus as a human Messiah or exalted agent and the Holy Spirit as God’s active power.

• Strengths:
  • Affirms strict monotheism (Deuteronomy 6:4, Mark 12:29), aligning with Old Testament emphasis.
  • Cites texts suggesting Jesus’ subordination, e.g., John 14:28 (“The Father is greater than I”) and 1 Corinthians 15:28 (“The Son himself will be subjected to him who put all things in subjection under him”).
  • Interprets “Son of God” and “Lord” as titles of human or messianic authority (e.g., Psalm 2:7, Acts 2:36: “God has made him both Lord and Christ”).
  • Views the Holy Spirit as God’s power, citing Luke 1:35 and Acts 1:8, where the Spirit empowers without personal attributes.
• Weaknesses:
  • Struggles to account for texts explicitly calling Jesus “God” (John 1:1, John 20:28, Hebrews 1:8, Titus 2:13) and attributing divine roles like creation (John 1:3, Colossians 1:16).
  • Requires reinterpreting worship of Jesus (Revelation 5:12-14) and his claim to divine honor (John 5:23) as non-divine veneration.
  • Fails to explain the Holy Spirit’s personal actions (John 16:13-14, Romans 8:26) and explicit identification as God (Acts 5:3-4).
  • Downplays the relational dynamics in texts like John 14:9-11 and Matthew 28:19, which suggest distinction and equality among Father, Son, and Spirit.

Trinitarianism’s Biblical Case

Trinitarianism argues that the Bible reveals one God in three distinct, coequal persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

• Strengths:
  • Accounts for Jesus’ explicit divinity (John 1:1, Colossians 2:9, Hebrews 1:3, 8), divine prerogatives (Mark 2:5-7, John 5:22-23), and worship (Revelation 5:12-14).
  • Explains the Holy Spirit’s divinity (Acts 5:3-4, 1 Corinthians 2:10-11) and personal roles (John 14:16-17, Romans 8:26).
  • Harmonizes the distinction and unity of Father, Son, and Spirit in texts like Matthew 28:19, John 14:9-11, and 2 Corinthians 13:14.
  • Aligns with Old Testament monotheism (Deuteronomy 6:4) while accommodating hints of divine complexity (Psalm 110:1, Isaiah 48:16) fulfilled in the New Testament.
• Weaknesses:
  • Must address subordination texts (e.g., John 14:28, 1 Corinthians 15:28), typically explained as functional (relating to roles in redemption) rather than ontological (relating to essence).
  • The term “three persons in one essence” is not explicitly stated, requiring synthesis of multiple texts, which some might argue lacks directness compared to monotheistic affirmations.

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Conclusion

Based solely on an inductive study of the Bible, Trinitarianism has a greater claim to being biblical than Unitarianism. The New Testament consistently presents:

• One God (Deuteronomy 6:4, 1 Corinthians 8:4).
• Jesus as fully divine (John 1:1, Colossians 2:9, Hebrews 1:8), preexistent (John 17:5), and worthy of worship (Revelation 5:12-14), yet distinct from the Father (John 14:28, John 17:5).
• The Holy Spirit as divine (Acts 5:3-4), personal (John 16:13-14), and distinct from the Father and Son (Matthew 28:19, John 15:26).
• Relational unity among Father, Son, and Spirit (John 14:9-11, 2 Corinthians 13:14), suggesting one divine essence with distinct persons.

Unitarianism aligns well with Old Testament monotheism and some subordination texts but struggles to account for the New Testament’s clear affirmations of Jesus’ and the Holy Spirit’s divinity and personal distinction. Passages like John 1:1, John 20:28, Acts 5:3-4, and Matthew 28:19 are difficult to reconcile with a strictly Unitarian view without significant reinterpretation (e.g., treating “God” as a functional title or the Spirit as an impersonal force). Trinitarianism, while requiring synthesis to articulate “three persons in one essence,” better captures the full range of biblical data, including the complex interplay of unity and distinction among Father, Son, and Spirit.

Thus, an inductive reading of the Bible, particularly the New Testament, supports Trinitarianism as the more comprehensive and coherent explanation of God’s nature as revealed in Scripture.  

Meta AI's answer:

Based solely on biblical evidence and an inductive study, the question of whether Unitarianism or Trinitarianism has a greater claim to being biblical is complex. Both perspectives find support in various scriptural passages.

*Unitarian Perspective:*

- *Monotheism*: The Bible emphasizes God's unity (Deuteronomy 6:4, Isaiah 44:6).

- *Jesus' Subordination*: Some passages suggest Jesus' subordination to God (1 Corinthians 11:3, 15:28).

- *Distinct Roles*: Unitarians argue that the Father, Son, and Spirit have distinct roles but not necessarily distinct natures.

*Trinitarian Perspective:*

- *Divinity of Jesus*: Passages like John 1:1-14 and Colossians 2:9 affirm Jesus' divinity.

- *Divinity of the Spirit*: Acts 5:3-4 and 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 suggest the Spirit's divinity.

- *Co-Equal yet Distinct*: Trinitarians point to passages like Matthew 28:19 and 2 Corinthians 13:14, which imply a co-equal yet distinct relationship between the Father, Son, and Spirit.

*Inductive Study Considerations:*

- *Contextual Analysis*: Understanding the historical and literary context of key passages is crucial.

- *Thematic Consistency*: Examining the thematic consistency of biblical teachings on God's nature and the relationships between the Father, Son, and Spirit.

While both perspectives have biblical support, Trinitarianism might have a stronger claim due to the cumulative evidence from Christological and pneumatological passages. However, the complexity of biblical data allows for ongoing debate and interpretation.

ChatGPT's answer:

Excellent and very focused question — one that strikes at the core of Christian doctrinal development.

You're asking: If we rely only on the Bible itself, using inductive reasoning (letting the text lead to conclusions rather than imposing systems), and excluding later theology and Church tradition after the 1st century, then:

Which has a stronger claim to being biblical: Unitarianism (God is one person) or Trinitarianism (God is one essence in three persons)?

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🔍 First: What We Mean by “Inductive Biblical Study”

• No systematic theology imposed.

• Letting the text speak for itself.

• Considering all relevant passages.

• Looking at how God is revealed in both Old and New Testaments.

• Not using post-biblical terminology (e.g. “homoousios”), but testing whether the concepts are there.

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📘 What the Bible Clearly Teaches (Inductively)

1. There is One God

This is undeniable and constant across both Testaments.

• “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” (Deut. 6:4)

• “I am the Lord, and there is no other, besides me there is no God.” (Isaiah 45:5)

• “…there is no God but one.” (1 Cor. 8:4)

✅ Both Trinitarians and Unitarians affirm this.

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2. Jesus is Called God and Does Divine Things

• “In the beginning was the Word… and the Word was God.” (John 1:1)

• “My Lord and my God!” (John 20:28, Thomas to Jesus)

• “In him all the fullness of deity dwells bodily.” (Col. 2:9)

• Jesus forgives sins (Mark 2), receives worship (Matt. 28:17), and commands judgment (John 5:22–23)

This goes beyond a merely exalted prophet or agent. The biblical text attributes divine identity and prerogatives to Jesus.

➡️ Unitarianism struggles to explain these texts without extensive reinterpretation.

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3. The Holy Spirit Is Personal and Divine

• The Spirit speaks, grieves, teaches, intercedes — not impersonal force behavior.

• Acts 5:3–4 — lying to the Holy Spirit is lying to God.

• The Spirit is listed alongside the Father and Son:

  • “Baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matt. 28:19)

  • “The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit…” (2 Cor. 13:14)

➡️ The personhood and divine activity of the Spirit are strong indicators of more than mere metaphor or divine energy.

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🆚 Side-by-Side Summary

Doctrinal Point	Bible Affirms Clearly?	Unitarianism?	Trinitarianism?
Monotheism (One God)	✅ Yes	✅ Yes	✅ Yes
Jesus called God / Worshipped	✅ Yes	❌ Often reinterpreted	✅ Yes
Jesus shares divine functions (creation, judgment, etc.)	✅ Yes	❌ Harder to explain	✅ Yes
Spirit is personal and divine	✅ Implied strongly	❌ Generally denied	✅ Affirmed
Father, Son, Spirit distinguished yet united	✅ Yes	❌ Unity only, no distinction	✅ Central

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🧠 Conclusion: Which Is More Biblical on Inductive Grounds Alone?

👉 Based solely on inductive reading of Scripture, Trinitarianism has the stronger biblical claim.

• It accounts for all the data: one God, but three distinct persons who share divine identity and work.

• Unitarianism explains monotheism well, but struggles to handle the full deity of Christ and the personality of the Holy Spirit without reinterpreting or flattening clear texts.

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⚠️ Important Caveat

• The term “Trinity” and the formalized doctrine develop later.

• But the raw materials — the building blocks of Trinitarian belief — are clearly present in the biblical text itself.

So even before post-apostolic theology or creeds (like Nicaea), an inductive reading supports something very close to Trinitarianism — not Unitarianism.

Would you like a breakdown of specific passages that are central to this argument, or how early Christian writers interpreted these before the Council of Nicaea?

Duck AI's answer:

When evaluating Unitarianism and Trinitarianism based solely on biblical evidence and an inductive study of the Bible, several key points can be considered for each perspective:

Unitarianism

Strict Monotheism: Unitarianism emphasizes the oneness of God, aligning closely with the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4), which states, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one." This foundational verse is often cited to support a strict monotheistic view.

Jesus as a Human Figure: Unitarianism typically views Jesus as a prophet or a significant human being, but not as divine in the same sense as God the Father. Verses such as John 14:28, where Jesus says, "the Father is greater than I," are often interpreted to support this view.

Lack of Explicit Trinitarian Language: Unitarianism points out that the term "Trinity" does not appear in the Bible, and that the explicit formulation of the Trinity developed later in church history.

Trinitarianism

Divine Nature of Christ: Trinitarianism holds that Jesus is fully divine and fully human. Key verses such as John 1:1 ("In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God") and Colossians 2:9 ("For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form") are often cited to support the divinity of Christ.

The Holy Spirit: Trinitarians argue that the Holy Spirit is also fully God, as seen in passages like Acts 5:3-4, where lying to the Holy Spirit is equated with lying to God.

Baptismal Formula: The Great Commission in Matthew 28:19, where Jesus commands to baptize "in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit," is interpreted as evidence of a triune understanding of God.

Conclusion

The determination of which view has a greater claim to being biblical often depends on the interpretive lens through which one reads the Scriptures. Unitarianism emphasizes a strict monotheism and the humanity of Jesus, while Trinitarianism emphasizes the divinity of Christ and the Holy Spirit, supported by various New Testament texts.

Ultimately, individuals may arrive at different conclusions based on their readings of the same biblical texts, and the debate between these two perspectives continues to be a significant theological discussion within Christianity.