Counsel #2 — The Godhead (Trinity)

Picture: Counsel #2 — The Godhead (Trinity)CCL 12.1

Christianity affirms one God, existing eternally as three distinct persons: Father, Son (Jesus Christ), and Holy Spirit, a perfect unity of character and purpose. God is timeless, all-powerful, all-knowing, and ever-present. He's infinitely beyond human understanding yet reveals Himself to us through His creation and actions. As the embodiment of love, God deserves and longs for all our worship, adoration, and service.CCL 12.2

Unlike the religions surrounding them, the Israelites believed in one God only.^{[9]Deuteronomy 4:35; 6:4} The New Testament echoes this belief.^{[10]Mark 12:29-32; John 17:3} While this emphasis on a singular God may initially appear to contradict the doctrine of the Trinity, it instead underscores the core principle of monotheism: the existence of one supreme Being, as opposed to a pantheon of deities.CCL 12.3

While the Old Testament doesn't explicitly mention the Trinity, it hints at a multiplicity within God Himself. Jesus' arrival offered a clearer picture. John's Gospel introduces God the Father, God the Son (Jesus),^{[11]John 1:1-4: This passage speaks of the Word (Logos) who was with God and was God. The Word is then identified with Jesus in verse 14. This establishes the divinity of Christ.} and the Holy Spirit^{[12]John 14:16, 17: Jesus promises to send the "Helper," the Holy Spirit, who proceeds from the Father. This clarifies the distinct personality of the Holy Spirit and speaks of a triune God.} - a unity of three eternal persons, threefold powers in the heavenly world.^{[13]https://egwwritings.org/read?panels=p14377.6(14377.7),p1965.55,p14066.10552011&index=0}CCL 12.4

“Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one!” Deuteronomy 6:4 NKJVCCL 12.5

“The Godhead was stirred with pity for the race, and the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit gave Themselves to the working out of the plan of redemption.” Ellen White in Counsels on Health, p. 222CCL 12.6

Reflect: How can the concept of a loving and relational God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit) impact your prayer life?CCL 12.7