Understanding the Trinity

Introduction: Have you ever tried to explain the Bible doctrine of the Trinity? Human words do not seem to be adequate.
But with the inspiration and illumination of the Holy Spirit who both inspired writers in the past and illumines us in the present we can get a better grasp on this most important subject.
 
Let’s break it down into 3 brief sections:
 

1. Where are some references in regards to the Trinity? (Eph 2:18) – “For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.”

“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen” (2Cor13:14).

“And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Mark 1:9-11).

Clearly these Scriptures confirm the biblical doctrine of the Trinity. Please note: The trinity does NOT teach that there are THREE different Gods; instead, it reveals that there is ONE GOD in three different persons – roles – all being co-equal in power and authority!

2. What practical applications can we draw from the Trinity? – One answer is prayer.

*God the Father is addressed by our Lord Jesus – God the Son – though they are co-equal. “After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name” (Matt 6:9). This is called the model prayer.

*God the Son is our “Great High Priest” who ever lives to intercede for us. “Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us” (Rom 8:34).

Jesus Christ’s High Priestly prayer is found in John Chapter 17 where He prays for Himself, His disciples, and all believers.  

*God the Holy Spirit helps us to pray. “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God” (Rom 8:26-27).

These selected verses verify the different roles played by the Trinity in the matter of prayer for the CHRISTian.

Conclusion: Last but not least, the Great Commission alludes to the Trinity. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost” (Matt 28:18).

To deny the Trinity is to deny a major Bible doctrine. But to suggest there are three Gods is to miss the mark entirely.
Keeping the proper interpretational method throughout the Bible by comparing Scripture with Scripture one can conclude that God in His Sovereignty chose to use three different roles in redeeming mankind and thus glorifying His name.
 
Love y’all,
Pastor Randy Reese