When faced with the scriptural statement that God is one, trinitarian Christians will sometimes point to the use of the Hebrew word “Elohim” in Genesis 1:1,26 & 27. They assert that because Elohim is a plural noun used with singular verbs for God that it indicates that God is both singular and plural. In addition, they teach that the combination of God saying “let us make man in our image” in verse 26 (a plural reference) and “God created man in his own image” in verse 27 (a singular reference) demonstrates their point that God is a trinity, both three and one. They view it as evidence that the trinity is clearly taught in the bible. However, if we look at these assertions more deeply, we will see that Read More
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What about Titus 2:13?
It seems that Titus 2:13 is one of the go-to verses that is used to show that Jesus is called ‘God’ in the bible. Usually, the phrase “Our great God and Savior Jesus Christ” is quoted as the defining part of the verse. Of course, if you take this trinitarian argument at face value, you might indeed concede that Jesus is called ‘God’ in this verse. However, like most trinitarian proof texts, there is always more than meets the eye. I will be taking a closer look at this verse, and we will explore the issues of translation, Greek interpretation, and context and consistency with other scriptures. Emphasizing one aspect of the discussion will only lead to a skewed view. So, let’s get into it. Read More
What about 1 John 5 v7?
Is the “trinity” in the bible? I say “No”, but many Christians say “Yes, it is”. One of the main verses that they refer to is 1 John 5:7. Does this verse speak of the trinity? Have you ever looked up this verse in your bible? This is a very intriguing verse because it is missing from some bibles and present in others. Did you know that? Do you know why that is? Some say that Satan is trying to corrupt the scriptures by removing this verse from modern bibles. Others say that the verse is a forgery that was added to the scriptures. So, which is it? And furthermore, what does the verse actually say? Does it really define or support the trinity? We’re going to look at all of these questions. Let’s dive in. Read More
Common sense issues with trinity doctrine
I have had discussions recently with people who believe in the trinity doctrine. What I have noticed is that most persons assume and some assert that the trinity is in the bible. I have even listened to debates where one side defends the trinity by quoting verses in the bible, and the other side debunks the trinity by also quoting verses in the bible. Oftentimes, both side quote the very same verses. Difference in meaning, interpretation, and text are often highlighted and argued. However, one thing that is often missing from discussions on the topic of the trinity is common sense reasoning. Reason and logic are present and contend in any discussion, but simple common sense is usually missing. For me, this is where I start. I want to express and share some of what I consider to be common sense thoughts on the trinity. Let’s get into this. Read More
Opposing Opinions: Responding to trinitarian evidences
Several months ago, I asked a trinitarian family member why he believed in the trinity, since no “trinity” or “triune God” or “God the Son” or “God the Holy Spirit” are in the bible. He then asserted that God is triune, Jesus is God and the Holy Spirit is God. My follow-up was to ask for scripture references that confirm his assertions. He provided my with a short list with brief comments, and I also gave my response, which was more lengthy. Unfortunately the dialog didn’t get too far as my response was met with dismissal, and I was told that I was “splitting hairs to prove a point”. Thinking about it, I thought it might be beneficial to share my responses on my blog. Will others think my reasoning is unworthy of consideration or valuable for understanding the truth? Let opposing opinions be heard. Read More