The Trinity
As a doctrine and a liturgical formula, the Trinity is not developed in the Bible, nor are the distinctions between the three “persons” always clearly articulated. Nevertheless, the concept of God as Father, Son, and Spirit is present.
As a doctrine and a liturgical formula, the Trinity is not developed in the Bible, nor are the distinctions between the three “persons” always clearly articulated. Nevertheless, the concept of God as Father, Son, and Spirit is present.
Worship leaders should clearly note that New Testament Worship is initiated through the will of the Father, the work of the Son, and the agency of the Spirit. It is the Triune God who energizes the human (and human community of worshipers) to worship. He enables worship through the power His Spirit, through the work of Christ. He receives that worship. He is glorified by that worship. He is the beginning, the means, the object, and the end of all true worship. As Paul writes, “For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Let it be!” (Ro 11:36-12:1). True worship is sourced, energized and culminated in the Triune-God revealed through Jesus Christ and the Holy Christian Scriptures.
Athanasius (c. 296-373) was a young presbyter in the Alexandrian church during the ecumenical council in Nicea (325).