One of the most controversial subjects throughout the history of the Church has been the Godhead. There are many differing views throughout Christendom the most popular of which is the trinity doctrine. Just about every Christian acknowledges the existence of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, however how they identify them differs depending upon the denomination and/or fellowship.
Rather than going into all the differing views, we will go directly to scripture to identify who the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are in identity. My goal is to make this as simple as possible by using scripture rather than relying on the words of Theologians who often times can over explain and spiritualize away plain bible truths.
One mistake that is often made in trying to understand the Godhead is in proof texting to support a certain Godhead doctrine. Many will cherry pick certain texts as foundational scriptures to support their views. However, when we set a proper scriptural foundation for the Godhead, then other verses that many people use to support certain traditional doctrines will be better understood.
Let's begin with words from John the Baptist regarding the Son of God.
John 3:33-36 (KJV)
.33He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal that God is true.34For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God: for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.35The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.36He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
This is a powerful passage of scripture and one that is very important to understand as it relates to the words that Jesus spoke while on earth. There is a false concept in much of Christendom that when Jesus spoke on earth that somehow it's distinctive in regards to absolute truth from when He speaks pre and post resurrection. What do I mean by this? Let's use John 17:3 as an example:
"3And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent."
Whenever this scripture gets presented to trinitarian's they quickly counter that Jesus spoke this is as a man and not as divinity, so basically inferring that this statement is not absolute truth but rather a conditional statement based on Jesus circumstances of being on earth as a man. The problem with this theory is that it is totally unbiblical and unfounded in the scriptures. It makes Jesus look to have a split personality ora ventriloquist. Remember, Jesus never told a lie.
John 14:6 (KJV)
6Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the TRUTH, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
Jesus said that He is the TRUTH! He said this while on earth as a man meaning this was a present tense statement. Jesus all of a sudden didn't become more truthful because He was resurrected and ascended up to heaven. This statement here by Jesus means that He absolutely never told a lie and never will or even a half truth or conditional truth. Basically trinitarian's in regards to John 17:3 accuse Jesus of telling a conditional truth which in reality is a lie. So how dowe refute trinitarian's in regards to their understanding and accusation that Jesus only spoke a conditional truth based on circumstances in John 17:3?
Well let's go to the text in John 3:33-36 and read this telling passage that is spoken by John the Baptist.
Verse 33, John says that whoever receives the testimony of Jesus has set his seal that God is true. Everything thing Jesus spoke is His testimony including the statement that the Father is the one true God (John 17:3). When we deny Jesus plain words that the Father is the one true God we do not have the seal of God, thereby making Jesus and God liars. John the Baptist says here that God is true and Jesus in John 17:3 says that the Father is the one true God. The source of all truth is the Father.
Verse 34, remember, even though Jesus was in the likeness of sinful flesh He was given the Spirit of Jehovah without measure. Let's take a brief look at the qualities of Jehovah's Spirit:
Isaiah 11:1-3 (ASV)
1And there shall come forth a shoot out of the stock of Jesse, and a branch out of his roots shall bear fruit.2And the Spirit of Jehovah shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of Jehovah.3And his delight shall be in the fear of Jehovah; and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither decide after the hearing of his ears;
So without measure Jesus was given Jehovah's Spirit of understanding, counsel, might, knowledge, wisdom and the fear of Jehovah. So when Jesus spoke on earth about any subject it was absolute truth forever as He had Jehovah's Holy Spirit without measure. Remember, Jesus was one singular being here on earth and He was a mysterious blending of divinity and humanity. He didn't speak some words as a human and some word's as divinity but He spoke all words as the Son of God/Son of man who was both human and divine as one singular being with one will. Jesus submitted His will to the Father.
Back to John 3:33-36, in verse 35 we see a description of a real Father-Son relationship between Jehovah and His Son Jehoshua and the love that the Father has for Him. The Father loves the Son so much that He gave all things to His Son Jehoshua. He gave the Son His self existent life (John 5:26), He put all things under the Son's feet (1 Corinthians 15:24-28). He gave the Son authority to execute judgment (John 5:27). He was given the headship of the Church (Colossians 1:18). He was given the Father's name Jehovah by inheritance (Hebrews 1:4). The Father appointed to the Son a Kingdom (Luke 22:29).
We are already seeing the Father-Son relationship of Jesus and Jehovah here in this study. Jesus cleary said that His Father is the only true God. Let's see if others confirm this even though the Son of God doesn't need man's confirmation. Let's hear from Paul the apostle:
Ephesians 4:4-6 (KJV)
4There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;5One Lord, one faith, one baptism,6One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.
1 Corinthians 8;4-7 (KJV)
4As concerning therefore the eating of those things that are offered in sacrifice unto idols, we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is none other God but one.5For though there be that are called gods, whether in heaven or in earth, (as there be gods many, and lords many,)6But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.7Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge: for some with conscience of the idol unto this hour eat it as a thing offered unto an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled.
1 Timothy 2:5 (KJV)
5For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.
1 Timothy 6:14-16 (KJV)
14That thou keep this commandment without spot, unrebukeable, until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ:15Which in his times he shall shew, who is the blessed and only Potentate, the King of kings, and Lord of lords;16Who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting. Amen.
How do we know that verse 16 applies to the Father? Because men and women saw the Son, no man according to Jesus has seen the Father:
John 5:45-46 (KJV)
.45It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned of the Father, cometh unto me.46Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he which is of God, he hath seen the Father.
John 1:18 (NASB)
18 No one has seen God at any time; the only begotten God who is in the bosom of the Father, He has explained Him.
Remember, Jesus is incapable of lying so He says no man has seen the Father we must believe Him or else imply that He is lying.
Let's see what Apostle Peter has to say:
1Peter 1:1-3 (KJV)
1Peter, an apostle of Jesus Christ, to the strangers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia,2Elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father, through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ: Grace unto you, and peace, be multiplied.3Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
How about James, who does he say is God?
James 3:9 (KJV)
9Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.
James identifies God as being the Father, which is consistent with Jesus, Paul and Peter. Does James believe in a trinity god or in one God?
James 2:19 (KJV)
19Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.
James makes a statement that should shed light on the truth about God. Most Christians today are not at the same level of understanding as the devils concerning God and the undeniably truth that God is one. The knowledge that God is one was automatic by Christians during the Apostolic years. James even tells them that this knowledge is no proof that they are living according to God's will. He says this because even the devils have this simple and plain belief. There is no wiggle room to squeeze a trinity out of this.
The greek word for "one" is "heis" (Strongs 1520) and means "a primary numeral, one, only, other, some".
Jesus, Paul, Peter and James all agreed that God is one and that this one God is the Father. Even the devils agree with them. Let's go to a revealing conversation that Jesus had with a scribe in Mark chapter 12.
Mark 12:28-34 (KJV)
28And one of the scribes came, and having heard them reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all?29And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord:30And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.31And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these.32And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other but he:33And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.34And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And no man after that durst ask him any question.
The scribe ask Jesus in verse 28 what was the greatest commandment and look what Jesus tells him in verses 30-31
"The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love theLord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment"
Jesus doesn't qoute the 4th commandment but actually qoutes the Shema which is not even in the 10 Commandments. Of course the Shema directly correlates to the first four commandments. The Shema is found in Deuteronomy 6:4-5. It is very telling that the commandment that Jesus says is the most important is not even a part of the 10 Commandments. When Jesus states something as being the most important commandment then we better have a desire to rightly divide what this most important commandment means. Let's continue to analyze the conversation.
In verse 31, Jesus then talks about the second greatest commandment which is love for our neighbor, and again this is a commandment not directly from the 10 commandments but actually comes from Leviticus 19:18. This second commandment directly correlates to the last 6 commandments of the 10. Jesus tells the scribe there is none greater than these.
So, according to Jesus the knowledge that God is one is the most important commandment there is. Notice that Jesus doesn't say three in one or one in three. The greek word for one is heis and means "a primary numeral, one, only, other, some". Does Jesus really mean three in one or one in three? Let's find out and continue in the conversation that Jesus is having with the scribe.
In verse 32, the scribe congratulates Jesus stating that He has said the truth. Look/listen very closely to what the scribe says next:
"for there is ONE God; and there is none other but HE"
The scribe understands that God is one and that this one God is a "HE" not a they or a them. This confirms the singularity of God in terms of the Almighty.
The scribe then goes on to say:
"And to love HIM with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength"
Notice the scribe says we are to love "HIM" (the one God) not they or them.
If the scribes understanding of Jesus words were incorrect then this is the perfect time for the Saviour to correct him. Let's see if He does as we goto verse 34:
"And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God."
The word discreetly comesfrom the Greek word "nounechos" (Strongs 3562) and means "in a mind-having way, i.e. prudently, discreetly"
Jesus saw that the scribe answered prudently (wisely). Far from correcting the scribe, Jesus actually commends him for stating that God is one (singular) and that God is a He not a they or them. Jesus then tells the scribe that he is not far from the kingdom of God. What would Jesus tell a trinitarian if a trinitarian answered Jesus and said that God is three in one and that God is a they or them? Would Jesus tell them they are far from the kingdom of God? It's something to ponder.
Satan has tried to twist the truth of God's word. In today's mainstream Christian world, those who answer like the scribe, that God is one and a He not a they or them, would be told by modern Christendom that they are far from the kingdom of God. Oh how times have changed!
1 Corinthians 15:24-28 (KJV)
24Then cometh the end, when he shall have delivered up the kingdom to God, even the Father; when he shall have put down all rule and all authority and power.25For he must reign, till he hath put all enemies under his feet.26The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.27For he hath put all things under his feet. But when he saith all things are put under him, it is manifest that he is excepted, which did put all things under him.28And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all.
Verse 24, This is another passage that shows us that the Father is God and that He is above all including Jesus who is His Son. In context, this passage is in reference to the end of the millennium as Jesus will reign for a thousand years (Revelation 20:6) before the coming of New Jerusalem (Revelation 21).
After the conclusion of the millennium and the subsequent destruction of the wicked, Jesus will "deliver up the kingdom to God, even the Father." Paul says that God is the Father and that He will be the ultimate authority in the new heaven and new earth. This will happen after Jesus puts down all rule and authority and power. We know this happens at His third advent.
Verse 25, Jesus will reign in the millennium and will reign until He puts all enemies under His feet. This is taken from Psalm 110:1. Remember, this can't happen until the devil, his angels and the rebellious resurrection wicked are destroyed. This doesn't happen until after Jesus reigns with us saints for a thousand years in heaven.
Verse 26, death will be the final enemy destroyed which of course takes place after the millennium so noted in Revelation 20:14. So, in context we know this passage to be speaking of the end of the millennium. Death will be vanquished as the resurrected wicked rise from the graves and are judged and then consumed in the lake of fire.
Verse 27, God the Father put all things under Jesus feet (Psalm 8:6). Of course, God the Father is the exception and is not under anyone including Jesus (Ephesians 4:4-6). Paul says it is manifest (evident, certain) that God the Father is the exception to the rule that all things are under His Son's feet.
Verse 28, when all things are subdued unto the Son Jesus Christ at the conclusion of the millennium, when He will go forth as in the day of battle (Zechariah 14:3) to destroy Gog and Magog, then He (Jesus) will Himself be subject to Him (the Father) that put all things under him (Jesus).
Why will Jesus be subject unto the Father that put all things under Him (Jesus)?
Paul tells us:
"that God may be all in all"
The Father will be all in all in eternity in the new earth. That means He will be the ultimate authority and ruler in the new heaven and new earth. No one can claim authority over Almighty Jehovah as His Son Jesus states in John 10:29 and John 14:28 respectively:
"My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father’s hand."
" Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because I said, I go unto the Father: for my Father is greater than I."
The word greater is rendered from the Greek word "meizon" (Strongs 3187) and means "larger, (literally or figuratively, specially, in age): - elder, greater (-est), more."
Jesus says that His Father is greater (older, larger, more) than all and includes Himself in this statement as all means all. Paul confirms this same thing in Ephesians 4:4-6, 1 Corinthians 8:6 and 1 Corinthians 11:3.
Jesus will subject the Kingdom back to the Father so that God who is the Father will be all in all in rule, dominion and authority. All comes from the Greek word "pas" strongs 3956 and means "throughly, whole, whosoever and whatsoever"
Father alone is described as the Living God:
Revelation 7:2-3 (KJV)
2And I saw another angel ascending from the east, having the seal of the living God: and he cried with a loud voice to the four angels, to whom it was given to hurt the earth and the sea,3Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads.
How do we know that the living God referenced in verse 2 of Revelation refers to the Father alone? Let's go to Revelation 14:1 to see what is contained in the seal of the living God:
Revelation 14:1 (KJV)
1And I looked, and, lo, a Lamb stood on the mount Sion, and with him an hundred forty and four thousand, having his Father’s name written in their foreheads.
Remember, the 144,000 were the servants in Revelation 7 that were about to be sealed with the seal of the living God before the winds of strife were released on the earth. Fast forward to Revelation 14 in which now they are victorious and look what was contained in that seal:
"having his Father’s name written in their foreheads"
No trinity here just the Father's name. So we must conclude that the Father is the Living God. There is more scripture to support the Father being the living God. As we go to these scriptures we will also see the truth about Jesus identity.
Matthew 26:63-64 (KJV)
63But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God.64Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said:
The living God is obviously the Father as Christ is His Son. Jesus proclaimed Himself as the Son of God. The Sonship that Christ claimed was a divine Sonship not an adoptive one. We know this because in verse 65 of Matthew 26, the high priest says:
"Then the high priest rent his clothes, saying, He hath spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses? behold, now ye have heard his blasphemy."
Christ claim of Sonship brought a charge of blasphemy against Him by the High Priest. This proves that the Jews understood this claim of Sonship by Jesus tobe a literal divine Sonship. If Christ was only making a claim of adoptive or metaphorical Sonship then it would not have brought a charge of blasphemy against Jesus because the Jews considered themselves to be sons of God in an adoptive sense.
Also, important in this passage is the literal Father-Son relationship between Jehovah and Jesus. So if Jesus is the Son of the living God then obviously the Father is the living God as attested to in scripture elsewhere. We clearly see the identity of the Father in that He is the one true living God. This should be without controversy as it was understood by the Jews attested to by Jesus andthe apostles and even the devils.
We are now delving into the identity of who Jesus is. In the passage above we read how Jesus made the rightful claim to be the Son of the living God. Let's go to another passage where Jesus being the Son of the living God is asserted as the foundation of the Church.
Matthew 16:13-20 (KJV)
13 When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?
14 And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets.
15 He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
16 And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
17 And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.
18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.
19 And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
20 Then charged he his disciples that they should tell no man that he was Jesus the Christ.
Peter makes the declaration that once and for all determines the foundation of Christianity. When Jesus asked the disciples, who do men say that I am? They responded with a number of speculations. When Jesus turned to them for their view, Peter answers "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God."
Notice Jesus response to Peter, "Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven."
When we truly believe that Jesus is the Christ (anointed one of Jehovah) and the Son of the living God, then that means the Father has revealed it to us. So many today in Christendom have lost sight of this and refuse to believe that Jesus is the literal Son of Jehovah God. They preach another Jesus and the implication of their denial of the literal Sonship of Christ is that the Father has not revealed to them the truth. Flesh and blood has revealed to them "another" Jesus. Whether it is a trinity Jesus, tri theism Jesus, Unitarian Jesus, a created Jesus, a Jesus who is all 3 (oneness), it denies the literal Sonship of Christ. The bible is very clear and very serious about denying the literal Sonship of Christ. We will get to that later. Let's continue looking at this passage.
In verse 18, Jesus tells Peter that upon this rock the Church will be built upon. What rock was Jesus talking about? The word for "Peter" in the greek is "Petros" and means "a piece of a rock". However this isn't the rock Jesus was talking about, when Jesus uttered the words "upon this rock" he didn't mean Petros "Peter" as the greek word for "rock" is "Petra" and means "a mass of rock". So in this verse there are two rocks mentioned, the first one is Peter (Petros) and the second one is rock (Petra). So the Church was not to be built upon Petros (Peter) but rather upon Petra (Rock) which is Jesus Christ. Jesus was talking about himself being the Petra (rock) that the Church would be built upon.
Most Christians would have no problem acknowledging Jesus being the Rock (foundation) of the Church. However it isn't just that Jesus is the foundation of the Church, it is a divine knowledge of His identity that is the rock that the Church would be built upon. It is Peter's confession that is the rock upon which the Church would be built. His confession is that Jesus is the Christ and the Son of the living God. Most of the Church has the first part right, however they error badly on the second part which is that Jesus is the Son of the living God. This Jesus rarely gets taught in the Churches of Christendom. When is the last time you heard a message from the pulpit about the Sonship of Christ? It almost never happens. Why is this?
Because the Churches have left the foundation that Jesus affirmed, which is His Sonship. They removed the Sonship of Christ as their foundation and instituted a faulty foundation built on sand called the "trinity" doctrine. The proof of the trinity doctrine being a false foundation is the confusion it has generated in the world of Christendom. You can ask 10 Christians to explain the trinity doctrine and you could easily get 9 different versions explained to you.
Why is this? It's because the trinity doctrine is convoluted and unbiblical. It breeds confusion and remember Jehovah isn't the author of confusion. The word for confusion in Hebrew and Greek is "Babel", "Babylon". Remember in Revelation 17, it says the Great Whore has "Mystery" written on her forehead. If the Great Whore is the Catholic Churh then it makes sense that the doctrine she claims as hers is called a "Mystery". Catholicism and Protestantism call the trinity doctrine "the Mystery".
1 Corinthians 14:33 (KJV)
33 For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.
By theologians and pastors own admission, the trinity doctrine is impossible to understand and explain.
Revelation 17:5 (KJV)
5 And upon her forehead was a name written,Mystery, Babylon The Great, The Mother Of Harlots And Abominations Of The Earth.
The Catholic Church admits the trinity as their central doctrine from which all other doctrines come from. Let's get back to the text in Matthew 16:13-20.
So, we know that Jesus says that Peter's confession that Jesus is the Christ and the Son of the living God is the Rock that the Church will be built upon. What does Jesus say in verse 18 about the Church that is built on this Rock, that Jesus is the Son of God? Jesus says something very telling and encouraging to those of us who believe in the literal Sonship of Christ. Jesus says:
"and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it"
Wow! A powerful statement from our Jehovah Jesus Christ. The gates of hell may prevail against Babylon and her harlot daughters who have all abandoned the Rock of Christianity which is that Jesus is the Son of God but it won't prevail against the true Church. This true Church believes that Jesus is the Son of the living God. Is it any wonder that this precious truth is being restored in these last days whereas many of the trinitarian Churches are joining the ecumenical movement which is led by the Catholic Church. It only makes sense that the trinitarian churches are going back to Rome as that is the Church that gave birth to the trinity doctrine as we know it, circa 381 AD.
Let's look at what John the beloved disciple says about those who believe in the Sonship of Christ:
1 John 4:15 (KJV)
15 Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.
This passage goes along perfectly with what Jesus told Peter in Matthew 16:17 when Peter confessed Jesus Sonship:
"for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven."
It's very simple, those who confess that Jesus is the Son of God have been revealed this by Father. They also have the Father dwelling in them which is the Holy Spirit. According to Jesus and John, those then who don't believe and confess that Jesus is the Son of God don't have the Holy Spirit dwelling in them.
According to Jesus and John, those then who don't believe and confess that Jesus is the Son of God don't have the Holy Spirit dwelling in them. Very sobering when you think about it as most of Christendom denies the literal Sonship of Christ. When they say that Jesus is the Son of God they don't really mean it. Many believe it is just metaphorical (tri theism) or they believe He is the Son of God in some mysterious eternal generation from the Father and that He is consubstantial with the Father as one being (trinitarianism). These concepts are huge error and deny Christ's literal Sonship. There are other errors taught about Christ such as he was created (Jehovah Witnesses) or not pre existent and His origin was at Bethlehem (Unitarian).
Also, in this passage we see that the Father again is identified as the Living God. Jesus is His Son. It's very simple yet most of Christendom has turned this simple and beautiful truth about the Father and Son into a confusing mystery.
The evidence is overwhelming in support of the Father-Son relationship of Jesus and Jehovah. Let's go to what is likely the most well known verse to the world at large.
John 3:16-18 (KJV)
16For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.17For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.18He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
Here just like many other passages the Father is refrenced as God. The Father so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son. Here again, we see the Father-Son relationship between Jehovah and Jesus as the Father is called God and Jesus is called His only begotten Son. In verse 16 and 17, we read that God sent and gave us His only begotten Son. This could only mean that Jehovah had a Son to send and give to the world prior to the Son actually being sent and given. It is eveident that Jesus was God's Son before coming to the world. This scripture proves two things, first that Jesus is pre-existent and two, that Jesus was God's only begotten Son before being born in Bethlehem.
The Son did not win the Father's love for sinners but came because God loved sinners. This passage shows the Father's love for us something the tri theism doctrine attempts to destroy with their denial of Christ literal Sonship. Jehovah God loved sinners so much that He gave the most precious and costly gift imaginable, His only begotten Son. Let's read the words of Jesus beloved disciple John:
1 John 4:9-10 (KJV)
9In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him.10Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.
This is absolute proof of the Father's love for us, in that He gave the precious gift of His dear begotten Son. As humans we can somewhat related to this, in that it would be heartwrenching to give up our kids for the good of someone else. The Father sending His begotten Son to be the mercyseat for our sins is concrete evidence of His love for us. John defines love as God first loving us not us loving God and His love for us is manifested in that He sent His only begotten Son that we might live through Him (our new birth experience and eternal life) and that we would have a faithful High Priest that forgives our sins.
What does it mean when it says Jesus is God's only begotten Son? Let's go to the greek definition of "only begotten"
The phrase "only begotten" comes from the Greek word "monogenes" (Strongs 3439) and means "only-born, i.e. sole child: - only (begotten, child)"
A pretty straightforward definition of what only begotten means. We know this can't apply to Jesus birth at Bethlehem because John 3;16-17 and 1 John 4:9-10 clearly state 4 times that God sent and gave His only begotten Son to the world which tells us that God had a Son to send to the world. This sending of His only begotten Son to the world was an action that preceded Him being actually delivered to the world as realized in the immaculate conception. God had a Son to send to the world proving Christ pre-existent Sonship. If Christ only became the Son of God at His immaculate conception and/or virgin birth then the 4 times that state God sent/gave His Son make no sense.
These scriptures in John and 1 John only make sense if God already had a Son prior to the immaculate conception and virgin birth of Jesus. This what makes God's love for us manifested in that He gave us something that was dear and precious to Him as Jesus had daily been the Father's delight as told in Proverbs 8;30:
"Then I was by him, as a master workman; And I was daily his delight, Rejoicing always before him"
When reading the above verse, we can see how by giving His Son, the Father's love was manifested towards us. Jehovah God had a preexisting relationship with Jesus Christ before He sent the Son down to the world.
Let's go back to John 3:16-18:
We see in verse 17, that the purpose of God sending His only begotten Son was so that the world might be saved. The Father offers eternal life through His Son Jesus Christ. This is the only provision for eternal life. In verse 18, Jesus says:
"He that believeth on him is not condemned"
What do we have to believe in order not to be condemned? It's very simple, lets go to scripture:
1 John 4;15 (KJV)
15Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God.
It is confession that Jesus is the Son of God that prevents us from being condemned. To the contrary as noted above, confession that Jesus is the Son of God gives us the Father's Spirit within us.
It is our faith that Jesus is God's literal only begotten Son that allows us to overcome the world.
1 John 5:4-5 (KJV)
4For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.5Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?
So the faith that overcometh the world is the faith that believeth Jesus is the Son of God.
The word faith is rendered from the Greek word "pistis" (Strongs 4102) and means "persuasion, i.e. credence; moral conviction (of religious truth, or the truthfulness of God or a religious teacher), especially reliance upon Christ for salvation; abstractly, constancy in such profession; by extension, the system of religious (Gospel) truth itself: - assurance, belief, believe, faith, fidelity."
The above definition of faith is more than just mental ascent of knowledge but rather being persuaded and having constancy in that which you are persuaded of. Faith is have fidelity (loyalty) to the thing, concept or person you express belief in. Faith is being assured of the very thing, concept or person that you say you believe in. While confession is an outward verbal expression, faith is an inward assurance and persuasion.
We must be persuaded and assured that Jesus is truly the Son of God in order to overcome the world.
Let's go to the greek definition of believeth. Believeth comes from the Greek word "pisteuo" (Strongs 4100) which itself comes from the word "pistis" (Faith) which we just went over in the preceding paragraphs.
The word "pisteuo" means "to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to,.a person or thing), i.e. credit; by implication, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well being to Christ): - believe, commit (to trust), put in trust with."
We are to entrust our spiritual well being in the truth and belief that Jesus is the Son of God. Belief is not just a verbal expression or mental ascent in knowledge but rather it is a committing to the truth that Jesus really is the begotten Son of God. Bible belief equals committment. This destroys the false teaching that mere verbal expression qualifies one to be a Christian. When we believe that Jesus is the Son of God, we entrust our spiritual well being to this truth.
Let's go back to verse 18 of John 3, lets read the second part of that verse:
"but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God."
This verse here warns of denying the literal Sonship of Christ. If you deny this you forfeit eternal life, it's that serious. Those who deny the Sonship of Christ are condemned says Jesus. They hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
The word "name" comes from the Greek word "onoma" (Strongs 3686) and means "a name, authority, character: - called, surname".
By denying Jesus Sonship you hath denied His true Character as Jesus Sonship is central to His identity. It's who He is and it's how He has authority. Jesus Sonship gives Him inheritance and part of this inheritance is the authority bestowed upon Him by His Father Jehovah.
Matthew 28:18 (KJV)
18And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
John 3:35 (KJV)
35The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.
Hebrews 1:8 (KJV)
8But unto the Son he saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of thy kingdom.
Not believing that Jesus is the only true begotten Son of God denies His name, character, of which Jesus Sonship is central (Matthew 16:13-20, 1, John 5:13). It also denies His authority, of which His Sonship is also central (John 3:35, Hebrews 1:8).
If you don't think believing that Jesus, being the literal only begotten Son of God is salvational, even though Jesus attests to that very thing, I leave you the words of John the Baptist (John 3:36):
"He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.
Your Church membership won't save you neither will your Pastor's or ministers.
What is the Church supposed to be unified in?
Ephesians 4:11-13 (KJV)
11And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;12For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:13Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
Do you see what we as the Church are to be united in? The faith and knowledge of the Son of God. Infact, that is precisely the reason why the Church has been given apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers. Those who hold any of the above offices are to bring the Church into unity in the faith and knowledge of the Son of God. When we reach unity through faith and knowledge with the other saints, who believe in the Sonship of Christ, then we become a perfect man in the fullness of Christ.
How badly have those who claim the titles of pastor, teacher, evangelist failed in their calling to bring the saints into true knowledge of God's Son? We now have many within the Church who teach that the Sonship of Christ is a metaphor.
Colossians 1:12-19 (KJV)
12Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light:13Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:14In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:15Who is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of every creature:16For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by him, and for him:17And he is before all things, and by him all things consist.18And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.19For it pleased the Father that in him should all fulness dwell;
It is the Father that calls us out of the kingdom of darkness into the Kingdom of His dear Son. Note the term of endearment used in describing Jesus as the Father's "dear Son". This term of endearment could only be descriptive of a true Father-Son relationship between Jehovah and Jesus. This really exposes the teaching of a metaphorical Sonship as absolutely false. Jesus is God's dear Son.
Verse 15, Jesus is the image of the invisible God. The word "image" comes from the Greek word "eikon" (Strongs 1504) and means "statue, profile, or representation, resemblance:-image."
The Father is invisible to mortal man, those who saw Jehovah in the old testament times saw the Son of God. They could rightly say they saw God as His Son is the express image of the Father. We see a similar description of the Ancient of days (The Father) and Jesus (The Son) in the book of Daniel and the book of Revelation. The Son is not the Father but is the Father's exact representation (image).
When we understand that Jesus is begotten from the Father's substance then we can understand how He is the Father's express image.
Continuing in verse 15, the text says that Jesus is the firstborn of every creature. This alludes to Jesus being begotten (born from) from the Father before any being was created, angel, human or animal. The word "firstborn" comes from the Greek word "prototokos" (Strongs 4416) and means "firstborn, first begotten (-born). The meaning of firstborn is very simple and means exactly what it says in that Jesus is the firstborn of all creation as He came into existence before any other being was made and before the worlds and heavens were created. While humans are made in the image of God, Jesus is the express (exact) image of God.
Verse 16 speaks to Jesus as our creator as the Father created everything through His Son and for His Son.
Verse 17 tells us that Jesus is before all things and that by Him all things consist. Christ is not only supreme over all creation because He is the agent and goal of creation but also because He sustains creation through His Spirit and Word. Jesus Spirit and Word comes from the Father who is the source of all creation (1 Corinthians 8:4-8). By Jesus through the Spirit all things cohere or hold together.
Verse 18, Jesus is the head of the Church. Not one man can ever say they are the head of the Church. That title strictly belongs to the Son of God. This is why the Papacy is antichrist as they try to usurp Jesus Christ as being head of the body of Christ. Paul now demonstrates Christ's supremacy in redemption, noting Christ's authority and headship over the Church. In regards to firstborn from the dead, Christ's resurrection is the guarantee of resurrection for all saints (1 Corinthians 15:20-22). The end result of Christ's work of redemption is His unmistaken supremacy (preeminence).
Verse 19, it pleases the Father that in His Son all the fullness of glory and majesty (Godhead) should dwell. The Son is divinity/diety in fulness
Colossians 2:8-9 (KJV)
8Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ.9For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily.
It is vain philosophy of man that reduces the person of Christ to be less than fully divine.
The word "fulness" comes from the Greek word "pleroma" (Strongs 4138) and means "repletion or completion, i.e. what fills (as contents, supplement, copiousness, multitude), or (objectively) what is filled (as container, performance, period): - which is put in to fill up, piece that filled up, fufilling, full, fulness."
The word "Godhead" comes from the Greek word "theotes" (Strongs 2320) and means "divinity, godhead".
With the understanding of the words "fulness" and "Godhead" we can say with assurance that in Jesus is complete fulness, filled up to the brim divinity and majesty. This means that Jesus has all the divinity of His Father as we see in the text it says "For in Him (Jesus) dwelleth ALL the fulness (completion) of the Godhead (divinity, majesty, glory) bodily."
After understanding what this means we should never lessen the person of Christ. The word "all" comes from the Greek word "pas" (Strongs 3956) and means "thoroughly, whole, whatsoever, whosoever, the whole, all, any, every, ever"
Jesus has ALL (throughly) the divinity (Godhead) of the Father. The difference between the Father and Son is that the Father is unbegotton and the Son is begotten.
John 5:26 (KJV)
26For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself;
Jesus received his divinity and self existent life from the Father. The Son of God possesses the same self existence of the divine nature as the Father, yet this is from the Father, impyling that the Father begat the Son in the fulness of the divine nature.
John 6:57 (KJV)
57As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me.
Jesus lives by the Father who is the Living God. Jesus, who has always been in close intimate fellowship with the Father, lives by Him. If we abide in Jesus, we will live by Him (Jesus) as He lives by the Father. Jesus abides in the Father as He has the fulness of the Father's Godhead in Him (Jesus). If we abide in Christ, we will have the fulness of His Spirit in us (Colossians 1:27).
What about worshipping Jesus? Can we?
John 5:16-23 (KJV)
16And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day.17But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto, and I work.
18Therefore the Jews sought the more to kill him, because he not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was his Father, making himself equal with God.19Then answered Jesus and said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what he seeth the Father do: for what things soever he doeth, these also doeth the Son likewise.20For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things that himself doeth: and he will shew him greater works than these, that ye may marvel.21For as the Father raiseth up the dead, and quickeneth them; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will.22For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son:23That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the Father which hath sent him.
In verse 18, the Jews understood Christ's claim to being the Son of God as making Himself equal with God. This is a very interesting verse as it shows that the Jews knew that God had a divine Son. If Christ was claiming to be the Son of God in an adoptive metaphorical sense, then the Jews would not have been offended as they considered themselves adopted sons ofGod.
Christ claim to Sonship of God was a divine claim not a human claim. The Jews rightly understood Jesus claim as making Himself equal with the Father.
In verse 19 and 20, Jesus tells the Jews that He does nothing on His own and learns what to do from the Father. Everything the Father does Jesus does also. Even though Jesus is equal with God in His divine nature, in position Jesus is subject to the Father. Jesus makes this clear to the Jews right away as the Son gives preference and honour to the Father. Jesus being the humble Son of God points to the Father as the all in all. It's the Father's love for the Son that is the driving force in showing the Son all things. This could only be descriptive of a true Father-Son relationship.
Verse 21 and 22, Just as the Father raiseth up the dead, His Son Jesus Christ does as well hence Lazarus and the dead saints at His second advent. The Father has committed all judgment unto His Son. The Father displays the honour of His Son in appointing Him to execute the divine work of judging all men, so that people must reverence Christ.
Verse 23, we are to honour the Son the same way we honour the Father. Those who don't honour the Son the way they honour the Father are actually dishonoring the Father.
Acts 8:26-39 (KJV)
26And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.27And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship,28Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.29Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.30And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?31And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.32The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth:33In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth.34And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?35Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.36And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?37And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.38And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.39And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.
The above passage in the book of Acts details a conversion story where the minister Philip encounters an Ethiopian eunuch who was an important official being of the Queen's treasury. This is a beautiful conversion story in the new testament, where a minister preaches the gospel to someone and they get converted.
Verse 26, an angel of Jehovah spoke to Philip sending him on what would be a divine appointment.
Verse 27-29, Philip comes across the Ethiopian eunuch who was reading Isaiah 53 concerning the Messiah of Israel. The Ethiopian eunuch had come to Jerusalem to worship and was returning to his homeland. The Holy Spirit said unto Philip to go to the Ethiopians chariot. His chariot was likely part of a greater convoy. This shows that the Holy Spirit has personality as it speaks.
Verse 30-31, Philip obeyed the voice of the Holy Spirit immediately as he ran to the chariot where the Ethiopian was reading the prophet Isaiah. Philip asked the eunuch if he understood the scroll of Isaiah. Humbly, the Ethiopian told Philip that he needed guidance in understanding the prophecy. What a humble man. Here was this official of the Queen's government and yet he was humble enough to admit that he wasn't clear on Isaiah 53. We can all learn from the humility of the Ethiopian eunuch. Unfortunately many today especially within the professed Church exhibit arrogance and think they know everything or they are too lazy to study diligently for themselves the precious truths of the bible.
Verse 32-35, the Ethiopian was reading Isaiah 53:7-8 when Philip had joined him. The eunuch asked Philip who the prophecy was about. Philip then continued from verse 8 of Isaiah 53 and preached Jesus to the Ethiopian.
Verse 36, the chariot of the Ethiopian with Philip on it, was making it's way back home (Ethiopia). What comes next is vital in understanding what deems us fit for salvation and baptism. They came upon a body of water and the Ethiopian asks the question:
"what doth hinder me to be baptized?"
Notice there is no sinners prayer, but a desire to be baptized. Baptism is the sign and seal of someone being born again not a sinners prayer. Baptism represents our leaving the kingdom of this world and entrance into the Kingdom of Jehovah God. It symbolizes our dying with Christ to this world and resurrecting with Him to newness of life. So the Ethiopian asks the all important life saving question and Philip retorts:
"If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest"
Believe what? Remember in verse 35 of Acts 8, Philip expounded on Isaiah 53. This passage doesn't detail exactly what Philip said to the Ethiopian at that point of their dialogue, however when we hear the Ethiopian's response to Philip's question, we know exactly Philip preached to the eunuch.
What does the Ethiopian confess that then makes him fit for baptism and thereby entrance into the Kingdom of Jehovah God and Jesus Christ?
"I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God"
The above statement by the Ethiopian eunuch is forever a requirement for salvation and baptism. There is no getting around it. Philip like Peter, like Paul, John and many others preached that Jesus is the Son of God. Philip was simply preaching the truth to the eunuch in accordance with what was already established as the absolute foundation of the Church forever (Matthew 16:13-20).
If Philip had preached that Jesus was anything other than the Son of God, he would have preached another gospel and another Jesus. How today's false teachers in the SDA GC denomination get away with denying the Sonship of Christ is beyond me! Don't listen to these heretics and listen to true men of God like Philip who preached the Son of God to eunuch who was then converted and baptized.
Believing that Jesus is the Son of God is required for salvation and baptism and we see that here in this passage. Did you know that it is not required for someone to confess that Jesus is the Son of God in order to be baptized into the SDA GC Denomination? They are preaching another Jesus and not the Jesus that the Apostles preached to the lost, which is the Jesus that is the only begotten Son of God.
If you didn't confess Jesus as the Son of God at your baptism, pray to the Father and see if He would lead to being baptized again with the proper understanding that Jesus is the Son of God.
Did Philip correct Jesus and tell him "sorry, but Jesus is actually the eternal God or Jesus is actually "God the Son" or that Jesus is the second member of the trinity? No absolutely not!! Then the Ethiopian commanded the chariot to stand still and he was then baptized by Philip via full immersion as verse 39 says "when they were come up out of the water".
Confession that Jesus is the Son of God is required for salvation and baptism not confessing that you believe in a trinity god.
Verse 39 continues as we see the Spirit of Jehovah catching (harpazo meaning caught up) Philip away. After his understanding and confession that Jesus is the Son of God, the Ethiopian rejoices as he is now a member of the Kingdom of God's dear Son. When you come to the understanding that Jesus truly is God's literal only begotten Son, joy and happiness follow. You then have a true understanding of Jesus identity and his love for us, along with the Father's, comes through more than ever. The trinity as well as the tri theist doctrines doen't hold a candle to the Father-Son relationship between Jehovah and Jesus.
Now that we have touched on some scriptures in regards to the Father and Son, let's look at the Holy Spirit. One of the most interesting passages of scripture about the Holy Spirit is in Romans 8, let's go there:
Romans 8:8-34 (KJV)
8So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.9But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.10And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness.11But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.12Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. 13For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live.14For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.15For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.16The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:17And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.18For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us.19For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.20For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope,21Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.22For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.23And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.24For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for?25But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it.26Likewise 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.27And 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.28And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.29For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren.30Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.31What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?32He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?33Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth.34Who 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.
Verses 8-9, If we deny the flesh and live in the Spirit then it is God who lives in us by His Spirit hence 'the Spirit of God". The phrase "Spirit of God" denotes possession meaning it is God's very own Spirit (mind, breath and wind) that He possesses and His Spirit dwells in us. It is not another being called "God the Holy Spirit" which denotes a title. So if we are in the Spirit we not only have the Spirit of God dwelling in us but also the Spirit of Christ (verse 9). If we don't have the Spirit of Christ we are not His (Christ). So the progression of the believer is to live in the Spirit which means that the Spirit of Jehovah God dwells in us and thereby also means we have the Spirit of Christ.
Some may say there are three Spirits however Ephesians 4;4-6 says we have One Spirit. There is not 3 seperate Spirit's but only Spirit which is the Holy Spirit of the Father (God) and Son (Christ). Remember the Hebrew and Greek definition for Spirit is "mind, breath and wind". The Holy Spirit is the mind, breath and wind of the Father and Son.
Verse 10, Paul says if Christ is in us, then our bodies are dead to sin because the Spirit that is in us is life because of righteousness. Who's Spirit is in us? Paul made that clear at the beginning of the verse:
"if Christ is in us"
It must be Christ living in us if we are to live in the Spirit. The Spirit of Christ is the Spirit of Righteousness as He is Jehovah our Righteousness. Colossians 1:27 says that Christ in us is the hope of glory. Remember, we only have one Spirit living in us not three. Since Christ has the Father in Him when have Christ in us, we automatically have the Father living in us. That's why true Christian's that have the Holy Spirit dwelling in them, have the Spirit of God and Christ.
Back to verse 9, Everyone who belongs to Christ has the Holy Spirit which is also called the Spirit of God and the Spirit of Christ. The Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father and the Son coming from the Father through the mediation of Christ (John 14:26, 16:7, Titus 3:5-6).
Verse 11, it was God the Father's very own Spirit that raised up Christ from the dead as the text says "the Spirit of Him" again denoting possession that the Holy Spirit is the Father's very own set apart mind, breath and wind. Though sin has brought death to our mortal bodies, the Holy Spirit of Him (The Father) hence "by His Spirit" that dwells in us (verse 9 and 11) will bring life, applying the power of Christ's resurrection.
Verses 12-14, it is the Spirit that allows us to deny the flesh. If we deny the flesh that means are led by the Spirit of God. Notice how the Spirit and Spirit of God are used interchangeably along with the Spirit of Christ. That's because they comprise one Spirit. Again, the verbiage used in reference to the Holy Spirit is "the Spirit of God" denoting that God the Father posseses the Holy Spirit meaning it is His very set apart (Holy) Spirit (mind, breath and wind).
Verses 15-17, these three verses show the Godhead Trio at work in the heart of the believer. The Holy Spirit is called the Spirit of adoption because it causes to cry out to our Heavenly Father as we become adopted sons of the Kingdom when we become born again. One cannot become born again without the Holy Spirit (John 3). The Spirit itself bears witness to our spirit that we are the children of God. Remember, that our is not a seperate person from ourselves but it is our mind, character and presence. It is the same with the Spirit of God and Christ in that the Holy Spirit is not a seperate distinct person from them but rather it is the Father and Son's mind, presence and power. The Holy Spirit in this instance is called "It" rather than "He", both designations are appropriate. Here the word Spirit here is described as neuter because spirit is a neuter noun in greek. However, the personality of the Holy Spirit is clear in other scriptures (verse 27, John 14:16-17, 26; 16:13).
The Holy Spirit confirms to us that we are heirs of Jehovah God and joint heirs with His only begotten Son Jesus Christ. The work of the Holy Spirit is vital and essential to becoming born again into the family of Jehovah.
Forwarding to verse 18-22, Paul compares the sufferings of this present age with the eternal glory awaiting the saints. The whole creation awaits the glorious renovation when the sons of God are manifested in their resurrection bodies. The creation is personified as groaning under the curse brought by sin and awaiting the transformation at the last day, the day when the bodies of the redeemed will be glorified (Acts 3:21; 2 Peter 3:12-13).
Verse 23, Christians have the beginning of the new creation within them by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the indwelling Jehovah (Father and Son). They groan for the full inheritance that includes the resurrection body. This is called the adoption because it is the full enjoyment of the privileges of the children of Jehovah. Firstfruits of the Spirit. The Holy Spirit within us is the confirmation that we are a new creation in Christ Jesus.
Verses 24-27, we wait for our full inheritance as sons of God with patience as we hope for what is not physically seen in the present. The Spirit helps our infirmities and the Spirit itself (again describing the Spirit as neuter) makes intercession for us. Often times, we don't know what exactly to pray for but thankfully the Holy Spirit intercedes for us by better perfectly communicating our prayers to the Father. The Holy Spirit acts as an advocate (intercessor) who both speaks for his client and instructs him how to speak. We see that in verse 34 of Romans 8, that Christ is our advocate. Christ is our intercessor (advocate) as our divine High Priest. In 1 Timothy 2:5, we are told that we have one mediator between God and ourselves, the man Christ Jesus.
1 Timothy 2:5 (KJV)
5For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;
The word mediator is rendered from the Greek word "mesites" (Strongs 3316) and means "a go between, i.e . simply an internunciator, or by (implication) a reconciler (intercessor):- mediator."
The word mediator has the same meaning as intercessor and advocate. We are told in 1 Timothy 2:5 that we have only one mediator (advocate, intercessor) and it is Christ.
1John 2:1 (KJV)
1My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:
John the beloved calls Jesus Christ our advocate with the Father. The word "advocate" comes from the Greek word "parakletos" (Strongs 3875) and means "intercessor, consoler, advocate, comforter".
The word advocate in the greek can also be rendered intercessor and comforter. The Holy Spirit is called these things as we have read in Romans 8 (intercessor) and in John 15:26-27:
26But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:27And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning.
The Holy Spirit is our comforter. The word comforter comes from the same greek word that advocate comes from which is "parakletos", comforter and advocate are one and the same. Remember, that John the beloved called Jesus our advocate i.e. comforter which also can be rendered as intercessor and mediator. We are told in 1 Timothy 2:5 that we only have one mediator and that is Christ Jesus. So if the Holy Spirit is our mediator as well yet we are told that we only have one mediator, what gives?
Remember, that earlier in the book of Romans, that the Holy Spirit is called the Spirit of Christ. The word Spirit comes from the Greek word "pneuma" and means "a current of air, i.e. a breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e. (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital principle, mental disposition, life, mind".
So according to the definition of the word "Spirit", the Holy Spirit is the Set Apart (Holy) breath, power, mind and life of Jesus Christ hence the Spirit of Christ.
Back to verses 24-27 of Romans 8, if Christ is the only mediator/intercessor/comforter we have then it is clear that the Spirit that intercedes to the Father on our behalf is the very Spirit of Jesus Christ.
Verse, 27, "He that searcheth the hearts", the "He" in this text is the Father and He knows what is the mind (inclination, purpose) of the Spirit. Remember, that one of definition's of Spirit is "mind". The Father knows the mind of the Spirit of His Son. In this context, it is the Spirit of Christ that makes intercession for us and the Father knows His Son hence he knows the mind of the Spirit of His Son. The Spirit makes intercession for all the saints according to the Father's will. Is the Spirit mentioned here, the Spirit of Christ or another divine being? Remember, the bible says we only one mediator between God and men. If the Holy Spirit is another divine being then that would mean we have two mediators, however if the Holy Spirit is the actual Spirit of Christ meaning the Son of God's breath, mind and power then it stays in harmony with the biblical teaching that we only have one mediator.
The word intercession comes from the Greek word "huperentugchano" (Strongs 5241) and means "intercede in behalf of, make intercession for".
We will see in a little bit that indeed it is Christ not another being that makes intercession for us.
Verses 28-30, in these verses we see the Sovereignty of Jehovah God in that we are called according to His purpose. All things work together for good to them that love God. We are predestined and known beforehand by the Most High God to be conformed to the image of His Son Jesus Christ. We didn't choose God, He chose us. All credit for salvation goes to the Father and Son by the working of the Holy Spirit.
Jehovah called us and justified us reckoning to our account righteousness by faith in His Son Jesus Christ. He glorified us rendering us full of honor as we experienced the new birth. We as believers are the called, the elect, the chosen, the predestinated, the foreknown of Jehovah God Almighty. Salvation doesn't just happen, we are called by God to this and all glory goes to Him and His Son. Many are called, few are chosen. The word predestinated means pre ordained. We as believers were pre-ordained before the foundation of the world to this salvation.
Verse 31, since we are the called and elect of Jehovah God it should give us confidence that He is for us and no one can lay any charge against us. Not a pastor, not a enemy, not even another brother or sister and of course the devil.
Verse 32, How much does Jehovah love us? He spared not His only begotten Son so that we may have eternal life. This verse clearly describes a literal Father-Son relationship between Jehovah and Jesus. The Pastor's that teach this relationship is a role play are false teachers. This giving and delivering up of His Son is exactly how we know the extent in which our Father loves us. Without this being a real Father-Son relationship, then we can't really know how much the Father loves us as in this case it would be Him giving up another eternal God instead of His only begotten Son. If God gave up His real Son, which is His most cherished possession, for us and spared Him not then it gives us the confidence that He will freely give us all things. Without this real sacrifice of God's real Son, we are still in the dark concerning receiving freely from the Father. Thank God that the heretics, that teach the antichrist role playing Father-Son relationship, are wrong.
Verse 33, Paul, after telling us that because God gave up His Son for us and because of that will freely give us all things, says that who can lay any charge to the elect of Jehovah? This is a rhetorical question as the answer is clearly "no one can"!!!!
The word "elect" comes from the Greek word "eklektos" (Strongs 1588) and means "favorite, chosen, elect".
Did you catch that? As a born again believer in the Son of God you have been chosen by the Father and you are His favorite. You are favored of God!!!!!! You were predestinated, fore-ordained, called, chosen and elected to be born again and thereby conformed to the image of Christ. This right here should give you the confidence to rebuke the enemy and those he uses to accuse you. There is not a man alive on God's green earth that can tell you that you are not the elect and favored of Jehovah God. So when the accusers of the brethren or even those called brethren condemn you because you don't live up to their ideal of a Christian, remember this verse. This verse isa powerful weapon against those believers who think they are the gate keepers to eternal life. It is Jehovah who justifies not man!!!
Verse 34, Paul again ask rhetorically, who is he that condemneth? Paul then focuses on the Son as the justifier as it is He alone who died for us and thereby no man can condemn us. Many in Christendom try to bully their views on others and then condemn those that don't go along with them. I say to these self appointed Pope's, are you willing to die for your brother like Christ did? If not, then silence is golden!
Not only did Christ die for us but He rose from the dead and is now at the right hand of God making intercession for us. Remember, in the earlier verses, we were told that it is the Spirit that makes intercession for us. Now we are told that it is the Son of God. Remember, we only one mediator so we have to harmonize this. There is no contradiction here. When we understand that the Spirit that makes intercession for us is the actual Spirit of Christ then this makes perfect harmony with verse 34 in which we are told Christ is at the right hand of God interceding for us and earlier that the Spirit makes intercession for us. In verses 8-11, we see that the Spirit, the Spirit of God and the Spirit of Christ are used interchangeably. So the Spirit that makes intercession for us is the actual divine Spirit of Christ not another being. Remember, 1 Timothy 2:5 says we only have one mediator between God and ourselves not two.
John 14: 15-26 (KJV)
15If ye love me, keep my commandments.16And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;17Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.18I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.19Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also.20At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and ye in me, and I in you.21He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.22Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?23Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.24He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me.25These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you.26But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
Verse 16, Jesus says that his Father will give the apostles another comforter and that comforter would be with them forever. Many have used this scripture to teach that the Holy Spirit is a distinct divine being. Let's look closely and see exactly what Jesus meant as "another comforter".
If the Holy Spirit isn't a distinct being apart from the Father and the Son, why would Jesus use the word "another"?
Let's look at 1 John 2:1 again!
1 John 2:1 (KJV)
2 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:
Jesus Christ is called our advocate which is rendered from the same greek word that comforter is rendered from which is "parakletos". As you can see from above the definition of parakletos is comforter and advocate.
So why does Jesus say the Holy Spirit will be another comforter if indeed Jesus fits the same description as being a comforter and advocate? The answer is rather easy, the Holy Spirit is Jesus divested of humanity. Jesus could no longer be with the disciples in person as his preistly duties at the right hand of the Father awaited him. So in his stead, the Father sends the Holy Spirit in Jesus name to the disciples so that Jesus very own Spirit would be with them forever.
Remember the word Spirit in the greek and Hebrew means mind, breath and wind. It does not mean a "being". The Holy Spirit that the Father sent to the apostles was the very mind (wisdom), breath (life) and wind (presence, power) of Jesus that originates from Jehovah God. It was the Spirit of God and Christ that was sent to the apostles.
Ephesians 4:4-6 says there is only One Spirit so the Holy Spirit is the same as the Spirit of God and the Spirit of Christ.
Verse 17 of John 14 clears any doubt as to the identity of the Holy Spirit. Jesus says the world cannot receive the Holy Spirit because they don't see or know him. Look at what Jesus says next "but ye know him: for he dwelleth with you"Wait a minute! I thought the Holy Spirit hadn't been sent to the apostles yet. What does Jesus mean by "ye know him: for he dwelleth with you"? The answer is obvious, Jesus is talking about himself as he is the one who has been with the disciples not anyone else.
Look at Jesus following words "and shall be in you". Let's look at Colossians 1:27 for further proof on the identity of the Holy Spirit:
Colossians 1:27 (KJV)
27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
Clearly when Jesus says the Holy Spirit shall be in them, he is talking about himself which is confirmed by the above passage in Colossians. In fact, we are told that Christ in us is the hope of glory. Christ can only be in us when we have his Spirit dwelling in us, which of course is the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is Christ set apart (Holy) Spirit (Power, presence, life and mind).
Verse 18 gives us another confirmation as to the identity of the Holy Spirit. Look at Jesus words "I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you." Wait a minute! I thought Jesus is at the right hand of the Father. Since Jesus can't be present here on earth physically, he comes to us as the comforter which is his Holy Spirit. So now we know what Jesus means when he says "another comforter", it's himself divested of humanity. The Holy Spirit is the means by which Jesus comes to us and doesn't leave us comfortless. The Holy Spirit of course originates with the Father and is given to Jesus and then given to us his brethen. It's the Father and Son's very own Spirit which is their power, mind, presence and lifeforce.
John 14:26 (KJV)
26 But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.
The above passage was fufilled at Pentecost and prophesied in Joel chapter 2
Joel 2:27-29 [ASV]
[27]And ye shall know that I am in the midst of Israel, and that I am Jehovah your God, and there is none else; and my people shall never be put to shame.
[28]And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:
[29]and also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my Spirit.
Note that Jehovah is the one who poured out His Spirit on all flesh. This confirms that Jehovah in this passage is the Father as Jesus said it was his Father that would send the Holy Spirit to the disciples.
The Holy Spirit guides us into all truth. We always have to rely on the Spirit and not put our trust in man.
John 15:26-27 (KJV)
26 But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:
27 And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning.
Jehoshua confirms that the Holy Spirit proceeds from the Father (Jehovah) as prophesied about in Joel chapter 2. In reading Chapter 2, we learn that the Spirit that proceeds from the Father (Jehovah) as prophesied about in Joel chapter 2. In reading Chapter 2, we learn that the Spirit that proceeds from the Father is not another divine being but rather the Father's very own Spirit (power, presence and wisdom). Isaiah 11 clearly defines what the Holy Spirit is.
Isaiah 11:1-3 [ASV]
[1]And there shall come forth a shoot out of the stock of Jesse, and a branch out of his roots shall bear fruit.
[2]And the Spirit of Jehovah shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of Jehovah.
[3]And his delight shall be in the fear of Jehovah; and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither decide after the hearing of his ears;
As we can see from the above passage, the Holy Spirit is the very qualities that the Father possesses not another divine being. The Holy Spirit is Jehovah's counsel, knowledge, might, understanding, wisdom. The Holy Spirit is Jehovah's very own personality just as my spirit as a human is my very own personality not another person apart from me.
The Holy Spirit testifies of Jesus, so even if you believe that the Holy Spirit is a distinct divine being apart from the Father and the Son he is not to be glorified and worshipped as many in Christendom are now doing.
The Holy Spirit bears witness to those who are in Christ. The Holy Spirit also convicts the world of sin leading some to repentance.
John 16:7-13 (KJV)
7 Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.
8 And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment:
9 Of sin, because they believe not on me;
10 Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see me no more;
11 Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.
12 I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.
13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.
Verse 7, Jesus tells the disciples that in order for the comforter to come he has to go away. Jesus uses the word expedient which means "to profit, to be profitable, be better". Why would Jesus have to go away so that the Holy Spirit could come to the disciples? Because the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Christ which he sends to us. Remember that Christ in us is the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27). As long as Christ was still on earth as a man he couldn't send his Spirit to us. He had to glorified and ascend to heaven at the Father's right hand. This is why he told the disciples it would be better for him to go away.
Verse 8-11, remember Jesus said he is the way, the truth and the life. The Holy Spirit has the same function that Christ did while he was on the earth. Jesus testified of the world's evil works, called the world to repentance and gave testimony that he was the true Son of God and that he would be with the Father in heaven. Jesus warned of the coming judgment and that satan has already been judged. The Holy Spirit does the same.
Verse 12-13, Jesus told the disciples that the Holy Spirit would guide them into all truth and that the Holy Spirit would not speak of himself. Remember, Jesus said that he came to glorify the Father and not himself and that he doesn't speak his own words but the Father's words. The Holy Spirit has the same function because it is Jesus very own Spirit so it makes sense that the Spirit of Christ would not speak of himself but rather speak the Father's words. In many of today's churches they ignore this and worship the Holy Spirit as God. They even made up a title called "God the Holy Spirit". Some go so far as worshipping and praying to the Holy Spirit which is idolatry.
John 14:23 (KJV)
23Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.
This verse is in context about the Holy Spirit being sent to the disciples and Jesus tells them that if they keep His words, that Him (Jesus) and the Father will come and make their abode with them.
The word abode comes from the Greek word "mone" (Strongs 3438) and means "a staying, i.e. (the act or the place): - abode, mansion"
When Jesus tells the disciples that He and the Father will make their abode with them, He is telling them that they will make their dwelling place in them and with them. Being that this is in context with the Holy Spirit being sent to them, we can safely conclude that the Holy Spirit is the agency in which this dwelling of the Father and Son in the believer takes place. Again, this proves that the Holy Spirit is not another being but rather the very Spirit (mind, breath and wind) of the Father and Son.
proves that the Holy Spirit is not another being but rather the very Spirit (mind, breath and wind) of the Father and Son.
Revelation 5:6 (KJV)
6And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne and of the four beasts, and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain, having seven horns and seven eyes, which are the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth.
Here we see Jesus pictured as the Lamb of God with seven horns and seven eyes representing the seven Spirits of God sent forth into all the earth. The number represents perfection and the Spirit of God is a manifold Spirit of perfection. We see a description of God's manifold Holy Spirit in Isaiah 11. Notice here in Revelation that theHoly Spirit is called "The Spirit of God" denoting possession in that it is God's very own Spirit (mind, breath and wind). God's manifold Holy Spirit rests on the Lamb of God. This shows that the Holy Spirit proceeds (pours out) from the Father to the Son. The Holy Spirit upon the Son is represented as horns and eyes.
Horns represent power and eyes represent wisdom.
1 Corinthians 1:24 (KJV)
24But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.
Jesus Christ is the power and wisdom of God. What an interesting verse. The Holy Spirit upon Christ is the Father's very own power and wisdom (Isaiah 11). Just as the Holy Spirit proceeds from Father to Son it then proceeds from the Son to the earth (sent forth into all the earth) This is eternal procession. Notice the divine order as the Holy Spirit is the Father's very own Spirit that proceeds from Him to Jesus and then proceeds from Jesus to the earth. The Holy Spirit in Jesus, is the Father in Him and the Holy Spirit in us, is the Father and Son in us. If the Holy Spirit is God's power (horns) and wisdom (eyes) that rest upon Jesus and if Jesus is the power and wisdom of God, then obviously when we get the Holy Spirit we get the very Spirit of Christ and not the Spirit of another being.
John 20:21-23 (KJV)
21Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.22And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:23Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained.
This text makes it crystal as to what constitutes the Holy Spirit. Jesus breathed on the disciples the Holy Spirit. Does it make any sense that Jesus breathed on them another divine being or His actual Holy breath. Remember, the word Spirit means "mind, breath and wind". When Jesus breathed on the disciples. He breathed His own Set apart (Holy) life (breath) into them. This makes perfect harmony with other scriptures that call the Holy Spirit the Spirit of Christ.
The Three Angels' of Revelation 14:6-12
Fear Jehovah, and give glory to him!
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